Not many 10-year-old racehorses still win races. Seldom do they also win by more than eight lengths and set track records. But, one horse did. Evening Attire won the Greenwood Cup, a Breeder’s Cup “You Win and You’re In” series of races. Evening Attire was not like any other horse I’ve watched race. I have never seen a horse literally “walk out” of the gate and hit the board like he did. He had a great racing career and he was a joy to watch. I would watch him race and would always hope that he would beat the big names because he had a heart of gold. He was a special horse. Even at lower levels, you see a few older horses, but none of them could compare to Evening Attire. He had so much determination as a race horse and he was still hitting the board at the age of 10 in graded races. I will really miss watching him walking out of the gate at the racetrack.

Ashley Mailloux
Cheektowaga, New York

I have loved horses all of my life, but within the last year I really started loving racehorses and racing. My sister-in-law, Michelle, an avid fan of all things horses, had told me about a nine-year-old horse that raced named Perfect Drift and I thought "That is amazing, a nine-year-old that is still racing and doing well!". After that conversation, I had a dream that Michelle and I were at a horse race and I picked a horse to win. I looked at my program and saw that the horse was 10 years old, which amazed me. A couple of days later, my dream had come true, I discovered 10-year-old Evening Attire and fell in love with him and his style of winning a race!

My favorite memory is his 2008 Greenwood Cup win and the new track record over all younger horses. I could not have been more proud of him if I had been the owner, the breeder, the trainer or the jockey! It is amazing how connected fans become to horses, as if we know them personally, even though we only get to see them on television and, if we are lucky, at the racetrack. I think that Evening Attire is truly one of the greatest horses that ever raced and he will be missed terribly.

Beth Alexander
Somerville, Alabama

My family and I sat in the stands at Saratoga Race Course on an overcast, rainy day one August after the celebration of the Travers week was over, only to find a greater thrill in watching Evening Attire run his heart out. We sat in disbelief as he ran down the backstretch, the field in view, and he was yet still hidden by the tote board. When he emerged to run down the pack we found ourselves standing and yelling in support of this newfound (to us) hero and cheered him, coated in mud, his beautiful gray he sports unrecognizable, as he crossed the finish line winning not only the race, but the love and respect of our entire horse race-loving family.

We will miss him on the track but look to see him in his splendor in his new found home.

Tom, Deb and Tommy Trimble
Lakewood Ranch, Fla.

The first time I saw Evening Attire was at the 2007 Massachusetts Handicap at Suffolk Downs, and I have become one of his fans ever since. I was most impressed by his demeanor, great looks, heart, and longevity. He did not win that race but he added color and drama to it.

We are not privileged to witness racehorses like Evening Attire very often and he has been a blessing to the fans and the racing industry, and I am certainly grateful for Evening Attire and to his connections.

I wish Evening Attire a long, happy and healthy retirement. I pray that the Good Lord will bless him and keep Evening Attire in His loving hands! Thank You, Mr. And Mrs. Grant, for the magnificent memories.

Donald Veronneau
New Bedford, Massachusetts

I was disappointed I did not get to see evening Attire at our Saratoga race meet, but because of OTB, I did see him win in Philadelphia in July. He is the "War Horse" that he is referred to. I love his gray coloring and his muscled chest. I marveled at his ability in the 1 1/2 mile races. I will be able to watch him on TV on Oct 25. What a great tribute to a beautiful and determined race horse.

I hope that he lives the remainder of his life with dignity. Evening Attire definitely deserves that.

Gail Novak
Albany, N.Y.

I am a long time Evening Attire fan. I live near Saratoga and I have had a picture of Evening Attire framed in my home since his victory in the 2004 Saratoga Breeders Cup Handicap, where he beat Funny Cide with Cornelio Velasquez up. I was not at the races that day, but I bought the picture. My family and I have been following Evening Attire for many years and without a doubt he is my favorite horse of all time.

My favorite memory of Evening Attire was in an allowance race at Saratoga in 2003. It started to rain a little bit, and I was one of the few people on the rail. I waited for him on the turn for home where he starts to make his move. It started to rain a little harder. I ran with him shouting his name as long as I could keep up (which wasn’t long at all). He closed out the race and won.

To me, Evening Attire is what the sport of horse racing should be all about. It has been great to be able to follow such a great horse for such a long time. I remember I went to Belmont Park to watch him win the Jockey Club Gold Cup. My father, uncle, and I would always check to see if Evening Attire was frisking his tail around, because he was moving his tail before he won that race. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to talk about the greatest horse ever.

Jeff Jeanette
Glenville, N.Y.

I was with a TV news crew the day before the Belmont Stakes this year and they shot the stretch run of the Brooklyn Handicap. They were impressed with all the applause the winner got as he jogged back towards the winner’s circle after the race, and then amazed when I told them the applause was actually for the horse that finished second, Evening Attire.

John Lee
NYRA Director of Communications and Media Relations

It seems appropriate that one of Frank Sinatra's best-loved songs was "My Way," and that Evening Attire ALWAYS did it HIS way. No more perfect confluence of singer, song and horse has occurred. His presence will be greatly missed; he not only stood over a lot of ground, he owned the ground upon which he stood. We may never see his like again.....more's the pity for all of us.

Judith Stock
Vesuvius, Virginia

I live so far away that I was never able to see Evening Attire in person, but, if at all possible, I never missed a race of his on TV. All his races were special to me, although I probably would have to pick the Jockey Club Gold Cup as one that stands out. I think it is because I felt his finally getting a Grade I was truly outstanding.

I was a fan of his daddy’s, and with deep closers and greys being among my favorite types of race horses, EA had it made with me from the very beginning! He is such a warrior that he will always have a special place in my heart and my memory.

Best wishes, Evening Attire, in your retirement. I recently retired myself and it’s great! I think you will enjoy yourself.

