Granite Falls Thoroughbreds

Akina wins 3 in a row-Moe em down wins first out

2012-02-18T16:31:00.000-08:00

She comes from behind for easy win.-This is her second win in a row for Dean and Mike.

Again from off the pace. Her third win in a row for Mike and Dean.

Moe em Down wins for Troy and Mike.

More wins next week.-By the way, Mike and I won with Snowbound

Marquita at Golden Gate-then she ran second and was claimed.

Breaking yearlings 2011-Empassabella

2011-11-18T19:01:00.001-08:00

Let's run a little "down the lane".

Manuel on Empassabella after a few weeks training--Look how relaxed and confident.

Manuel and Polito.

Now you can be in front.

Look how trim I am-been on a workout program.

Breaking yearlings in 2011-Our Shanghai Express

2011-11-18T18:41:00.000-08:00

Manuel galloping Our Shanghai Express after 4 weeks training.

manuel on Shanghai -with Polito on Lil Scooter-She has to work to keep up with these kids.

What'a up?

I think I'm pretty hot stuff!!!

Anne's August Flowers

2011-08-31T08:44:00.000-07:00

These pics all taken by our friend-Connie Hoge
Basket at clinic entrance.

Another basket at clinic entrance.

Basket at home entrance.

Flowers and flag at home entrance.

Purple phlox at farm entrance gate.

Farm on the 4th

2011-07-05T12:55:00.000-07:00

All photos by our friend Connie Hoge
The three musketeers---from right to left--Ziggy -our 24 yr old pony horse--middle-Our Shanghi express--left is Empassabella

A wild rose on our river bank-lots of them.

A wild raspberry -there are lots of these.

Can still see snow on Mount Pilchuck.

Wild roses.

The homestead.

Down the lane.

Sam's Ace --his first foals run this year-exciting.

Mares and foals on 14 May 2011

2011-05-15T19:19:00.000-07:00

Pasture photo taken by Connie Hoge on 14 May 2011. These mares-Kisses and Meo are both Stakeswinning daughters of Raizel. Meo with the bald face and Major Incident--Kisses on the left with Make Some Noise. Interesting that Meo -who is bald faced-has a colt that has a little white on his face. Kisses who has a small white star on her forehead-has a streak faced filly.

Kisses and Make Some Noise by Cahill Road.

Major Incident with mom Meomeomy on 14 May 11

2011-05-14T19:46:00.001-07:00

We finally named meomeomy's 2011 colt -MAJOR INCIDENT. In todays reporting, there no "wrecks"--"bridges out"---"car overturned"--"Man-hunts".
They call all these things INCIDENTS.

SO WE NOW HAVE A "MAJOR INCIDENT" at Granite Falls Thoroughbreds. Photo by Connie Hoge.

Mckinzie-Dean and Baby on 14 May 2011

2011-05-14T19:23:00.000-07:00

Saturday afternoon, Nancy, my daughter and Mckinzie, my granddaughter came out to go riding. Mckinzie was riding "X" -her horse and I rode Lil Scooter-my mule up the hill. Baby was running by our side-behind us-in front of us- the whole way. Coming back, Connie Hoge took this pic of us. Baby recognized Connie and Butch and "came running." Later Nancy rode up the hill again with Mckinzie.

GREAT TIME HAD BY ALL
WE WERE REALLY LIVIN'- ALL OF US.

Charles-trainer of the week in the program

2011-04-26T14:05:00.000-07:00

Snowbound Marquita wins again

2011-04-25T18:08:00.001-07:00

Mike Pattison and our nice filly won on Sunday like a good thing.

Woodpecker thru the living room window today

2011-04-22T16:41:00.000-07:00

I am about 10 inches tall and love to peck for insects.

Beautiful Robin thru the window this morning.

Old Maple tree.

What's going on here?

Guess I'll peck for some insects.

Great start for Charles

2011-04-17T07:16:00.000-07:00

Charles ran four horses in the first two days at the new Emerald Downs meet. He won with 3 of them, allowing him to be the leading trainer for the first two days. It started with the first race of the meet----Won by Flying Jack-with Debby Hoonan-Trujillo in the irons.-This win rated a full color picture on the Seattle Times Sports Page. Warrior Racing was the owners. He ran in our red and gold racing colors. Then, in the third race, More Than Friends ran a troubled fourth-He belongs to Charles and Ramona. He will win his next out. Next day, Saturday--Robert Skelly won with Glo-BoLyza-owned by Rich and Ann Richardson. Won by half a length. Then , Olympic Lights won the feature by 5 lengths with Robert Skelly up top. A good time was had by all.

More Meo Baby and others

2011-03-29T15:45:00.001-07:00

All Pics coutresy of Connie Hoge Meomeomy's half sister---Kissntheboysgoodby looks over the fence at new kid. Meo and the baby. The Kid. What's that? Empassabella-the gray and Ourshanghiexpress-big yearlings.

Meomeomy's first foal-a colt

2011-03-29T15:01:00.000-07:00

The big guy himself on second day of life. Here I am.

Meo is making a great Mom--She was so tough on the track, I was scepticle of her role as a Mom.

This is where you come to see the new baby.

The eagle's nest -Eagles have gone for lunch.

Dean and Baby doll in the living room on 25 Feb 11

2011-02-25T17:54:00.000-08:00

Dean and Baby looking out the living room window at the sun shining on Mt. Pilchuck at 5 pm.
I am in my favorute "Stress-less" chair with laptop computer attached. Nice to see heavy snow up on the mountain and the little snow melting in our pastures.

Kissntheboysgoodby foals a nice filly

2011-02-24T18:03:00.001-08:00

This is a good day.
We're headin' back to the warm barn.

Yes, there is some grass under this stuff.

Let's see how do I lay down-maybe this will work.

What are you doing mom?

Let's go!!!

I guess snow is normal-sure is cold today. Connie Hoge took all these pics when I arrived at Granite Falls.

Guess I'll go back to the barn.

See my pretty blaze--Isn't it photogenic?

The farm buildings from the swimmin hole.

Connie coming in the farm road on Kisses Day.

My 687 Saddle-Meridean Saddlery

2010-12-05T07:32:00.000-08:00

I just got old 687 saddle back from the Meridean Saddlery friday. The saddle was made in 1967 by Meridean Saddlery when I was managing the Monitor Ranch in Austin, Nevada. It was in the shop to get new stirrup leathers and new sheepskin. Just a little reconditioning and it is same as new. Still looks and rides great. Adrianna Collins rode it yesterday.

Many parts of the saddles are named after the person who first ordered it on saddles.

Frank Arcularius,(sp?) who owned the ranch adjoining the Monitor on the South saw the saddle I was riding which I had made by a Las Vegas saddlemaker-team roper named Bucky in about 1965. He saw that it had no "rideability" and helped me order 687-it cost $287 -measured me and the type horses I rode. It is interesting that Anne- my wife of 47 years has never seen me bucked off--Due in large part to the ridability of these saddles. In 47 years--no horse ridden with this saddle ever had "saddle marks" on the side of the withers and we rode lots of horses real hard in hot country.

The horses were big-- half Thoroughbred and Percheron geldings that we gathered off the Monitor. Great big, "soggy" horses-with big hooves - all high withered, big boned -mostly bay with a white star.They were wonderful as they could run wide open over rough country and strong enough to really "ride" all day. Another good thing was that you could "turn out" these horses all winter -when you needed less saddle horses and not have to feed them all winter. They did fine on winter crested wheat pastures. Amazingly, they were easy to shoe and pretty "quiet" natured. They also could damn sure buck. One horse off the Monitor made "bucking horse of the year" in Nevada. His name was "BLUE SMOKE".

