Page 39 of Something Stronger
“Let’s not get ahead of ourselves.” Craig sighed. “Alright Jim, let’s get him in the gates.” The jockey directed Lightning down to the practice gates. As they were starting to enter, he reared up. “He’s not used to it. It’s new. Just give him a sec,” Craig called. Lightning settled and Jim directed him. Issac came around and closed the gate, locking them in place.
“You ready for this?” Craig looked over at both of us.
“Ready or not. Let’s see what we got.” Issac pulled out a stopwatch and gripped it in his hand. “Alright.” He nodded to Craig, who held the rope to release the gate. Craig lifted his arm to signal to Jim that they were going to go and we all stood in anticipation. When Craig released the gate, the bell rang and the gate sprung open. Lightning took off at breakneck speed,hugging the rail in the process. Craig smiled as he watched the pair thunder along the track.
Hallie leaned farther over and closed her eyes. “Do you hear that?” she whispered.
“Hear what?” Amy closed her eyes, too.
“The way his hooves hit. He’s in perfect sync. They’re coming around the final turn.” She still had her eyes closed but she was going through the commentary as if she were watching. “It’s the final stretch. He just let him go.”
Craig stopped the watch as Lightning crossed the finish line, and he showed it to Issac. “Sir, I believe we’ll go to the Derby.” He grinned.
“We’re going to the Derby.” Issac clapped as Jim came over with Lightning. He was prancing around as if showing off.
“What’dya think, sir?” Jim hopped down.
“I think we need to get enough points that we can go to the Derby.” He chuckled. “Let’s get this firecracker registered for some points races.” He smacked Craig’s shoulder.
“You got it, sir.” He nodded. “How do you feel about letting Maverick stud the new mare? Think we could end up with two winners?”
Issac looked over at Hallie. “I think this one is going to make that call since she’ll be taking over eventually. She’s got the knack and who am I to second-guess that?” He flung his arm around Hallie before smiling at me. “Think you better go shopping for some more hats. We’re going to be busy this year.” He winked before his whooped with excitement. “We’re going to the Derby!”
The End