Lois Hudgins
Dacoma, Oklahoma

There I was at Saratoga Race Course in 2004, at the fence at the top of the stretch with my camera, when Funny Cide, who was on the lead in the Saratoga Breeders’ Cup Handicap, heard the old gray boy coming up on his outside. Everyone around me was rooting for Funny Cide, while I was screaming like a fool for Evening Attire!

I knew he was going to go right past Funny Cide, but I kept hollering for evening Attire to catch him! I was so happy to see Evening Attire win!!! When I got back to my seat, my husband was laughing because I had lost my voice yelling for my hero. My husband was happy for me and asked, "How much did you bet on Evening Attire?" I think he was perhaps 9-1, but all I could do was squawk that I didn’t bet him, just rooted him across the finish line first and got his picture. That was all I cared about, not about cashing a ticket. I just wanted to see him win.

I still do. And when spring comes and he’s knocking down the walls again looking to race a few more times … we’ll be looking for him!

Mary Skillin
Ballston Lake, N.Y.

There are no words to describe the joy Evening Attire has brought to countless people who love him. My sister and I are die hard racing fans and noticed Evening years ago at Saratoga. We've always had an affinity for greys and he was a lovely one. Over the years it's been fun following him, in his workouts and races. I've seen him race at Aqueduct, Belmont and of course Saratoga.

What struck me most, was that for a lot of the races I've seen him live, while there were more prestigous races or prestigious horses racing that day, every time, Evening would receive the most applause. You cannot help but root for a warrior who does not know what it is to give up. In the dictionary there should be a picture of Evening next to the word "heart".

What's funny is -- everyone thinks of Evening as a "blue-collar" horse, a tryer, a warrior. What I didn't realize is how gorgeous he is. I purchased a photo of Evening taken by Barbara Livingston, while he was "resting" on the farm in Saratoga Springs. I call it my "portrait" of Evening because he is that stunning (I have it hung in my living room). Kinda looks like a show horse. He's looking, with head turned to the side, out of a stall. Just stunning.

Thanks to all the connections for keeping him happy and most importantly-- sound. I will truly miss seeing him and calling out to him as he passes. Wherever he may end up I pray he lives a safe, happy long life. Thank you for teaching us what courage and determination mean.

Pam Warrenchak
Saratoga Springs NY

I couldn't possibly pick just one race that Evening Attire ran as my favorite. What a thrill it was to see him win his last race in record time and actually earn a berth in the Breeders’ Cup Marathon at the age of 10!! Thank you all for many exciting years with a truly wonderful horse. Give him a pat on the neck from me and tell him to enjoy his well-earned retirement, though I'm sure it will be a big adjustment for him since he loves the track so much! I can't physically be at Belmont Park on the 25th, but my heart will be there for sure.

How can there be a "favorite moment" with you? When you first entered the racing scene no one expected that here we would be so many years later, watching you win...again...a valued contender who raced every race like the race horse you are. We knew you were good, you proved to be extraordinary...YOU are the favorite memory. We will so miss your face on the track.

Rachel Anderson
Nottingham, NH

There are many Evening Attire memories, and all of which have been good. However there is one moment that sticks in my mind more than any other Evening Attire memory. In fact it's one of my favorite horseracing memories period. It was January 19, 2002. The Aqueduct Handicap at, of course Aqueduct racetrack. I was watching at the Meadowlands.

Snow began earlier in the day and continued throughout the afternoon, making the track a white winter wonderland. The snow continued. One wondered if a stoppage of the day's races were in order as the flakes fell.

In classic Evening Attire fashion, he dug in and made his bid for the win. Balto Star led most of the way as the favorite. Evening Attire made his move, and went by. It was apparent the win was his as he closed in on the wire with the lead. But as he closed in on the wire, he spotted tracks in the snow from the tractor that pulls the gate.

So Evening Attire barrel-jumped them, never missing a beat, en route to victory. That was my favorite Evening Attire memory. And I had a winning wager on him making it that more special!

Stephen J. Alicknovic
Wallington, NJ

My favorite recollection of “Grandpa,” “Old Whitey,” “Mr. Old Gray,” “Old Man” or “Mr. Poppy”, taking your choice of nicknames for the grey horse, was July 19th at Philadelphia Park. He was participating in the $250,000 Greenwood Cup Stakes which was a part of the new Breeder’s Cup marathon distance on dirt of a mile and a half. It was a hot day. My wife and I had read that Evening Attire was not fond of heat. A ten year old horse, taken out of his element, we were cheering for him to have an uneventful trip. We never expected what we actually saw that day.

Anyone who is a fan of Evening Attire knows that he loves to come from behind. He is a classic closer. At Philadelphia Park on this particular day, he passed the grandstand taking the lead. My wife and I were looking at each other and wondering what the jockey, Jose Espinoza, was doing. First, Evening Attire had to deal with the heat which he does not like, and now he was being taken out of his characteristic riding style.

Little did we know that this was the “grey blur’s” own doing and not his rider’s decision. He ran the race wire to wire on the lead and set a new track record of 2:29.90 winning by 8 1/4 lengths. The fans were jubilant and greeted the champion with a hero’s welcome as he entered the winner’s circle for what would be his last win.

D. Todd Sidor
New Brunswick, N.J.

Where do I begin? Well, I should point out that I am a 15-year-old from Brooklyn New York; and probably the biggest horse racing fan I know. Being a big horse racing buff, I could tell you the names of tons of horses whom I think are very good, or good, or nice, but I could tell you the names of only a handful of horses who are truly great.

These great horses are not just horses who show up, run a big one, and then are never seen again. These great horses are horses who go out there every day and give 110%. No one horse gave more than Evening Attire did. Though I never saw him in person, I can tell you that just by watching his races on television, Evening Attire was truly a superhorse. His late bursts of power and speed have been like no other of this decade. If you were a jockey and you saw Evening Attire coming up behind you, you knew you were in trouble.