Another horse-named "SPUD", that I bought from Frank was a great animal. He never bucked me off--But since he was a "spade bit" horse I always used one on him. I ,again at Frank's suggestion bought Albert Tietgen bits, THey were really well balanced and light weight-wonderful silver inlays. Twenty percent of the weight of the traditional spade. I still have 2 of these.

When we left The Monitor, I tried to buy some of these horses. They would not sell. New ranch manager was a Texan--"grazing bit" man who "threw his reins away" (no mouth contact) when he rode. About 2 months after we left the Monitor I got a call from the Monitor---DID I WANT TO BUY SPUD?--I asked why-said-"Just doesn't fit our program"

I then called George Ediueta--The bask buckaroo, who was ready to retire at 65 and go back to Spain-who came to the Monitor at 15 years old and spent his whole life on the Monitor. Really understood everything about running the Monitor.
He said new boss got on Spud -with grazing bit-and he bucked him off with gusto.
THey then beat shit out of Spud--bitted him up --got back on him --Spud again bucked him off. George loved it.

A friend of mine-Kathy -needed a horse--She bought a Al Tietgen Spade- and Spud--No problems for many years. I called new Monitor Boss- told him a lady rode Spud daily -no problems. JUST TO RUB IT IN.

The stirrup adjustments on these saddles--all of mine- are named "arky"stirrup adjusters after Frank. They are flatter and lighter than traditional adjusters The stirrup leather placement--front to back- which is half way between a three-quarter single and a five-eights single are named after me 'Essex stirrup placements" Never use a double rig as the back cinch is not necessary and on a bucking horse it transmits every "snap" of the jump to the rider.

Mike Burnhart--the current owner of Meridean Saddlery makes the "same" saddles as I have ordered several from him in the last few years and they are all wonderful

More on Meridean Saddlery on a later post.

Starting some Sam's Ace foals

2010-11-16T20:35:00.001-08:00

Manuel-Holding ACES N OUTLAWS-Gelding out of Dancing Target by On Target.

Manuel holding QUACK UP out of Light My Ducks by Basket Weave

Manuel holding RIVER OF ACES out of Itsrivertime by River of Kings.

Hippolito holding APPLE OF SAMS EYE out of Storm Leaper by Storm Blast.

Manuel holding KISS EM out of Raizel by Chisos.

Adrianna on 17 hand JACK--Manuel on Aces n Outlaws

Anne and Dean going to a Halloween Costume Party

2010-11-15T08:56:00.000-08:00

Anne and I dressed in "cowboy clothes" --we didn't have to buy any. These are the same chaps, spurs, and the boots from the same maker in Nogales,AZ. -Paul Bond that we used when we gathered wild cattle on the Spring Mountain Ranch of Vera Krupp's near Las Vegas. The vet business was slow in 1963 so we gathered wild cows for a living. Really hard work but so exciting.
My chaps were made for me in 1963 in a saddle shop in North Las Vegas.
Anne is wearing a good Stetson that Charles bought for me 5 years ago-I am wearing an old pre Washington Bailey hat. Anne is wearing the same spurs she used in 1963 chasing wild cows.

We had fun dressing "back up" to go to a Halloween Costume party thrown by our good friends Debby and Mike Smith. It is interesting that Anne and I still wear exactly the same size hats and custom made boots. Some things never change. Only difference-we are not currently "packing".
Pics taken in our living room in Granite Falls.

River of Lights wins her 2nd- Our Tail Win maiden wins

2010-10-28T12:49:00.001-07:00

Our Tail Win Likes Portland Meadows and rewards us with a win. He is our last foal -a homebred of Dean Essex and John Charlton --out o Bella Rubia. Look for him to improve.

The above filly also by Tropic Lightning has now won 2 races. Nice filly-another home-bred.

Broodmares status report

2010-06-27T20:27:00.000-07:00

1)-Well, the super Stakes winning mare-KISSNTHEBOYSGOODBY- is in foal to Cahill Road--on an early cover-We are really looking forward to this first foal of "Kisses". Both Kisses and Meo are out of the mare Raizel who is out of Pachena Bay out of the Champion Pachena. Nice family.

2)-Meomeomy -a half sister to "Kisses"-and a Stakes winner herself is in foal to Tropic Lightning who is the Sire of "Kisses"-on a later cover-so we are going "back to the source".-Also, her first foal.

3)-Light my Ducks is in foal to Tropic Lightning on an early cover to Tropic Lightning. She has a great looking filly by Sam's Ace as a yearling.

Some nice win pictures

2010-06-27T19:40:00.000-07:00

Miss Fast Dancer wins for $10,000 tag owned by me and Justin Stillwell.

Akina-who I own in partnership with Mike Pattison wins for $20,000 tag. Her worst race is a coupler thirds. Nice 3 year old filly.

The old man -Call Columbo -at 10 years still winning. He is entered again on 1 July 10.

Back in the Winners Circle-Feels good

2010-06-27T14:46:00.000-07:00

She is fast-owned by Mike Pattison and me.

Snowbound Masquita wins first Out

2010-04-13T20:27:00.001-07:00

Snowbound Marquita ran a bang up race winning her first ever. She is proudly owned by Mike Pattison and Dean Essex. We also have Akina-who ran third her first out-winning her second. She is ready to run again.
Charles had a good first weekend over 3 days. Two wins, a second, and a third with Miss Fast Dancer in the feature on Sunday. From only 7 races, 2 wins, one second, and a third. Super record.

April first---Cold and Pretty-41 degrees F.

2010-04-04T14:49:00.001-07:00

Sunset today

Couple of Pilchuck Pics -Snow- at Sunset today

Woodstove -helps keep us warm and cozy.

A great winter

2010-03-24T13:17:00.000-07:00

Weather has been great most of this winter. Some really nice sunny days. Charles has been winning a few races at Turf Paridise. He won day before yesterday with Catalina Harbor. There has been quite a few sick young horses at Emerald. I guess the young ones just need to go through these things. All of our horses are training really well getting ready for a 9 Apr 2010 opening at Emerald Downs. Meomeomy is on her way home from Turf Paradise. She will join our small broodmare band. She won -placed in lots of Stakes and made over $124,000 on several tracks over a 6 year time frame. Won short-long-dirt-turf. Lovely mare deserves a broodmare retirement

Akina Wins on Second Out

2010-02-20T09:41:00.000-08:00

Won her second start by several lengths. Pretty easy win--Hopefully, many more to come- And, She looks "the Part".

January Wins at Turf Paradise

2010-02-04T13:07:00.000-08:00

Our Coug breaks his Maiden.

Meo wins at age 9 years on dirt-next time return to Turf

Boundtogetbusy wins his first out-nice race.

Louder-the old Warrior Wins Again

2009-12-06T09:26:00.000-08:00

Louder won his third race at Turf Paradise yesterday--Another mile in his --last to first style. He only won 3 races at Phoenix this fall. But he won 6 at Emerald Downs so he has won 9 races for Charles-trainer and owners KJStar and Mike Pattison. Congratulations to all. They claimed him this spring. Nice claim and great runner. Go Louder-but you're pretty loud now. Will get win pics in a week or so.

October on the Farm

2009-11-13T21:14:00.001-08:00

This is a look at fall colors, trees, and the Granite Falls Thoroughbred Farm.

From under the Maple trees in fall.

Thru the picture window in fall.

Again.

The island in fall.

A few horses relaxing in the fall sun.

Downriver from the beach.

The river thru Jack's ears in early September.

A nice fall rainbow.

