What's in a Name?

I chose “Big Event Blog” not because it’s launching Kentucky Derby week or because all I will write about are Triple Crown- and Breeders’ Cup-type events, but because to me, everything about horse racing is a Big Event.

Granted, the Kentucky Derby is the biggest event of all, and it’s no coincidence that Thoroughbred Times is launching this blog a week before that event, but any race can be a Big Event.

Sure, it’s nice to win one in front of a larger crowd or pick winners when more people are paying attention, but a winner at 4-to-1 pays $10 regardless of the class of race, and I’ve seen some pretty happy owners head to the winner’s circle after a maiden claiming race at Thistledown (my native track).

My blog’s picture—me alongside Hoosier Park mascot Hoosier Buddy at the Indiana Derby—plays on my Big Event theme (as well as recognizes my love for mascots). The Anderson, Indiana, track gets a nice crowd and decent handle for its big race, but it’s nothing compared to even a weekday at Saratoga, Keeneland, or Del Mar. Still, the biggest event at Hoosier is indeed a Big Event.

So thanks for joining me for Kentucky Derby week and the Triple Crown and Breeders’ Cup seasons, but don’t think that things will slow down around here just because I’m not jetting off to racing’s next Big Event.

A day trip this summer to Ellis Park for cold beer and grilled hamburgers during the races and fried chicken in Haubstaudt at night? That’s a Big Event. Using a Monday afternoon off after working Sunday to play the races from Finger Lakes? That’s a Big Event.

Going to Wendy’s for lunch? I’ll spare you the details of that.

When we talk again I'll be in Louisville.