There's no horse I can relate more to than Evening Attire. He would start out slowly and come on strong. When I start something, a school project, for instance, it takes me a while to get going. But when I get going, I'm gone.

Another big thing about Evening Attire is that he has won at different distances, on different surfaces, at different tracks, against Grade 1 competition, and from ages 2 - 10. Truly amazing!

Evening Attire is up there with great older horses like Kelso, Forego, and John Henry. People around the world should be in awe and take a moment to realize how great he was on the track. I know I'm grateful.

Ben Garner
Brooklyn, NY

“And down the stretch” he came, again and again and again and again. Pat Kelly could not have said it better, “He always showed up!” What more could you ask for!

Dan Jenkins
Marcy, N.Y.

It was a mid-August morning. We sat some 40 feet off Barn 22's shed row. TJ talked and I listened. He was cutting up some apples. I asked to help and TJ said, " Thanks, but I'm about done and the 'old boy' is watching us." I figured that meant the big, strapping dappled gelding in stall 8 wouldn't appreciate another cowboy working on his treats. Evening Attire was pumping his head up and down, furiously, as if to say....'" you got that right!"

TJ finished and said, “Let's go feed him!” Evening Attire looked on our approach. TJ opened up his hand. The old boy dove, hard. He retreated with the apple slice and a bit of TJ's skin from the palm and thumb. TJ turned to me in a shocked look and said, "Now ,don't that beat all! He's never bit me before. I guess he's ready for a good race." Then, he smiled and carefully offered the rest of the apple. Evening Attire went out the next day and left nothing but green apples for Funnycide.

Dave Cummings
Schuylerville, N.Y.

My favorite memory of Evening Attire is the Greenwood Cup in July, 2008. He was so powerful and won by at least five lengths. But I enjoyed seeing him run every time. Evening Attire is a horse that had a big tiger inside him, always confident, had the best gate manners in the world. He always rallied from behind, even from huge lengths, pacing himself just right. He was smart in that he knew what he had to do to take the distance. He was just a really smart, confident horse and gave no one an ounce of trouble ever.

Elly Swift
Gloversville, N.Y.

I was saddened when I read last week that Mr. Kelly had to retire Evening Attire! I've followed him for many years and have been one of his legions of fans. Will never forget the time here in Saratoga, the jockey, fell off him at the gate....and that gorgeous animal went on and still finished first! And that day he beat Funny Cide! I will miss searching the entries for his name....and seeing this gorgeous animal run. Happy Retirement! He's entitled, I suppose, gave all of us many happy days at the track here in Saratoga Springs! Thank you Mr. Kelly, and Mr. & Mrs. Grant!!!

Gloria Battaglini
Saratoga Springs, NY

I am a new fan of Evening Attire since my eyes were first opened to him when I saw him race at Philadelphia Park in July. I work at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs and I was watching him race with some of the regular simulcast customers, and I fell in love with him. The regulars, some of whom have been coming to this track for 30 years, all started telling me stories of races they saw Evening Attire win, and bets they placed o him over the years. Believe me, he has many fans of all ages. I will miss reading about his races but wish him a happy retirement.

Jennifer Starr
Wilkes Barre, Pa.

I have been fortunate to have seen quite a few of Evening Attire's races at Belmont and Aqueduct and we have always loved him. He is so beautiful and has such heart. I must mention two of my favorite races, the Stymie Handicap on March 3, 2007 and the Queens County Handicap on December 8, 2007, both at Aqueduct. That was the thrill of my life. To be with all of his fans cheering after he won the Queens County - words cannot express how I felt. I was so happy I was crying. I was not able to be at Philadelphia when he won the Greenwood Cup but watched it on TVG and I was hoarse from yelling. He was magnificent. I must tell you, if he would have been able to go to the Breeders’ Cup this year, he would have won. I just know it. We want to thank his connections for allowing us the privilege of sharing such special moments while watching our great hero give his all in every race for his beloved family and fans.

Yvonne and Maurice Kirby
Fort Worth, Tex.

Dear Evening Attire

My favorite moment in your career was your last race, your Greenwood Handicap win in July, 2008. You are the most marvelous warrior, and I have recently had the pleasure of becoming friends with a guy who has a site devoted to you. His name is Steve, and he has brought so much more of you into my life than I had before. How can any horse be as cool, calm and collected as you...such a handsome, GORGEOUS big gray boy - I LOVE YOU EVENING!

I am unlucky enough to never have been to your New York tracks, never saw you in person - but you are here in my house - sooo many pictures of you! Have a great life big guy! I will be reading as to where you will be happy in retirement. THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES!! You have the sterling notoriety of having competed in stakes every year until age 10!!! AMAZING HORSE! Love you!!!

Lori Morton
Cleveland, Ohio

We have been fortunate to see this great horse run in person many times in his career. Evening Attire has been an inspiration to us for his fierce competitive spirit and determination to never give up. Once he got the lead, I never saw a horse pass him. Some of our most memorable moments of Evening Attire are as follows:

• Seeing him in person win the Greenwood Cup at Philadelphia Park in July 2008 by 8.25 lengths to qualify for the Breeders Cup at age 10.

• Winning the Stymie on 3/3/07 on Adrienne’s birthday (she told him to win it for her birthday before the race).

• Visiting the great champ at Mill Creek Farm in 2006 and feeding him carrots and giving him hugs and kisses.

• Seeing him at Keeneland in the Ben Ali in April 2004. Watching him in the Paddock taking in all the beautiful scenery. After his gallant effort for 2nd (Midway Road set a track record), we saw him being hot walked and getting a bath. The Keeneland workers remarked what a great and nice horse he is.

• Watching him win the Clarke Handicap and not letting the horse get by him (although he was unfortunately disqualified).

• Running at a stakes race at Laurel Park, Rogue Agent’s jockey cut him off where he was almost knocked over the fence, but he still fought on for 2nd.