Just at Sunrise at the Eagle tree.

Just before Sunrise at the Eagle tree.

This is a nice place to be!!!!

Composite Photo of the Osoria Family

2009-11-09T18:40:00.001-08:00

THE WONDERFUL OSORIA FAMILY

This composite picture was done by putting together old photos with new one's.

The distinguished gentleman in the upper left hand corner is the patriarch of the family. His name is Afriend Osoria. He died of a medical condition in 1987. His photo was taken that year.

The young man beside Afriend is Manuel-the youngest son -photo taken in 2000 just before he came to work at Granite Falls Thoroughbred Farm when he was 18 years old. He currently is the barn foreman at Emerald Downs in summer and then he breaks yearlings at the farm in the winter. He is invaluable to our whole operation.

The man next to Manuel is Eduvides. He worked with us for about 12 years before returning to Navajas to work his farm with his family. Navajas is near Guadalajara in the State of Jalisco.

We all cried when he elected to return to spend the rest of his life in Navajas-but -we were all really happy that he was able to do so. We will always remember Eduvides very fondly. Pretty soon, Anne and Dean will be moving to Jalisco---Our house is almost done. So, we will be spending some time with "Vehis".

The third part of the photo was done in June-2009 with Eduvides, Maria, Carmen-Mother, Carmen, and Lupe. Carmen-the Matriarch of the family and it's mainstay is sitting with Maria on her left-Carmen to her right and Lupe to the far left. Truly a wonderful family.

We feel very fortunate to have associated with this family for all these years. May we get many more.

Louder continues his wonderful record

2009-11-01T07:52:00.000-08:00

Louder jumped up last week and won by 4 lenghts at Turf Paradise. At Emerald Downs this year, he was one of the top winners of the year, winning lots of races. He sure is a lot of fun for Mike and KJ Star stable. He is always "right there"-no matter if for $3,000 or $7,500 claim. Really keeps owners on their feet.

Today, Bound to Be MVP is in an interesting race. Eligible to run in the 1000 yard race are paints, appys, tbs, and quarter horses. This is much easier-class wise- than the tougher fields that he has been facing-But it's still a horserace. Hope he breaks well out of the one hole.

Good News--Salmon Coming

2009-10-25T10:41:00.000-07:00

The last 10 days has seen a huge salmon spawning in the river. This looks like (to me) the largest in many years. You can see dozens at a time some days. A beautiful sight.

Weather has been rainey and mild. Some sun shine between showers. Temps in the 50s so not too cold. Good weather for riding colts.

Breaking Colts this fall

2009-10-25T06:12:00.000-07:00

Manual is riding colts this fall again for the fourth year and is doing great. So far we have started 6 head. All are going well. Of the 6-four have shoes on all four as we ride them pretty steady. Manual really likes to start colts and is really good at it. I generally am just around for moral support.

Steve and Charlie-the owners of Liberty-a nice filly- are coming out to the farm at 11 AM to see the filly go to the hills. She is galloping well and strong and has lots of confidence. Strides out like a nice filly. She will need shoes on Tuesday.

Woody-Charles and Rich's Woodman colt is coming together quick and active. Really happy with him. He is still a stud colt--no reason to cut him yet. Real malleable.

Probably--named Irrepressible--name submitted to Jockey Club for approval-Mike's name-has been gelded and loves his training. Happy to go out each time. He belongs to Mike and me. I partnered up with Mike after he bought him in the Summer sale.

Just started -Once- by Tropic-out of Itsrivertime-Will be driven again today. He is a nice stout gelding.

The others are all ok--no problems.

Roberto has been learning on the mule-Lil Scooter- and riding some 2 year olds. His hands are getting good along with his balance. He will be ready for the next step--starting colts next year. He sure learns quick.

When you start colts, the main idea is to install confidence along with the idea that you-the rider- lead "in the dance" and together we all go forward and train together. It really helps young "learners" to go to the hills-away from "familiar areas" so the horse learns to trust what the rider "says and thinks".

Am always amazed how much better yearlings look after a few days riding when the "baby fat" is going away and muscle is appearing.

I really enjoy starting young horses. All are headed in the right direction.

Snowbound Marquita-Mike and my -two year old filly left for Turf Paradise yesterday. She is sure a big strong looking filly. She should be ready to go early next Spring at Emarald. I bet she will be quick.

Charles has a good Washington Cup day

2009-09-16T10:14:00.000-07:00

He did not win any races in the three starts he had in the $50K stakes on Washington Cup Day--But he ran second with Edaciously in the two year old colt division---Second with Who's Your Next Ex--who did not get a breather in a mile race with splits of 22.2--44.3--109.3- finished in 136-1--he led all the way-under pressuse in the mile event and ran second. Then Glo Bou Liza--ran third in the one mile stake.

All in all, we were very proud of our horse's performance on Washington Cup Day. A good time was had by all.

Olympic Lights wins a starter allowance race

2009-09-16T10:08:00.000-07:00

He broke slowly-rearing at the start-and still won. Troy did a great job guiding him to the win and the winners circle.
Hopefully he can run again in another starters allowance race befire meet's end on 30 Sept. 09.

Miss Fast Dancer wins the feature on Friday Night

2009-09-16T10:01:00.001-07:00

She won "by a whisker" but "a wins a win." We claimed her for $12.5K two outs back, and won today for $12.5K. We will be shipping to Turf Paradise at the end of the Emerald meet at the end of September. Hope to get another out in her before shipping south.

Panatella wins in Dead Heat

2009-09-16T09:53:00.000-07:00

Panatella won a race in a dead heat friday evening. She was also reclaimed by the trainer -Roy Lumb-who Charles claimed her from three races back. Charles claimed her for $3500 --won 3 races with her and lost her back to the original owner. OK for all concerned. Charles and Doris Harwood-trainer of other horse in deadheat-agreed to take the winning photo with both horses in the picture. I had never seen that before. Kinda neat.

Flash and Run Wins a Nice Maiden Race

2009-08-15T13:03:00.000-07:00

Flash and Run- a lovely 3 year old filly belonging to Ann and "Rich" Richardson does her thing in a nice Mdn $17,500 claimer beating a real nice field.Another homebred WINNER for the Richardson's.

Olympic Lights -wire to wire- in 108 and 4/5ths

2009-08-15T12:52:00.001-07:00

This was a nice $15,000 claimer in which "lights" ran the 2nd fastest time of the meet. We really enjoyed the win-it was Roberto's first time to go to the races.

Louder--Leading Race winner at Emerald

2009-08-15T12:37:00.000-07:00

Louder- won a nice $7,500 claimer to become the leading race winner so far this year at Emerald Downs. He has 8 starts-4 wins-2-seconds-and one third to top all runners so far this year .

He is happily co-owned by Jerry Miller (KJSTAR stable ) and Mike Pattison. They have had lots of fun with him --and he is elgible for the up-coming starter series for starters for $3,500. They may really scopre with him later in the meet.Good luck to all.

Eddie Wins Big

2009-08-14T09:19:00.000-07:00

Edaciously won a really nice Mdn. Allowance race beating mostly Kentucky -expensive -horses. The interesting story on this race is that the racing secretary-wrote a $20 K mdn claiming race and it got 7 head. He did not use this race--replaced it with a Mdn Allowance race instead. Several of the horses entered for the Mdn $20 K reluctantly( including Charles) reentered the Mdn Allowance race. And then he WON the damned thing. Eddie has talent. Congrats to Mike Pattison who bought him in the Summer sale. The whole team works!!!!!!

