On Fire Baby

Tomorrow is ladies’ day at Churchill Downs and by saying that, I mean that it’s The Kentucky Oaks, which is an all-filly race. So, girls rule on Oaks Day!

If you’re heading out to the track to watch the Run for the Lillies, I have a horse to recommend: On Fire Baby. Honestly, I don’t know a lot about how well this horse has fared in other races, but Jockey Joe Johnson, who will ride On Fire Baby in the Oaks, came to my daughter’s school yesterday and spoke to her first grade class. He wore his jockey silks and handed out autographed stickers and button pins. So, as you can imagine, Miss E. is all about On Fire Baby and I greatly appreciate Mr. Johnson taking the time to talk to the kids.

In addition, On Fire Baby is considered an ambassador for Horses and Hope, a program that helps those who work on the backside at the track get cancer screenings. In a recent TV interview, Baby’s trainer, Anita Cauley said "Backside workers don't get a chance to go to doctors or get these appointments set up. Their schedule is very hectic.” And, in most cases, the workers don’t have insurance. So, the Horses for Hope program provides free mammograms and other breast cancer resources to horse industry workers and their families. The Kentucky Oaks has become known as a day to commemorate breast cancer survivors and attendees are encouraged to wear pink to support the cause. Another great reason to cheer on Team On Fire Baby.

Also, On Fire Baby is on Facebook! Her team is trying to get 1,000 “Likes” before Oaks Day, so if you have a chance, stop by her FB page, give her a thumbs-up and check out this beautiful filly.

Ladies, if you're going to the Oaks tomorrow, be sure to wear pink to support the cause. 

Gents, you can get in on the action, too, with a pink tie. And, be sure to enjoy the traditional drink of the Oaks, a Lilly, while cheering on the fillies. Go, Baby, Go!

Images from kentuckyderby.com and On Fire Baby's FB page