For a horse to be so competitive at such a high level for such a long time is a great credit to him, Pat Kelly and the owners. We wish Evening Attire the best of luck in his well-deserved retirement and hope to visit him at his new home.

Adrienne and Allen Nadel
Nanuet, NY

My favorite moments of Evening Attire are when he is put in the starting gate at post time, and his usual "slow/walk" when the bell rings to race!! It cracks me up because he literally gives the field a jump on him, yet this old boy will make up a lot of real estate if he is not too far back. I have seen him catch up to the "young" pack and even beat them on occasion in races. I am cheering him the whole time with tears running down my face with pride!!! Those are my moments with Evening Attire. I certainly will miss watching him run, but all good things come to an end.

His sire, Black Tie Affair, stands right down the road at O'Sullivan Farms. We breed all our mares at this farm and I get a chance to see Black Tie Affair every breeding season and I am always reminded of Evening Attire. My heartfelt thanks to the Kellys and grants for taking care of Evening Attire and letting us watch him race all these years. I love him like he is one of my horses!!!

Patricia Shockey
Charles Town,W. Va.

While most Capital District racing fans were unhappy when the patented late run of Evening Attire blew by the local hero Funny Cide at Saratoga in the Budweiser Breeders Cup race, it was unbelievable to watch those two iconic horses neck and neck down the stretch. I wish Evening Attire a long, happy, and healthy retirement and will miss watching him run very much. I can't wait for "The Evening Attire Stakes," named after a true legend!!!!

Pete Somers
Latham, N.Y.

Evening Attire made horse racing fun to watch. He always did things his way--he is a true New Yorker! During a turbulent time for horse racing, he was old school. Evening showed why longevity and stamina should be part of horse racing. It was thrilling to see him blow away his competition in his last race, the Greenwood Cup. Evening knew how to go out with a flourish. Thank you to all his connections for taking such good care of him and allowing him to have the happiest story in horse racing.

Terry Callahan
Edison, N.J.

A couple of years ago I stopped by my favorite Christmas tree lot. I asked about a white pine, but the owner told me he had none that year. He then showed me a gorgeous tree that I had never seen before, and he said it was a concolour fir. I asked him how to spell the name of the tree, as I had not heard of "concolour" before. That very night I curled up with my latest issue of The Blood-Horse, and turned to the stakes section to read about Evening Attire's latest win. There was his pedigree: his dam was Concolour, a fact I had never noted before. Same day, same name, just magic.

V. Lyn Powell
Charleston, SC

I just read in The Blood-Horse that Evening Attire has been retired. I only wish he would’ve stayed sound long enough to run in the Point Given at Monmouth Park the Sunday before last. After arriving from Seattle, we drove all the way down to the Jersey shore from New York before we found out the old boy had scratched. It would’ve been so great to see him race. I just love deep closers. It would be like seeing Silky Sullivan, I thought – a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

A few days later, after interviewing Angel Penna Jr. on the Belmont backside for a story I’m working on, I found Evening Attire at Pat Kelly’s barn and snapped a few pictures of him, so at least I got to see him. He was frisky and full of life. He didn’t know he’d retired.

After all the big Grade I races were over on Saturday, after Curlin had broken Cigar’s record, and after all the cheering had given way to silence, Joyce and I somehow wound up being just about the last ones to leave Belmont Park. We’d lingered quite a long time taking extra photos for Curlin’s owners, who were very nice, and by the time we got around to cashing our $50 ticket – good for just $70 – only a pair of high-roller windows were still open. The winners ahead of us in line were going through a lengthy process that included being photographed for the IRS before having their stacks of hundred-dollar bills counted out to them.

The grandstand had become a huge empty cavern as I sat on a bench watching replays with a scrub woman while Joyce went to freshen up. We’d probably go out to eat somewhere. “Curlin! Breeders’ Cup!” the scrub woman exclaimed in a heavy Spanish accent, pumping her fist in the air after Curlin won the Jockey Club Gold Cup on the TV screen for the umpteenth time. Then she went back to her bucket and resumed mopping the floor.

Finally, Joyce returned from the ladies room, and we’d just started heading out when – in an amazing coincidence – we bumped into Curlin’s trainer Steve Asmussen and his entire family – wife, kids, parents and a few others. This was the biggest day of their lives, and we chatted excitedly with them as we all walked out across the paddock together. When they turned right to go to the parking lot, Joyce and I headed left toward the horse tunnel that leads back to the barns, where I had to attend to one final little bit of business.

We could still hear the happy voices of the Asmussens and their small children ringing out in the damp night air as we descended into the tunnel. As we emerged on the other end, the whole backside was quiet and still, with the silence broken only by the occasional snort of a dreaming horse, or a groom scooting by on a bicycle in the drizzly darkness. Even the ubiquitous chickens and roosters had all bedded down for the night. I’d promised to deliver a magazine with the first installment of the article I was working on to Angel Penna’s barn. I dropped it off with his night man, who was sitting behind the desk in the office, right where I knew he’d be. It had been a long and sensational day – unforgettable – and we were dog tired. But I told Joyce that if we took one more small detour, I’d show her something very special.

We cut over a block on the Belmont backside streets that have names like Man o’ War Avenue and Secretariat Lane, past the shadowy forms of several barns. Dim night lights illuminated the shedrow of barn 22 as we walked slowly by on the abandoned street. When we’d nearly reached the end of the long barn, I whispered: “Okay... stop right here... and look right over there.” I pointed at a faintly-lit window, and there he was, the old man himself, Evening Attire, staring back at us with those big dark eyes, looking very much like a grey ghost – pale and luminous, almost glowing. “He’s so cute,” Joyce whispered. We stood that way for a few long moments, our gazes locked with the grand old racehorse . . . and then we walked on. I know I’ll always remember him the way he was that night, ghostly and glowing, looking at us so softly, so kindly. Good-night and good-bye, Evening Attire. We love you, old boy!

