Well, racing has finally returned to Laurel Park for its annual fall festival, including the Maryland Million on October 6. Last year's Classic winner Eighttofasttocatch returned from a summer freshening and has his sights on defending his crown in the Maryland Million feature. We were disappointed in the result in the Japan Racing Association Stakes but not his effort, he led late and just couldn't stave off the closers. No problem. The veteran seems to be training with the same amount of flourish and I'm anxious to get him back on the dirt for the Maryland Million.

Hidden Ball Trick, a filly I've always been high on, won her return, holding on by a nose to win a tough turf race earlier in September. Hopefully, she'll continue to flourish on the turf this fall.

Looking forward to a strong fall meet with some 2-year-olds gearing up for their debuts as well. I just returned from Keeneland where we added two yearlings, offspring of Touch Gold and Jump Start, they are already in Florida, learning the trade.

See you at the Maryland Million.