Larry Jones is looking good with the Ladies.

The horse racing world was introduced to charismatic trainer Larry Jones last year as he guided Hard Spun through a successfull Triple Crown campaign followed by a strong fall finish. He does not have the typical look of the trainers one is used to seeing on the big race scene in their suits and ties. He is recognizable in his cowboy hat and decorated cowboy dress jacket along with the customary jeans and boots with a broad smile to finish off the look. The thing is, this is not a put on, this is Larry , as down to earth and straight forward a horseman and character as you will find. He can also be found riding some of his charges, as he did regularly aboard Hard Spun, and Larry is not exactly jockey size . The expression "hands on horse trainer" has a picture of Larry Jones next to it. As a member of the media , I always find Larry refreshing to interview in that he answers questions directly, truthfully and usually with just enough heart felt humor to remind us not to take ourselves too seriously. But don't be fooled , he is as serious about his horses as the day is long and as competitive as any trainer on the circuit.
This year it is all about the fillies in the Jones barn. With Proud Spell, Eight Belles and Maren's Meadow he has three legitimate Oaks candidates and Proud Spell and Eight Belles have even been nominated to the Triple Crown just in case. Proud Spell was an easy winner over previously undefeated champion Indian Blessing in the Fair Grounds Oaks and is pointing to the Ashland Stakes at Keeneland where she is likely to face Country Star , the unofficial leader of the girls. Eight Belles is under consideration for the Arkansas Derby against the boys or more likely the Fantasy Stakes where she will be a heavy favorite off her dominating win in the Honeybee Stakes. Maren's Meadow , the winner of the Bourbonette Stakes is a possibility for the Oaks but may wait for the Black Eyed Susan instead. It is nice to have such a deep bench with so many choices to make. Proud Spell is a pint sized fighter who grinds her way to steady victory. Eight Belles is an amazon who overwhelms her competition in size, speed and the ability to keep going. One thing is for certain , whichever route Larry Jones and his owners choose for these fillies , they will be ready, dangerous , and Larry will be leading them along himself.