John Loftus
Contributing Writer Washington Thoroughbred Magazine

I recall on an opening day at Saratoga Race Course in 2003. It had rained quite a bit the night before in upstate New York, and the eighth race was rained off the turf and moved to a muddy main track at a mile and an eighth. My father and I were looking at the tote and there was one horse at 3/5. We were both wondering, is this horse that much better than all the rest? Boy, did Evening Attire show his stuff on that sun-splashed day, gliding over the muddy going to win convincingly. His coat was just beginning to turn a light gray at that time. Since that day, I’ve never missed watching one of his races.

I remember watching the 2007 Stymie at a simulcast location, seeing him lope along at the back of the pack, when Jose Espinoza gave him a crack on the far turn and boom! He split horses and won, not to mention allowing me to cash a nice $200.00 mutual.

Two years ago, I visited him in his "retirement" at Mill Creek Farm outside Saratoga. Wow, what an unreal sight – he was mammoth! I’m 6-foot-2 and he towered over me, going as far as to knock me -- albeit gently -- in the forehead with his nose, as his way of saying hello.

Best of health and luck in your retirement, old friend, you will be certainly missed by many horse racing fans. Enjoy your life on the farm, you've earned it!

David J. Bachinsky
North Greenbush, N.Y.

My favorite Evening Attire memory was March 22, 2008. That is the first time I met him in person. I was at the stable at 7 a.m., and it was worth it to get up that early and see him work out, then go to his stall and feed him. My dad always wanted to meet John Wayne; I always wanted to meet Evening. It was incredible. I was so impressed by him, and everyone around him, that I decided to get a license and become an owner myself. And I have never been happier. That memory will last with me forever, as will his website. Thank you all for being so nice to me.

Steve Andrus
Brooklyn, N.Y

I loved watching Evening Attire on the track in the mornings at Saratoga Race Course. Mary Ryan always pointed him out to the fans and made quite a fuss over him as he floated around the track. He was one of the most beautiful horses on the grounds, and his class showed even when he was just galloping. He always looked great and seemed happy. It was a real treat to see the old pro enjoying himself.

Renee Cook
Los Angeles, Calif.

One of my cherished memories is the 2008 Brooklyn Handicap. It wasn't televised, to my profound disappointment. In desperation, I called to listen to the race by phone. Evening Attire was languishing in last, his usual spot at beginning of every race, but then I heard the announcer's voice rise and become more animated as he described the Old Warrior gaining ground to come in second. I jumped up and down and cheered into the phone.

Have a great retirement and if you don't like it up there ,please do come back to watch over the youngsters as a saddle pony

Teresa Fasolino
New York, N.Y.

These are my favorite Evening Attire moments:

Most Courageous Moment: The Queens County Handicap, December 8, 2007. After a slow start, Evening "gives it his all" and nips Barcola at the wire.Most Enchanting Moment: Evening posing for pictures with his half-sister, Lisa B. at Saratoga.

Funniest Moment: (After his "retirement" a couple of years ago): Evening getting off the horse van in front of Pat Kelley's barn at Saratoga, bellowing, and running straight into "his" stall and rolling around in the hay. He was so happy to be back ! Most Amazing Moment: The Greenwood Cup, July 19, 2008. Evening saves the best for last, winning the Greenwood Cup by 8 1/4 lengths on a hot and humid day in Philadelphia, and sets a track record in the bargain. Truly amazing! Thank you, all the Kellys, and Mr. and Mrs. Grant. You are the best example of thoroughbred horse owners in the game today. We'll miss you, Evening Attire!!

Andrea Pollock
Saratoga Springs, New York

How can I select a single favorite moment from a beautiful horse who gave us nearly a decade's worth of memories? I will look back to all the happiness that Evening Attire brought to my life. My happy memories were not based on if he won or not. It was seeing his determination to win, and never quit. Nothing compared to seeing that beautiful horse come flying down the stretch, his eyes affixed on the leader. Many times he got the victory, but if his races were just a little longer he would never lose. This year he came in second in a mile and a half race at Belmont Park the day before the Belmont Stakes. As he crossed the finish line I thought that somehow they should find a way to sneak him into the Belmont Stakes the next day.

I'll remember watching him over the years as he turned from dark gray to nearly white. I'll remember freezing at Aqueduct in the winter every time he raced. If he could brave the cold, so could I. I'll remember the 2007 Stymie Handicap when he came blasting through a wall of horses to take the lead. Many horses would not chance going through a small opening, but we're talking Evening Attire here! I'll remember my favorite Evening Attire race, the 2007 Queens County Handicap. Just the emotion of screaming for him to win this again at age 9, and seeing him do it and head to the winner's circle was just so unreal. As he was being walked down the ramp to the paddock, my eyes were already filled with tears.

I will remember how my wife Paula and I fell in love with his customary, but oh so cute leisurely start in every race later in his career. He would walk out of the gate spotting the field several lengths. Going into the first turn, she would say he is too far behind, sometimes trailing the leader by 15 lengths as they hit the backstretch. I told my wife not to worry, he'll come running at the end, guaranteed. As the horses raced down the backstretch, we would lose sight of them so we would watch on the big screen. Of course he was never in front, or even in the picture, and I always told my wife to watch the right hand side of the screen for his little gray nose to start coming into the picture as they started to turn for home. I was never wrong.

I want to say a sincere thank you to Joe and Mary Grant for continuing to allow us to watch this loveable horse for so many years. Thank you to Pat and Tim Kelly for keeping him safe and watching out for him. Thank you to The New York Racing Association for acknowledging this great champion's retirement with a special day for him. It is fitting that it will be held on Breeder's Cup Day, the day that he would have possibly been running in the Dirt Marathon at the age of 10.

Evening, we will miss you. Congratulations on your successful and memorable career.

Though it is time for you to retire
We'll never forget those stretch runs so full of fire
Or your determination and desire,
You are one of a kind, Evening Attire!