Charles is doing great-Featuring Lindsay in the saddleing paddock

2009-07-19T11:05:00.000-07:00

All these pics were taken by our good friend Connie on a beautiful Friday evening in the paddock for the fourth race-a NW of 2 for Trip The Wire going a mile-He ran third.

Lindsay "just being" a dancer while I study the program

Lookout-the horses are coming!

I see em!

Mano e mano

Pateintly waiting--all dressed up!

He has 19 wins from 73 starts---a nice 26 percent win rate. Sorry that I have neglected the blog , but have been in Arroyo Seco and busy on the farm.

Bought Anne a new car. An Xterra Nisson. pretty red-Anne loves it.
Happy Birthday Anne.

Chas won yesterday with Who's Your Next Ex-for a conditioned $32K claimer--Won by 5 easily in 1;36 change.---Owned by our friend Kim Nobles.

Storm Leapers lovely filly- pics from Connie Hoge

2009-05-24T06:34:00.000-07:00

Here I am--What do you think? -I am a star.

I'm off..

I can buck-just practicing>

Wait for me kid.

I'm alert and playing "heads up ball".

Think I've got an itch.

Buy, this running is really fun.

Mom says "just settle down'.

A big stretch.

Tropic Bunny and Mrs. Tiz both win Saturday

2009-05-24T06:10:00.000-07:00

Charles had 6 horses run on Saturday. Two won, one second, one third, one fourth, one sixth. All in all a pretty nice racing day. Tropic Bunny , a homebred belonging to Walt Myers, finally got a clean trip so she could show her stuff winning by over two lengths. Mrs. Tiz, a mare owned by Mike Pattison and KJStar stable won the nineth race by a head.

The weather was wonderful. In the 70's ---bright sun-cool breeze--just a lovely day.

A good time was had by all. Louise, Vicky, Mike, Jerry, John, Mary, Francis, were all there enjoying the racing, weather, gambling.

Charles had a great weekend

2009-05-11T07:17:00.000-07:00

He started 5 horses.

Glo Bou Liza won a really tough allowance race against all but one of the top EMD 3 year old fillies. Debby rode great. She won by 2.5 L and dominated them. Next, should be a stake on 24 May 09. Great Mother's day present for Rich and Ann.

Red Redding won a tough conditioned $25 K claimer with a stunning--come from last -(by 8 lengths) to win with Kate up. Wonderful timimg.

Palanca won -wire to wire -with a nice ride by Kate.

On friday night, E city Kitty had no shot as the horse inside her pulled up blocking her. Lookout next race.

Dru Diligence improved greatly.

Granite Falls Thoroughbred Farm in the HeraldNet

2009-04-28T06:52:00.000-07:00

Photo Credit: Michael O'Leary / The Herald
"Emerald Downs trainer Charlie Essex takes one of the thoroughbreds from his barn out for a morning workout earlier this week."

By Rich Myhre, Herald Writer
HeraldNet, Friday, April 17, 2009

"Thoroughbred success - Granite Falls men"

"At times 'horse racing can be a harsh, punishing sport,' but mostly for Charles and Dean Essex, raising and training thoroughbreds is satisfying and joyful."

AUBURN -- There is family love, for sure, although the bond between Dean and Charles Essex exceeds even the usual affections of a father and son.

In addition, there is a shared passion for thoroughbred horses, and it has wrapped itself around both their lives and livelihoods.

Dean Essex has been a veterinarian for nearly 50 years, and with his wife Anne has owned the Granite Falls Thoroughbred Farm for 30 years. "Horses," he said, "have been a big part of my life, all my life."

Charles Essex, who graduated from Granite Falls High School in 1983, has spent his adult life working at tracks along the West Coast, and in recent years has been a successful trainer at Auburn's Emerald Downs. "I just enjoy being around horses," he said.

When the two men get together, "we do a little bit of family talk, but we always talk on and off about horses," Charles Essex said. "There's no way around it."

Dean Essex, who grew up around ranches in New Mexico and Arizona, received a doctorate in veterinary medicine from Michigan State University in 1961. He and his wife lived in Nevada for several years, where they raised Charles and a daughter Nancy.

It was in Nevada where Charles Essex was first on horseback. "I was 2 or 3," he said. "I don't remember it, but I've seen pictures."

The farm in Granite Falls, which Dean and Anne purchased in 1979, covers 90 acres -- they own 45 and lease another 45 -- and is home to around 40 horses. He also has several animals at Emerald Downs, under his son's care as they prepare for the 2009 racing season.

There is, Dean Essex said, a twofold trick to raising top thoroughbreds -- good heredity and good upbringing.

"You want to get the best blood you can," he explained. "And then you try not to let the horse have a bad experience with man or with anything. You don't want them to have fears because horses are just like people. If they get fears, then the things they're afraid of are very real to them.

"You can't take care of a horse part of the time. You have to take care of them all the time."

At some point, his horses get a chance to run and then maybe to race. The best prospects, he said, are the ones with both the talent and the desire to excel.

"Horses really have to like (racing) to be good," he said. "They're the kinds of horses that win by a nose all the time because they enjoy it. ... They have to like what they're doing, and you can't tell if they're going to like it until they get doing it."

The business of raising horses can be lucrative, but more often "it is very hard just to keep your head above water," he went on. "There's damn little science to it. You just do the best you can with what you got. And have to have a little bit of luck, no matter how good you are."

There are always deep-pocket investors prowling around, he said, "and they'll spend a ton of money for some of these horses. They might spend $100,000, and then we come along and beat them with a little home-bred. That's a lot of fun."

The most successful horse Dean Essex owned is Kisstheboysgoodby, which earned around $139,000. "But I've raised an awful lot of other horses for other people," he said.

Among them, Military Hawk, which is the second-winningest horse in Washington history with almost $686,128 in earnings. Another big winner reared on the Granite Falls farm was Cadet Stevens, which ranks 12th with earnings of $453,539.

While Dean Essex has been making his mark in Washington thoroughbred racing as a breeder and owner, his 45-year-old son has been doing the same as a trainer. A year ago Charles Essex, who now lives in Sumner, finished sixth among Emerald Downs trainers with 35 wins in 185 starts. His earnings of $309,979 ranked seventh.

With 28 horses in his stables, he is at the track most days before 5 a.m., overseeing feeding, medical treatments and hours of on-track workouts.

"I very rarely take a day off," Charles Essex said. "The only times I do is if I'm out of town, and that's usually to go see a horse somewhere."

With luck, he gets an afternoon or two off during the week, but even then he is often in the company of horses. He enjoys going trail riding in the mountains and spending time with his 3-year-old daughter. "She's already riding," he said proudly.

The best part of his job, not surprisingly, comes on race days. "It's the winning," he said. "That's the key. That's why you're here. For the Ws."

Being a trainer is not all joy, of course. Charles Essex has a staff to manage, owners to please and his own high expectations to meet.

But the most difficult thing, he said, "is when you sometimes hurt a horse." When that happens -- and it does, inevitably, because horse racing can be a harsh, punishing sport -- "it's hard to get out of bed the next morning. It's just tough to take."

Fortunately, those incidents are infrequent. On most days, he said, "I don't have any trouble waking up in the morning and I don't drag my feet going to work. I wake up and I go."

For Dean Essex, there is obvious satisfaction in his own career. Likewise, he finds considerable pleasure in the accomplishments of his son.

"It's something that everybody would like to have," he said. "The chance to see your kid follow you along and then surpass the hell out of you. And that's what Charles has done. I'd been around the racetrack all my life, but I was around cheap horses because we were poor as snakes.

"But Charles has worked with some pretty decent horses. And he's really good at what he does."

