Hooray for the long shot!

Nobody considered Mine That Bird to be a threat on Derby day. The commentators never said more than just his name; just to acknowledge that he was in the race. He was a long shot with odds at 50-1. He cost only $9500, and his trainer drove him to the Kentucky Derby himself with a small trailer and his pickup truck.

He was a small, bay gelding with only a tiny little white fleck on his face. His previous American races were unremarkable, and although he was a Champion on Canada's racetracks, he was not viewed as a contender for this Derby.

But the stout little horse with the cowboy trainer proved them all wrong. With the great Calvin Borel as his jockey, he squeaked by on the rail in the last few seconds to snag the roses. He surged forward with such speed and power, he left spectators speechless. He appeared out of nowhere...

The little bay horse with the calm demeanor and the face of a kid's friendly 4-H pony just blew everyone's doors off.

Incredible.

The commentator seemed to be checking his notes--who's that? It's Mine That Bird? Really?



As Mine That Bird trotted around in the post parade with his ears perked, I couldn't help but think he looked a bit like Seabiscuit...and it seems he has that Seabiscuit heart, too.

Congrats to Mine That Bird!

Bonus: Here's the happy horse lovin' jockey Calvin Borel winning the Kentucky Oaks with Rachel Alexandra on May 1:



No whip, just heart and teamwork. When Calvin pats the great filly's neck right before her brilliant finish, I couldn't help but tear up a little.

Calvin Borel, you're the man!

Congrats all around.