Anthony and Paula Scala
Franklin Square, N.Y.

The Aqueduct winter meet has seen some frightful weather, and there was one such miserable day in 2002, when it was foggy with spitting snow and the temperature hovering around freezing. It was so nasty that Tom Durkin couldn't see enough to make the call on the backstretch or around the turn, but then we saw a gray form emerging from the swirling snow into the stretch and heard Durkin, with some surprise in his voice, say, "It's Evening Attire!" That just about sums it up: Evening Attire was courage on four legs, with a smile and a nod to the crowd in passing. Unforgettable.

Michele Wynn
East Dorset, Vt.

Before you know it, in a print of a hoof,
time carries one into greatness.
The wings of the gate fly open with life,
the gray is not in a hurry.
The grace, the elegance, the rhythm catching distance,
Evening Attire finds patience behind.
The turn appears through the blasting turf,
a thrust of vision becomes clear.
The gray tightens his muscles and his greatness swells,
speed quickens with deepening breath.
Around the turn to the outside he beckons,
we see it now gray, the line above the dirt is ahead.
I'll give you the reins to pass our contenders,
will cast our fate to our fans.
Thriving on stride to wind of destiny,
do you hear them call out your name?
Through the cheers of glory and gathering of time,
your legacy will live on forever.

Ellen Brayshaw
East Patchogue, N.Y.

We are race fans, but it’s not often we get to follow the career of a champion. We have owned harness horses ourselves, including our “champion,” MT Sullivan, a black stallion who raced until the age of 14, so we know what it means to have a great one who knows how to race, gives his best effort, and has left the young fellas in his shadow.

Evening Attire, we loved your last race at Saratoga. Thanks for the vision of the big gray charging to the finish. We are wishing you a lifetime of open pastures and an “old gray mare” to pal around with. Enjoy the good life.

And for those who love you, the memories will last forever. It just doesn’t get any better than this.

Richard and Teo Daley
Schenectady, NY

My fondest memory of Evening Attire is a fortunately personal one. It didn’t involve the crowd of the afternoon, but rather the company of friends during late morning on the backside.

It was Belmont week, and a couple friends and I were walking back to our cars from the gap on the main track following training hours. As we passed by the Kelly barn I saw my friend Tara in the courtyard. Not having seen her in a while, I yelled her name and bounded over to her, hardly noticing she was on the end of a shank. We started talking and she asked if I knew who the horse was. When I finally looked I, of course, immediately recognized the stately light grey as the old man Evening Attire.

We pat Attire as I continued to talk to Tara. Since we had our cameras on us, we decided to go ahead and take our pictures with him. Tara shoved candy into our hands to give to him.

“Watch this,” she said. As she turned to walk away with him she told me to crinkle a wrapper. I did and he stopped dead in his tracks and cranked his head back around for more candy, which I gladly handed over to him. If there ever was a horse who deserved being that spoiled, Evening Attire was it!

Alysse Jacobs
Mount Olive, N.J.

I was fifteen years old on Whitney Day 2000. At dawn, my dad and I drove up to Saratoga to take in the card. We made the usual stops when we rolled into town – Uncommon Grounds, paper hunt, he did Siro’s, I did the sales grounds … iIt was the annual trip to Saratoga.

But early in the card, something special happened. A handsome, dark grey two-year-old broke his maiden by a nose. And when I got home that day, I added him to my StableAlert. I noted him as “SAR grey” so I wouldn’t forget who he was.

Eight years later, it’s funny to think that at one time it seemed possible to forget who he was. The number of memories he has created over that time… beating Street Cry, the win in the snow at Aqueduct, officially winning the Saratoga Breeders’ Cup Handicap with a riderless Gander in front of him, the Jockey Club Gold Cup, the DQ in the Clark, when he decided walking out of the starting gate was cool (and winning anyway), meeting him, the round of applause he got after the Brooklyn this year, seeing him in the mornings, the Greenwood… I could go on and on.

When you fall in love with a 2-year-old winner at Saratoga, how often are you still cheering them down the stretch eight years later?
I’ll miss you, old man.

Susie Raisher
Merrick, NY

I just wanted to say that horse racing was a better sport because of athletes like Evening Attire. He didn't win every race he entered, but always gave a good account of himself. He beat some nice horses in his day -- Funny Cide, Street Cry, Harlan's Holiday, Balto Star and Lido Palace, to name a few. His running style was perfect for the route races and he seemed to measure his opponents and then outkick many of them to the wire. I was more aware of him during the success of Funny Cide, and whenever Funny ran, you knew Evening Attire was usually entered as well. They met nine times and in Funny's only race at Saratoga, Evening was the better horse that day. His last race, the Greenwood Cup, was one of his best and typical of his style. It would have been great to see him in the Breeders’ Cup Marathon, which I think he had a legitimate chance to win because of his style. His times this year at 12 furlongs as a 10-year-old are as good as some Belmont Stakes winners!

Guy Varcasia
Latham, N.Y.

Thanks for the memories, there are too many to single one out. Enjoy your retirement.

Angelo Grieco
Fort Myers, Fl.

The tears blurring my vision as I photographed Evening Attire turning for home in the Greenwood Stakes at Philly Park, I later realized were tears of triumph. Neither 100 degree heat nor age would deny Evening Attire as he awed in his 15th win, setting a track record.

My day had begun with a visit to Attire in his barn.  When I expressed concern about the oppressive heat, trainer Pat Kelly assured me that Attire's ten years had endowed him with wisdom:  he would not run if conditions were not to his liking.

Despite breaking slowly from the gate, as the field approached the final turn, Attire kicked in.  He thundered down the straight away, leaving the youngsters in his dust.

As I retired that night, I felt invigorated: Evening Attire had scored one for the seniors! As a 60 plus, late-in-life equine photographer, I finally understood my tears as ones of fulfillment and joy!

