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Published: February 7, 2003

Written by Bryan Krantz

The letter began.... "We are delighted to accept your mare YOU'LLBENMYHEART for breeding to Sky Classic for this 2003 breeding season... signed Clifford Berry Stallion Manager Pin Oak Stud." And the door closed on a racing career that had begun with such great promise. Six races etched in my mind like they were the first steps of a child. The first four races and wins were as though divine intervention had stamped this filly for greatness. Her next start on Kentucky Oaks Day in Louisville allowed for the mind to imagine what the major players on the stage the next day would feel. Even now when the mental replay of the Edgewood Stakes comes to mind it forces a rendering of what almost might have been and what has come to pass. Nothing has changed. She has the irrefutable quality necessary to prove her own greatness either as a racehorse or as a broodmare. The other door now opens for her to pass on to her offspring the qualities she possesses. Even during her convalescence, people who have never seen her offer compliments of her physical resiliency and her sensibility. The good ones have an understanding of their surroundings and can distinguish themselves by an uncanny ability to reason things out. When this is combined with an undeniable will to win it marks class of the highest order. This class is the essence of You'llbeinmyheart.

Aside from You'llbeinmyheart's legacy of memories and potential legacy of future equine accomplishments there is another legacy her racing career has generated. A pool of funding was created from 10 percent of her purse winnings. These funds have been dedicated for use by St. Catherine's school. In the coming school year six needy students' tuition will be provided by this legacy from You'llbeinmyheart's racing career. We were proud of her as a winner on the track and this ability to help families in need is a special contribution to the local community we and our children live in.

Another door seems to be opening, perhaps another chapter from the same book. Longue Vue's second foal, Destiny Calls, competed in a training race this past Wednesday. Perhaps there is a pattern here...

The six length margin of victory sure is reminiscent of You'llbeinmyheart's first two races. There is a certain sweet irony to the first opportunity for Destiny Calls to run – a race for Louisiana-bred 3-year-old maiden fillies under allowance conditions on Friday, February 14, or Valentine's Day. If we get to run on Valentine's Day it could be the opening of a door on a whole new adventure. In the words of Phil Collins... When Destiny Calls you have to be strong.

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