Storm Leaper's first foal by Sam's Ace

2009-04-21T19:05:00.001-07:00

I'm so proud--struttin down the avenue at 12 days old!!!!!!!
All photos courtesy -Connie Hoge-photographer

I'm so fast!!!!-Lookit me-all 4 feet off the ground!!!!

Yes, I'm a pretty face!!!!

My conformation shot!!!-My mommy is a good mother!!!

Sam's Ace showing off after the birth of his third foal

2009-03-29T20:41:00.000-07:00

I really like my new kids--by the way, I just bred Raizel again today to get "new name applied for " "Kiss Me Quick" a new brother -hopefully. By the way---Connie Hoge-took all pics of me.

Struttin' the pasture.

Running easy--all 4 feet off the ground. I love to run. Evidence--Santa Anita allowance wins-twice-with a fourth to arguably the best Horse of the 21st century "Barbaro" in the $1 M Florida Derby after I had a very troubled trip.

First Sam's Ace Colt foaled in Washington-thanks to Connie Hoge for all pics.

2009-03-29T20:07:00.001-07:00

Sam's Ace first Wa. bred colt out of Dancing Target at 4 days checking out first grass. Thanks to Connie Hoge for the great pics.-Contact me to contact her about taking pics for you.

See how alert I am!

See how fast I am!

Here I am struttin' with mom.

Sam's Ace first filly out of Raizel

2009-03-22T07:32:00.000-07:00

LOOK AT ME!-------HERE I AM!

Here I am--Photos taken 21 March 09-by Connie Hoge-our friend and wonderful photographer --Leave message here to Contact Connie. I was born friday the 13th of March and photo taken a week later.

Struttin'

I can run so fast and really "run the turn".

Do I look like my Dad or what?

Why don't you "come up and see me sometime?

Meo and Louder Pics

2009-03-07T11:10:00.000-08:00

Louder wins a nice prep race for a stake for $5,000 claimers. In the stake-=he ran a close up third. Nice horse.

Meo wins a nice $16,000 claimer on the grass. Nice hand ride by Miguel.

E City Kitty-Louder-Desert Sea win - Charles wins 50 races in 2008

2009-02-01T10:25:00.000-08:00

E City Kitty won her first out in January at Turf Paradise--She was in the one hole---broke slowly--circled the field and won easily. Essex-Charlton may have a runner here.

KJ Star's Desert Sea won after a terrible trip-he was banged around badly enough that they disqualified the offender. Still won easily--We claimed him back for $10K after losing him for $10K--Cjharles entered him for $20K and he won. This was on 29 Dec 08 and was Charles's 50th win of the year

Louder just won yesterday--in a series of distance races-He won easily--next race is further and is a $25K pot. Congrats to all involved. No tag next time----Stake. Yesterday actually was an allowance -stake.

Sam's Ace first Colt

2009-01-16T20:44:00.000-08:00

Sam's Ace had his first son -born in California to out of Rodeo Roar. He is owned by Aron Wellman-who owned Sam during his racing career, The colt was the first of the year at Harris Farms near Colinga. According to Aron " He is a small colt-born at 85 pounds but correct and well proportioned. " We are happy to have Sam's first foal be a "Cal-bred" who will be eligible for those great Cal-bred races and breeders awards. Good luck to all concerned and thanks for sending Rodeo Roar to Sam.

Sam's next foal -out of Raizel- should come in February at Granite Falls Thoroughbred Farm. Raizel has had two foals of racing age-both $100K plus stakeswinners and one still running.

SAM NEEDS SOME MORE MARES FOR THE 2009 BREEDING SEASON. Sam says please send mares-Make My Day.

Tropic over the fence in the snow

2008-12-19T17:56:00.000-08:00

Our wonderful stallion-Tropic Lightning- was looking over the snow covered fence yesterday and our sorta resident-photographer and friend-Connie Hoge snapped this pic. Caught his spirit perfectly.

A little background on tropic. He was a good super runner-winning a $100 grander in Kentucky-at two and 5 more races-all on different race tracks on all surfaces from grass -mud-sloppy-fast tracks. He was a stone cold runner who is making a nice sire.

By the way, he lost his right eye on a pasture accident at 3 months of age. So don't make too many excuses for our horses--THE GOOD ONES OVERCOME lots of bad luck.

It has been a two week cold snap-the first since 1990. But, we are fine and horses seem to love to play in the snow.

Breeders Cup Day 25 Oct 08 fall colors on the Farm

2008-10-26T14:44:00.000-07:00

Coming in the half mile long driveway. A nice run-in shed.

Vehis riding "Eddie" owned by my friend, Mike, in the Ampetheater on the way down the driveway.

Just inside the main gate.

The River.

The Island.

Big Maple trees in front of the farmhouse. Give shade in summer-loose their leaves so we can get sun in winter.

Hillside in near pasture.

Big Maples in front of the farmhouse.

View out the living room window.

The other window view.

Coming in the half mile long private driveway.

Coming in the driveway.

In front of the farmhouse.

View thru the other front window.

Coming in the half mile long driveway showing the island in the middle of the river.

All these pices snapped on 25 Oct 08 when we had lots of friends out to enjoy THE BREEDERS CUP 2008.

A Great friend- Pepsi Jackson-went to a better place

2008-10-23T08:56:00.000-07:00

Pepsi---our friend-wife of Mel Jackson went to a better place this week.

She and Mel bred the great PACHENA-Champion mare in B.C. and Pachena was a big part of their lives for many years. This year, I visited Mel and Pepsi and showed them photos of Kissntheboysgoodby- a Pachena grand-daughter. Pepsi really loved Pachena and Pachena Bay -her daughter. Pepsi loved racing and when she said the word "Pachena"-she just glowed.

My wife Anne, reminded me today of the first and only time Anne led Pachena out to her paddock. Quote---"I don't mind taking the studs out but Pachena is just too tough for me."

Pepsi is survived by Mel and lots of relatives. We will always have a special spot in our hearts for Pepsi.

SO YOU WANT TO BE A BRONC RIDER-from the Western Horseman-july 1953

2008-10-23T08:44:00.000-07:00

Here Robert Sorrells is coming out of the saddle of JET PILOT at San Acacia. He drew the same horse the following Saturday at Truth or Consequences, N.M. -and rode him to a standstill> The crowd collected a large purse and gave it to Robert. He is damned sure a bronc rider.

Robert Sorrells- my mentor as a kid-He let me "hang out" with the big boys when I was 15 years old.

This is a copy of the actual photo and article taken from The Western Horseman-July 1953-

SO YOU WANT TO BE A BRONC RIDER-recently found by Donnie Sorrells -Robert's Son- and sent to me via E-mail. I have previously put a copy of the photo on this blog-but could not get the article til yesterday.

Charles Doing good in Phoenix

2008-10-19T07:27:00.001-07:00

His horses are running well at Turf Paradise. As of today, 19 Oct 98, he has ran 6 horses. He has won 4 races, (two of them my horses)-one second ( Call Columbo-mine) and one fifth. Win percentage WONDERFUL (and also impossible to maintain) 66 % but a great way to start the fall meet.

Yesterday, Meomeomy won a $12.5 claimer on the Turf going a mile.
Louder won a nice mile and one-eighth race on the dirt.
Olympic Lights won a 5.5 furlong allowance race easily.

Will post win photos later as they come from Phoenix.

Nice sunny weather last few days and the yearlings are all coming along great. Mike was out to see Eddie go yesterday-both went away really happy.