Carole Basile
Levittown, Pa.

I had the pleasure of meeting Evening Attire during his brief first attempt at retirement at Tim Little and Ann Morgan's Mill Creek Farm in Stillwater, N.Y.  The gentleness of Evening Attire made it real easy to make him one of my favorites.  It was evident at the time that he did not want to be at the farm resting in retirement which was proven when he was brought back to racing.  His famous exit from the gate always made me laugh and his strong desire to win always made me proud of him.  I look forward to watching next week's tribute to this amazing animal.  There is a quote that sums up my feelings for him "There's something about the outside of a horse that’s good for the inside of a person". 

Yvonne Curtis
Mechanicville, N.Y. 

All I can think of is how much I'm going to miss seeing Evening Attire on the track.  The smile he brought to my face each time he waltzed out of the gate will be hard to replace!  I had the pleasure of meeting this gentleman at Mill Creek during his hiatus a few years back, and what a gentleman he was.  Strikingly handsome, so attentive and so kind.  Everything you'd hope a horse would be.  I feel lucky to have seen him both on the track and on vacation!  Here's to a happy, healthy retirement.  Trainer and owner, you've done well by him.  Bless you, and bless Evening Attire. 

Colleen Leclair
Altamont, N.Y. 

Alice Moran
Bayside, N.Y. 

Evening Attire and his connections have dutifully earned another trip to the Belmont Park winners’ circle. That enclosure is like a second home for the venerable old gray gelding. His class was inherent, but his longevity is resultant of adept, in-tune handling. Race-goers recognized that the classy old warrior was unique and his eight-year campaign increasingly attracted more and more attention from the crowd. The game warrior always exuded well-being as contrasted to the gladiator-like appearance of so many of today’s Thoroughbreds. Fans learned to trust that he ran on his own terms. His popularity was galvanized by the security of knowing the horse was loved and well-cared for. Racing’s greatest accolades should be reserved for heroes like the Grants and the Kelly’s. Their compassionate horsemanship provided the right footing for their horse and simultaneously world-wide fans were attracted to Evening Attire and the sport of racing.

This poster-boy of racing will be happy to find that his retirement package will not cast him to the back forty. His connections learned early-on that his preferred life was in a training environment and most of all around people. The noble horse is headed to the late John Hettinger’s Akindale Farm and to a seasoned crew at the training barn who will read his needs like a book. This puts the perfect frame around one of American racing’s great success stories.

Hats Off to NYRA for celebrating this great team.  

Marilyn Lane
Saratoga Springs, NY  

The date was August 23rd, 2005. I had been taking pictures all afternoon, yet the best images from that day may be my memories. It was but a few minutes before the feature, The Saratoga Breeders' Cup Handicap (GII). “Twenty - win and place!” I said to the teller before hurrying over to claim a spot along the paddock approach. Seconds later I saw the gray, his handler donned in a red vest, the No. 1 emblazoned over his heart. Stoically, with eyes forward, they walked with purpose - it was race day after all. The sounds of the shutter tracked their path and the groom smiled a bit. He must have known I was there to see his horse. Quickly, I changed rolls as reds, grays and greens stunningly combined and reflected the late afternoon light - golden hour, the pros call it.

With a clamor the bell sounded and the gates sprang open. Anxiously, we watched as he loped along, unhurried and at the back of the pack. Yet at a mile and quarter I had faith - there was still plenty of time for my horse to unleash his signature closing run. But deep into the stretch I could only sigh as this would not be his day. “He’s seven, after all,” I mused. I tossed the tickets but felt little regret. I had seen one of the great ones, Evening Attire. In my camera I held the evidence, in my mind’s eye the memory, and in my heart the knowledge that he would be run again.

Dennis G. Hogan  

Evening Attire was a horse that was meant to be loved. After all, he was born on Valentine's Day. I have personally witnessed this at the track, true grit and steadfastness are his legacy. EA was always an easy horse to follow, even for the most uninformed newbie coming out to the track for the first time. Gray is an easy color to see in a canvas of mostly bay bodies. Even if there was another grey or you forgot his number, all doubt would be removed at the start. His carefree "Go ahead, burn yourself out, see you at the wire" slow starts are legendary. At the end, there was never any doubt, and really, isn't this where it matters most in life- not how you got there, but how you finished?

I am happy to learn his retirement will be at Akindale Farm, a place that has a wonderful tradition of taking horses off the track and giving them the respect and quality of life they deserve. As an added bonus, this wonderful horse nirvana is only about an half an hour away from my home in western CT, so EA can depend on at least one fan checking in on him.

Goodbye is such a final thing to say, so I will just say "So long," my courageous little one. If ever a horse deserves a book written as an example of the true spirit of racing, it is yours.

Till we met again...

Anne Migone
New Milford, CT  

It was the end of summer 2006, in Saratoga. As an invited house guest of the Grants, I was privileged to get the opportunity to hang around the barns and visit with their small band of runners. However, that year seemed a bit empty.

Evening Attire was still on the farm, but was slated to come to the track after a lengthy rest. I was told that Attire was growing quite restless. Even though I have not been around horses much, I had a difficult time grasping how a horse could relate that type of information. Attire was a talented and special horse, but I knew he couldn't talk.

Later on that afternoon, I saw it for myself. I now understood with complete clarity, as obvious anything could possibly be.

The van rolled in and I swear there was a horse in there that was possessed by demons. There was kicking and whinnying happening as soon as the truck turned into the barn area. It got more and more intense the closer it got. The horse they pulled out was none other that Evening Attire, who was happy as a clam to be back. In fact, I bet he would have wanted to run in a G1 that day! It was so wonderful to witness the old man so full of himself.

Attire will most likely not make it to the Hall of Fame, but I'm hard pressed to think of a horse that was more popular amongst the racing fans. He didn't win each and every time, but one things was always a guarantee... he'd give it his all. Why? Because he loved running and the game more than anything.

