Who IS the Luv Gov?

by Kim Thomas

Bless his heart, this guy has been through a lot of adversity, mud has been slung upon him and yet he perseveres, this Luv Gov.

No, not Elliot Spitzer, but the 3-year-old colt that is owned and bred by MaryLou Whitney, who is often more remembered for her condescension toward the working class folk here in Kentucky as much as she is remembered for her fundraisers in the name of philanthropy. She did marry a racing legend and is credited, however, with racing BIRDSTONE, who is the sire of MINE THAT BIRD. As an 83 year old lady married to a 44 year old former Ididerod competitor, she did not necessarily spend a lot of time pining over her late husband, C.V. Whitney, but I can't be too harsh on her. Every woman dreams of finding her almost 40 years younger sled-driving soulmate, doesn't she? I'm gonna catch grief for these remarks, I know, but MaryLou can take it, or pay someone to take it for her.

Okay back to Baltimore and the horse who will be put to the ultimate test on Saturday. Yes, he's been through a lot, but it seems as if he's moving into his prime albeit a little later than his foal-mates. Luv Gov had a tough year as a 2-year-old, but winter seemed to mature this little rascal as beginning in January, he came out of the cold to place in three races in a row, then actually won a race by over six lengths at Churchill on Derby Day.

Since his earnings only total $62,896, Luv Gov (Ten Most Wanted--City of Silver) will be another longshot to watch. With Jamie Theriot on top and D. Wayne Lukas in his training corner, Luv Gov has a better than decent shot at winning the Preakness, having shown he can run the long distance. In fact his last 'short' race was back in August of 2008, when he came in 4th at Saratoga in a six furlonger. (Furlonger...I know that's not a word, but it should be ;-)

pray for peace,
Kimmy