Hector and Charles in the morning in 2006

2008-09-25T09:50:00.001-07:00

This picture was sent to me by Cheri Wicklund at Emerald Downs. It shows Hector Ventura on a roan 3 year old with Charles riding his faithful pony horse-Ziggy. Hector passed away last year and we all miss him. He was a good friend as well as a great jockey. This was a real TEAM. Fond memories. Ziggy will spend the winter at GFTF and become Lindsay's horse when she returns from Phoenix in the Spring. Ziggy will retire to THE GOOD LIFE.

Breaking a young Quarter horse

2008-08-24T13:18:00.000-07:00

On a Sunday Morning -It looks like this when we are breaking the yearlings to ride,

Some geese in with a couple broodmares and their foals. Weaning pretty soon.

Coming back home.

Views along the way.

Almost home.

Three of the nice maiden mares to Sam's Ace this year. Just hanging out.

Looking upstream.

The beach and swimmin hole.

View of the island. Note -water going on both sides.

Nice place to ride.

Coming home.

Coming down from the little flat.

Coming down.

Going thru the gardin near the entrance.

Going around the big "School marm's" cedar tree.

Stopping by the swimming hole.

Sam's Ace-one of our breeding Stallions-just relaxing in his paddock as we ride by on our trip "up top" with the babie

Vihis riding in the Ampetheater on his way up top.

Going by the swimming hole.

Starting up to the first little flat.

Trotting around the first little flat.

View of river from garden on the highway-Jordan Road

View coming into the farm on farm road.

Granite Falls Thoroughbreds

Eduvides leaving the farmstead to ride Kate's Quarter horse for his second trip to the hills. Horses don't get sour with this type of breaking.

Leaving on the ride.

On a cloudy Sunday Morning--Riding a nice Palomino gelding belonging to our jockey-Kate- as Vihis rides him up river to the top and back -It pictures what they see as they go for a training ride. This type of early training is part of the reason for our racetrack success along with Charles' decication, love, expertise, and patience coupled with hard work.

Enjoy the ride.

Won a bunch of Races

2008-07-26T09:06:00.000-07:00

A bunch of nice wins over the past 2 months. Have been busy going to Mexico--buying a beach lot and contracting to build a beach house.

My Ooo Rah won a nice nw of 2 races.

Olympic by 10 lenghts---What a thrill.

Olympic in for $12,500 NW of two.

Call Columbo in for $15,000 tag

Trip the Wire breaking his maiden in his second start.

Call Columbo in a 6 horse finish photo.

Damn --it's fun winning races.

Charles Banner weekend

2008-05-26T15:26:00.000-07:00

It all stated Friday night when Call Columbo won for a $15,000 tag. Just up with Frazier in the irons. Beautifully timed ride.

Then Saturday Charles wins three more races. All with Katie up and all Tropic Lightnong foals.

What a day.

The fourth race saw Olympic Lights run off and hide from $12,500 maidens. Then in the eighth came Tropic Gem leading wire to wire in a race full of speedballs. Then in the tenth, the old warrior Rusty Rolls came from out of it to score easily.

Then on Sunday, Consignor won for $7,500 coming from behind with Booger riding.

All in all, it was a banner weekend for Charles,Kate, and Tropic.
And last but not least--two of these were mine.

We won't easily forget this weekend. Congratulations to everyone in the barn.

Dean had a "Cardiac Event" on 26 March 08

2008-04-28T19:00:00.000-07:00

Had a triple bypass at the wonderful "Providence Hospital" in Everett. All went well and am healing well. Great Drs. and guess what ! Two of the nurses in the OR were Karen--longtime friend of Kim and our longtime friend Suzanne Smith. Gave me lots of confidence going in -knowing I was surrounded by friends. I am recovering well under Anne's wonderful care. Will be off work for about two months and then better than ever. Friends rallied with visits -cards -and prayers and it makes you realize how lucky I am. This kind of support is a real blessing. I could not list all as it would fill up this blog. You know who you are and I am forever grateful to all of you. All my love.

My OooRah wins the Friday night feature a NW of 2 for $12,500

2008-04-28T18:53:00.000-07:00

My Oooray wins for fun -nw of two. Charles and Kate are really doing well. As of 28 April 08 -Charles has 10 starters--5 wins-3 seconds and 2 thirds. Kate was on all except the second on Call Columbo.--What a way to start 2008 EMD meet. Great team.

Charles wins at promotional Camel race at TUP

2008-04-28T18:34:00.001-07:00

Charles is in the red silks-sitting way back as the day before this same camel dumped saddle and rider over her head. His number 3 camel came out last but she rallied under "easy handling" as she was pretty sensitive.

Just before she rallies to win the race by a length. Charles had fun with this race

Kissmeagainnagain---OUR NEW STARLET MAKES HER DEBUT

2008-02-28T20:30:00.000-08:00

I was born last night at 11:30 PM.

Raizel foaled a bay filly on 26 Feb 08 at 11;30 PM. The filly is a full sister to Kissntheboysgoodby a nice $100 plus Stakes winner.

Our friend, Mike Pattison came up with the name "kissmeagainnagain". Tonight, the Jockey Club accepted our choice.

We will breed her back to Sam's Ace , our new stallion who ran a close up fourth to the undefeated Barbaro in the $1M Florida Derby in spite of a 4 wide trip around both turns.

Sunrise on 15 Feb 08

2008-02-15T09:02:00.000-08:00

Nough said!-Sky and Eagle nest say it all.

Star Wins again at Turf Paradise

2008-02-05T10:15:00.000-08:00

Star wins again at Turf Paradise at her favorite distance-the mile. Wilson rode the perfect race-let the soeed run on -and closed with a rush. She sure is a fun horse to run.

Pachena-The Great One

2008-01-06T17:59:00.000-08:00

This photo of PACHENA-owned by Mel and Pepsi Jackson- was sent to me today by Pepsi's niece-Lynda Jackson. I always wanted a pic of Pachena. I'll tell what a racehorse she was-Won mdn 3.5 furlong in April of 2 year old year--Laid up with a "problem" til the fall and then won the Jack Diamond Futurity --AGAINST THE BOYS--at 6.5 furlongs. Doesn't sound too great -but she came out of the 12 HOLE -on the Hastings Park bullring. Was best 2 year old in Western Canada in 1979. She went on to win more at Hastings and then went to Santa Anita--and got beat running third by 3/4 th length to BOLD AND DETERMINED--and B and D was ranked the second best three year filly in the U.S. Bold and Determined was ranked second best three year old filly --only because Genuine Risk won the KENTUCKY DERBY that year. That's what class racehorse PACHENA was. She may have been the classiest 3 year old to ever come out of the area.

According to Lynda Jackson, the exercise rider was Jimmy Jackson (no relation) and the photo probably taken in the Spring of 1980.
Many thanks for this photo--by the way--go look at Kissntheboysgoodby pics and you can see her great Grandma Pachena in her build, looks and color. By the way, Raizel, the dam of Kisses is due to foal a full Bro or Sis to "kissesin" in February.

Podi and Manuel

2007-12-19T10:30:00.000-08:00

This is the yearling colt Mike and I purchased(with much input from Charles) at the winter WTBA sale-We named him Podi-after mike's girlfriends nickname PODI.

We were all impressed with this colt-he was on all our-"to look at" lists before we confered. We were pleasantly surprised with his looks and passed on several others to buy this colt. Hope springs eternal.

By the way, wouldn't you like Manuel to look at you the way he looks at this colt?

Living room Christmas tree-Anne's handiwork

2007-12-19T10:09:00.000-08:00

Wonderful Christmas courtesy of "Anne

A Talpa de Allende Ranch and Arroyo Seco Beach

2007-12-09T10:44:00.001-08:00

A little (half acre) lake on the ranch near Talpa de Allenda,Jalisco. It has lots of fish.