I know, because I saw it first-hand. All the best to you, Attire, and thank you for the wonderful memories. I will miss you greatly. A special thank you to the Grants, TJ, Pat Kelly, et al. who managed this gelding's career so brilliantly.

Michelle Gagnon
Ottawa, Canada

I cannot pinpoint one favorite memory of Evening Attire, because every moment had special importance to me and my family. Evening Attire was a part of my family, since his owner is my grandfather and his trainer my uncle. I think the happiest times he brought to us were his amazing victories. He had us at the edge of our seats, hoping that he would break from the back of the pack, and win it. When talking to my grandfather after the race, and seeing how happy he was, it made the experience all the better. When I give tours at Saratoga Race Course, I always speak about him, how he defeated all the odds, and won against horses far younger than him. He’s just like my grandfather, TJ Kelly. They are truly what horse racing is all about. It’s about the history, the moments that make this business what it is, it’s about those old timers who make you want to believe in miracles. It is for the exciting rush when he crosses the finish line that makes the entire experience worthwhile. I am going to miss their old grey guy in his stall, saddling in the paddock, being in the winner's circle. It makes me so proud to know that he has proved himself to be one of the greats like we always knew he would be. Thank you, Evening Attire, for making me realize why I love horse racing.

Shannon Kelly
Carle Place, N.Y.

You knew when Evening Attire was in a race he was going to show up and give it his all. Last out of the gate, lumbering down the backstretch checking out his competition, then stretching out those wonderful gray legs heading to the wire. Evening Attire, an inspiration, a hero, a legend.
Thanks for the memories.

Vernon & Sarah Ward
Yamhill, Oregon

I can't remember all the races by name but I started to watch Evening Attire in 2003. “Wow” is all I could think of when I saw him. Here was this big beautiful grey horse and he was always this big closer who came from last to win many races. I got totally hooked as I love closers and I really love the greys. He certainly was a real comedian the way he would just sort of saunter out of the gate. I don't know how many times and wonder how many neighbors heard me yelling and screaming “Come on, let's go!!!” My husband, though, I admit is not a huge racing fan, but I would always say I can't do something cause I HAVE to watch Evening Attire race. No way would I miss his races and if I had to go to work, I always made sure I had a bet on him.

I would like to say thank you to the Grants for bringing out a wonderful horse to watch and thank you for how you really really cared about him. Also to the Kellys who took very good care of Evening as well and also to all his connections. I was thrilled when he won the race to get him to the Breeder's Cup. I thought maybe I will finally get to see this big grey in person. Alas it is not to happen and I’m saddened by that. Even just to see him there without even racing would have been a real milestone for myself. But I am glad he is going out a winner. How I wished I could have been able to afford to buy him but am glad he is getting a super good home.

Evening Attire is what racing should be all about. Exciting and thrilling and caring and hopeful. I am so glad I had the honour of watching him and I hope he has many many great years ahead and I do hope we hear how he is doing in his new place.

I will wear his hat proudly too and think of him often!!! I am so going to miss him!
Thank you.

Carol Osborn
Bothell, WA

I love Evening Attire's heart, his intelligence, his determination and competitive spirit. Plus he's a handsome, dashing gray. I smile when I think of him casually stepping out of the starting gate like he was stepping out of a shower - then remembering, "Hey, I've got a race to run!"

My favorite race was when he won the Greenwood Cup Stakes at Philadelphia Park and set a track record at the age of 10. That was truly amazing. I will miss Evening Attire. I hope to visit him at his Retirement Home; and I'll proudly wear my Evening Attire hat.

Thank you to the Grant and Kelly families for taking care of their Old Warrior, loving him, and sharing him with his fans for so long. May God bless you, and your special guy, Evening Attire.

Cindy Marakovits
Bethlehem, PA

My son and I have followed Attire for most of his career. I just love the old campaigners that keep giving their all. My favorite memory is the 2004 Saratoga Breeders Cup when he beat Funny Cide at 7 to 1. I have a picture of my son and I cheering Attire on as he went past us to the track for the post parade. Last December 8 was a lot of fun too. We went to the harness track to place a bet on Attire. It was lots of fun to be part of the cheering that erupted when he won. I'm so glad his last race was a winning one. Thanks, Attire for all the memories.

Lois Lizardo
Malta, NY

There are so many memories of this horse. On every occasion since I have yet to encounter a day when Evening Attire ran that he was not applauded by fans. Even in defeat, he has been given respect and admiration of his adoring public and personally, I am honored to have been among them a few times, the last of which was the Brooklyn Handicap (gr. II) June 6 when he finished second. He received so much applause and cheers you would have thought he won the race. Delosvientos may have crossed the wire first but in the hearts of the fans, it was Evening Attire who truly won that day. It's something I will never forget.

Alli Janezic

Evening Attire is a great horse. Like Lance Armstrong, his endurance and sheer love of the game earned him a place in my all-time favorite athletes of any species. I remember seeing The Old Man work one day last summer at Saratoga. He looked good, at age 10, fit and fully in charge. There was no mistaking the classy grey as he walked out on the main track. He looked as if he owned the place. And he did, with our hearts along with it. The backstretch turned quiet as he worked 5 furlongs in just over a minute.

That was a really special moment in racing, one I will always remember, hearing the applause and “still got what it takes” from folks as Evening Attire walked off the track. There were younger horses working that day, and maybe one or two had some speed on him, but none quieted the track like the Old Man. We’ll miss him at Saratoga, but it’s great to know he’s going to a good retirement at Akindale Farm.

Evening Attire’s a special guy. We need more great horses like him – and owners and trainers like his – staying at the track for longer careers. As a fan of racing, I hope we see more incentives for older horses so we can follow them for several years.

Thanks, Evening Attire, for giving us all these years of your good work. It’s been a great ride. Wishing you a long and healthy second career!

Susan Hamlin
Saratoga Springs, NY