The stream -about 4 ft deep and 15 ft wide that forms the East boundary of this ranch.

The ranch directly to the south of the ranch we are looking over.

The north boundary is the block wall you see to left side of photo. This ranch has 102 hectares-about 270 acres with 40 hectares (100 acres)-lazar leveled. It has hillside of about 40 hectares. It is on a good dirt road about 8 km. west of Talpa de Allende. Talpa is about 9 Km south of Mascota.

Beach view about 2.5 hrs south of Puerto Vallarta,Jalisco.

Sam' Ace has his first test mare in foal

2007-11-25T08:14:00.000-08:00

We check our new first year stallions by test breeding a non-thoroughbred mare in November, when the stallions hormones are at their lowest ebb. We use this -plus normal semen evaluations to insure the New Stallions are truly able to get mares in foal. It is always with a big sigh of relief when we get a test mare in foal. Also we were very happy with how quickly and professionally that "Sam" took to his new vocation. He covers quickly and efficiently.

NICE JOB SAM.

Just got back from Mexico

2007-11-24T15:24:00.000-08:00

Had a wonderful time visiting ranches and friends in Jalisco. Fiesta area in front of rock ranch house above town of Union de Tula.

Ranch house made of rock.

Front porch with ranch house kitchen on right.

Reservoir behind dam near Cruz de Talpa at crossroads Mascota-Talpa.

Near my friend Vicente Madrigal's home near Cruz de Talpa. I stayed most nights at his home.

Thanksgiving dinner early

2007-11-13T08:55:00.000-08:00

The Carneys-Rob,Nancy,Mckenzie,Garret,Elliott --John and Mary Charlton had an early "Turkey Day".

Here is Garret with his first "very own " Turkey Leg.

Anne sending food around--Nancy reaching for a pot.

The whole crew "on smile".

Eagles and a couple of deer on the Stilliguamish

2007-11-03T20:20:00.001-07:00

Two young deer on the farm.

---These pics all taken on 31 Oct 07.---A young "Spike" looking at his girlfriend.

Young doe-guess I'll just eat grass-I don't know that Deer are supposed to be browsers of brush.

An immature Bald Eagle before getting his adult white head and tail-feathers. They get white at about 3 years of age.

An adult Bald Eagle fishing on the Stillaguamish.

Nicholas Morales' New Meridean Saddle

2007-11-03T20:00:00.001-07:00

My oldest Grandaughter-McKinzie trying out his saddle on Lil Scooter. This is probably the last time it will be used on a mule. This saddle was carefully made by Mike Burnhard of Meridean Saddlery-Meridean, Idaho. It really fits mules to Thoroughbreds to Andalusians to roping horses. It has true balance.

The stirrups are hanging a little forward of normal position.

Adrianna trying it out-no time to adjust stirrups.

Manuel making sure it will fit Nicholas.

Eagle on the river

2007-11-03T19:48:00.000-07:00

Nobody better mess with this Salmon-it's mine.

OK you crows can have what's left-have at it.

Breeders cup at Granite Falls

2007-10-31T15:00:00.001-07:00

Louise,Vicky and Anne enjoying the meal the night before for Handicapping--and we are handicapped handicappers.

Elliott and Garret on top of the hay stack.

Mike, John and Mary doing the same. Good time had by all.

The Wolf Pack.

Great Day with friends on Breeders Cup Day

2007-10-28T07:56:00.000-07:00

Many friends gathered to watch the 2007 Breeders Cup. Vicky came fron Polsbo. Lou came from Auburn. Mike from Lake Stevens. John and Mary -Granite Falls. We made a few bets----Almost all bad--But it sure is fun to discuss, cuss -describe why your choice is better than mine. Wonderful to watch the best horses from all over the World compete--even if the track was really muddy. Also, Sam's Ace covered his first test mare today--Did fine. It is real hard to get mares to cycle this time of year in this area-but one mare agreed yesterday. We like to check new studs for true fertility--ie getting a mare in foal-even if it is really difficult this time of year. All hormone levels in mares and studs are lowest this time of year. Vicky brought some great grub-we ate well. We really had some fun. It was a beautiful day.

Eagle, Nancy and McKenzie, Fall Trees on the farm for sale

2007-10-25T07:16:00.000-07:00

My daughter, Nancy riding a 2 year old quarter horse named Quincy. He will be the replacement for Ziggy as a pony horse at the track.

Seagulls waiting for the Salmon.

Eagle also waiting in a nearby tree.

Eagle tree as fall change of colors at sunset tiday.

Nancy with Mckenzie on Ex-her wonderful show arab. Jumps well too.

Some Fall trees in Bright Colors near the Driveway

2007-10-17T21:43:00.000-07:00

Just as you leave via the front gate of this FARM FOR SALE.

Just coming in via front gate.

A couple Japanese Maples as you come in.

Coyote in full coat-Wonderful

2007-10-17T21:30:00.000-07:00

Watched this lady stalk a 4 point buck and when he cleared the fence and left, I got her to stop long enough for this shot. She had 6 pups this Spring and I saw several about a week ago. They really keep the rats,rabbits,and feral cats numbers in check. It's really neat that these animals can adapt to living and thriving right around civilization. Only downside that I see is that they get a few house cats that aren't wary.

River in the early morning

2007-10-13T08:34:00.000-07:00

If you are interested in this FARM FOR SALE you may leave your contact information in the comment area below each blog entry or call me-Dean Essex at 360-691-6030
Owner

Daybreak looking towards Mount Pilchuck.

A Seagull waiting for the salmon to come up river and spawn and die.

This is the island where the Gulls wait for the Salmon.

Island in the early sunlight.

Big rock at head of island-Great place to wait for salmon.

Fall Yellows On The Leaves--FARM (RANCH) FOR SALE

2007-10-12T04:51:00.001-07:00

This is 'Count,' Suzanne Smith's saddle horse. He is grazing in the center pasture we call the triangle, recovering from a bout of colic. Sure helps these horses to be on a good grass pasture.

Note how very yellow the leaves are on the cottonwood trees in background. Today I saw several Seagulls waiting on the bank of our "Stilly River" for the Salmon to run.

The far run-in shed with the changing fall colors.

Ranch For Sale

2007-10-11T09:45:00.000-07:00

View of the farm house coming up the lane. The house is right under those two big trees in the center of the photo.

Going out the lane. Fall colors.

Gaggle of geese against the fall colors.

We live on a beautiful 45 acre horse ranch which borders the Stillaguamish River for a half mile. We call it the "Stilly." Our property is completely fenced with good "horse fence" divided into 9 nice pastures. We have over forty-two 12 X 12 stalls that have wood (FIR) floors and sides.

The "Stilly River" has a nice salmon run every fall as soon as the fall rains tell the fish that the river is ready for them to come up and spawn.

We are only one mile from Granite Falls, WA, which has a big supermarket, two drugstores, 2 great hardware stores and a superb Mexican Restaurant.

The Mexican Restaurant is owned by men from Jalisco, Mexico. Their Carne Asada is the best that I have ever tasted. We love their aptly named 'Acapulco Restaurant.'

"SAM'S ACE" - A New Stallion

2007-10-10T21:34:00.000-07:00

I think I'll just trot over here.

Comin' at ya.

Looking for a place to roll.

Found it.

'Sam's Ace' was a wonderful racehorse winning half of his races. Most impressive was his close up 4th to ill fated BARBARO in the Florida Derby-a one million dollar race.

Sam won 3 races-one at Del Mar-and 2 at Santa Anita . These races allowed him to be considered for the Florida Derby. He is by 'In Excess' out of a Meadolake mare. Won at 2 . Won from 6 furlongs to a mile . Ran 4th in the Florida Derby at one and one-eighth miles.

Outstanding individual. Over 17 hands tall and great presence. Wonderful disposition.

Early morning sunrise on 9 Oct 07

2007-10-10T21:21:00.000-07:00

Sunrise over Granite Falls Thoroughbred farm on 9 Oct 07. Mount Pilchuck on the right with the Eagle Tree nest on left.

Taken from the farm house under the big maple trees.

10 seconds later.

One minute later.

Two minutes later.

What a glorious sunrise over our farm which will soon be our 'farm for sale.'

Re-seeding two pastures

2007-10-09T20:12:00.000-07:00

The Eagle tree in the early fall. Note, you can barely make out the Eagle nest.

Every day, we see the Eagles bringing big branches to repair the nest. They must make several "passes" to gain enough altitude to get branches in the nest. Many times they get tired of trying to get a big branch to the nest and just drop it.

The "BORREGOS" pasture in the fall.

This week we are re-seeding two pastures. That is necessary about every five years. When we plant, we use a special 'alta' grass that has about 20 % protein and the roots go down about 12 inches. This is good as the horses can't pull up the plant by the roots.

Also, if you don't re-seed, the native grass, which is very short rooted and about 3% protein, will come back. We will soon put the FARM FOR SALE in a local paper. Sometime, this fall.

Fall farm stuff

2007-10-08T08:34:00.000-07:00

My friends big John Deere tractor aerating the triangle. Really helps the grass grow.

The big Kubota tractor, below, part of our farm equipment, pulling the manure spreader. This is how we recycle the farm's horse manure which really helps the grass grow.

We can put the manure directly from the 40 stalls onto the pasture as we have always used a daily de-wormer so no 'worm eggs' go on the pasture. Amazingly, there is no manure smell.

WE are in the process of "aerating" the farm so that the constant running of horses hooves won't keep the soil compacted. Aerating with a large, heavy "spiked thing" actually cuts 6 inch long and 4 inches deep holes in the soil so it can breathe better and helps keep rainwater from pooling and making mud holes. This process of field generation is something we have been doing since we became owners of the farm/ranch. And as we will be putting the farm up for sale soon, we want her to continue to be wearing her best dress for the next generation of owners.

Fall is here on the farm

2007-10-03T10:50:00.000-07:00

This is a pic of "Lil Scooter", my saddle mule, with the newly planted Emerald Green trees in background.

This picture taken from under the big Maple trees at the house.

This is the Sequoia tree (California Redwood) we planted 12 years ago, right after it was our indoor Christmas tree. Note the diameter of the trunk. It will be a great big tree.

We have had a few days of rain-great for the grass. We planted 150 Emerald Green trees to make the farm more private. They look great. Our grass is still green and all is well. We also are re-seeding 2 other pastures.

Just was up town in Granite Falls, WA and noticed the new $31 million High School. It is beautiful. It is beside the current grade school and both are just one mile from the farm. It's nice to have important elements of a quality life so close by.

I plan on putting an 'FARM FOR SALE' ad in the Seattle Business Journal next month. Or maybe a 'RANCH FOR SALE' ad. I haven't decided on the wording yet. Maybe I should put in an ad for a 'RIVER FOR SALE.' HEhehhehhehheh. We have so much river shore line that we really could say that.

Star Fix wins her third in a row

2007-09-18T04:13:00.001-07:00

Star won her third race in a row under the patient and "Patent" ride of Wilson Dieguez. He just "sat behind the speed" --then -at the last moment was able to "slip thru a hole" and win in hand--under a hand ride. She now --UNDERSTANDS THE GAME.

Charles is trying to get Lindsay to wave to the camera but she sees no reason to do so.

We were joined in the winners circle by Wilson's wife and daughter. He will be going to Phoenix so we will be fortunate to have his services available to us there. Nice to keep "the team" together.

Lou Foster was in Alaska so could not be here today. Bet she will be next time.

Vicky, Walt Myers, and a couple of Soldiers along with Leona helped us celebrate.

Our old friend, Rick McCardle along with Leslie and her daughter were also cheering. It was Kennedy's 10th birthday--SO she really celebrated. Happy Birthday.

Call Columbo at his best

2007-09-18T04:00:00.000-07:00

Columbo ran the best and fastest race of his life on 2 Sep 07. He beat the great Saltgrinder- a real old class horse. Ricky Frazier was up and timed the ride perfectly.

The rest of the equation was that Tom Roesch and his daughter Sara were able to help us celebrate. Vicky James,Mike Pattison, and Rich Richardson really made the day great. Chelsea, our exercise girl, helped with the celebration.

Call Columbo is a nice little horse.

River pics on the way to watch Call Columbo win on 2 Sept 07

2007-09-03T19:33:00.000-07:00

Looking up the hill just as you come in the main gate. A nice way to leave for the races.

Summertime and the livin' is easy.

Geese playing in the river. Nice day.

Thru a snag tree-Mount Pilchuck.

Looking down-river.

Looking up-river.

On the way out-the 'Amphitheater.'

Just past the beach going out.

A couple on the river .

Geese relaxing.

One kayak going down.

Just reaching the rapids.

Our own little heaven on earth includes the banks and waters of this river.

Coyotes and tree frog in bird house

2007-09-02T10:14:00.001-07:00

In our birdhouse in the Friendship tree a tree frog decided to sit in the opening for the birds. Evidently, he liked it here as he sat looking out all afternoon.

Another look at "the frog".

Think I'll step out a bit.

A 6 month old pup looks the world over from the "boragos pasture".A nice little sandy area to scratch and lay around-anyway, my siblings aren't bothering me now.

Think I'll just hide here for a while. Nice sun -good day.

Mascota area in August

2007-08-27T20:46:00.000-07:00

View to east near house site.--This is a nice ranch about 4 miles off the pavement on a good dirt road-which you can ride horses into the town of Talpa--old mining town. Can ride forever on these "few car roads".

Vicente's wife shows the south view from house site--note good grass.

North end of cornfield going into the pines near the big springs area.

East side of ranch-in pines near big spring.

Ranch owner's son "suckin it up" near big spring.

Looking at view from home site.

Ranch goes to the tops of the ridges on these mountains. Big rain today -mud at gate.

The lower part of the Mascota ranch --this is about 20 acres along a creek that runs about 8 months a year. Good sourse of rock and sand for building --also good pasture land.

View of the lower pasture and the lower corn field just before going up in elevation about 100 feet to the house building site.

This ranch is about 30 minutes from Mascota-2 hours from Puerto Vallarta and 3 hours from Guadalajara..Photo taken from house site. The ranch is about 88 hectares=about 220 acres. Half is in pines in mountains- one fourth now planted in corn--one fourth in pasture.Lots of good springs coming out of mountains-which property goes to the top of them.

Star Fix strikes again and at 6.5 furlongs

2007-08-26T17:14:00.001-07:00

Real easy win for Star. Kevin Radke did his usual great job. The gang-Lou and family-Vicky and me along with Eduvides. Grand time had by all.

Star Fix strikes again

2007-08-11T11:39:00.000-07:00

She is pretty much a "miler" with lots of "try". Kevin Radke did everything right and she got another win for the "three amigos". Again, I was out of town for this win. Watched it on tape when I got back.

Miss Brookie breaks her Maiden

2007-08-11T11:32:00.000-07:00

Miss Brookie won her maiden race and was pressured by 3 different horses-quite impressive. I was not in town for the win,but I will spend the money.