Fantasy Lane Thoroughbred Racing Stable

Letter of the Month

Some, if not most of you, are probably wondering what FLS stands for!? Well, I ‘m going to tell you. Fantasy Lane Stable is the Thoroughbred racing stable that I happen to have the distinct honor of being a part of. Founded in 1999, by Mr. Robert Hutt, Fantasy Lane has brought an inexpensive way of participating in the ownership of Thoroughbred Horses in the Sport of Kings.

I recently had the opportunity, along with my sister Alyson and our dad Charles, to partner into FLS. I couldn't have been more on the money with my decision! We got involved because we all love Horse Racing as a sport. In our busy lives, where sometimes things get hectic, we all have a common place that we love to go to…….the track! We love to go, we talk Horses, talk handicapping strategies, make our $2 wagers and enjoy the day and each others company. We all have enjoyed that special place for many years.

When this opportunity arose, we decided to get involved because we wanted to see the other side of racing, we wanted to get our feet wet. To put it mildly, our feet are soaked. From the first day, before our check had cleared, Mr. Hutt started teaching us. The information from emails. An occasional phone call. The knowledge and prowess flows from him. He is never to busy for you to ask a “dumb” question, in which he backs up by saying “there are no dumb questions”. The gentlemen treat all of us as if we were 51% share holders. And we appreciate all that he does and all his efforts.

So, with all that being said, come in and meet our babies. We currently have a filly and a gelding. The filly is named Kimberley Diamond, named for her diamond patch on her head and the world famous Kimberley Diamond Mine. We all hope that she is a diamond in the rough! Kimmy D is out of sire Posse and dam Aisle Seeya.

Our gelding is a special one. We are all very excited to see what he can do. But as I am learning, all in do time! Smart Justice is his name. SJ is out of world famous Smarty Jones (2004 undefeated Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner) and dam Sheza Honey. SJ is from the first crop of foals from Smarty Jones. Only time will tell if he is a chip off the old block. Fingers crossed!!

Both are stabled with Mr. Alan Seewald at Seewald Racing Stables. Mr. Seewald is the trainer for FLS. Upon meeting him, one of New Jersey’s most respected trainers, I understood why he is involved with Fantasy Lane. Besides love and respect for these gorgeous creatures, his personality parallels Mr. Hutt’s. They both want to teach you as much as they can and have no problems doing so! I, we, couldn't be happier with our choice. When you surround yourself with good people, good things happen.

Note: September 25,2008 It’s 8 months into my rookie year with FLS and to tell you that I have learned a lot is an understatement. I try to keep my mind “spongy” and absorb as much knowledge as I can with all the emails and conversations that I have with the Management and other partners. As much as I am learning, I am also noticing different things as well.

Case in point……………..“Care and Custody”. This is a phrase I personally am acquainted with due to my professional life that spans for the better part of two decades in Corrections. It recently came to light, a dilemma for placing certain horse(s) into specific races. With inclement weather in the forecast and a host of other variables that came into play, the decision process for Mr. Hutt became a difficult one. After reviewing all the facts, the horse was scratched from the race days prior even after paying entry fees. It wasn't that he didn't think the horse could win, I am sure he would have passed on the opportunity without paying the fees, it was for the well being of the animal. It could have ultimately knocked the horse out for the rest of the season or worse.

The point to my rambling is this: There is NOT a “Barber Pole” in front of Seewald Racing Stable! There isn't anybody shouting “Next”! These people care for these animals personally and they know we are “investors”. Even though Alyson, my Dad and I did not do this for money, we do it for the love of these precious animals that we all wish we could take home with us everyday! Mr. Hutt and Mr. Seewald “get it”. It is a real shame other outfits don't. I am extremely grateful for this, and this is another reason I am proud to belong and proud to know such great people!

Benevolently,

S.C.O. John Popovich
U.C. Corrections

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Bob,

As you're aware, I don't usually have much to say; however, I felt it "timely" to once again take this opportunity to thank you for all you do for me, as well as all the partners of FLS, and also for the horses under your care and management on our behalf. You are truly one of the best in the business in so far as analyzing racehorses, especially those unraced and untested two year olds, as well as making crucial decisions on all the partners' behalf. You're phenomenal in what you do for all of us.

As you're aware, I've owned horses that have raced in the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness, the Belmont, The Breeders Cup, and the Dubai Races, as well as many others across the entire world, such as winning the Queen Elizabeth II Cup with Irridescence, defeating Ouija Board in doing so (and as you're also aware, I have a nice percentage of success with many other individuals). I've been fortunate enough to have had approximately 12 different Grade I winners over the years. I've been in this business for about 25 years now and I just want you to know that I consider you to be a fantastic managing partner and I appreciate all you do.

Please feel free to share this with other FLS partners. Perhaps I have more experience, not only in years but also in success, than any of your other partners and I want to re-emphasize to all the partners my total and complete confidence in your ability, as well as my total confidence in all aspects of this business and your attention to the details benefiting the partners, as well as the racehorses under your management.

Thank you, Bob.

Steve
Business Executive
Signal Mountain, TN

"The Fantasy Lane program is by far the one of the best partnerships available in thoroughbred racing!

#1 – Costs associated with the program are realistic and fair vs. the other syndications where the cost per unit and training expenses have built in profit for the company.

#2 – Bob has an incredible wealth of knowledge and experience in thoroughbred racing and loves to share it with his partners.

#3 – The 2 YO Auction purchase process is simply exhilarating, from targeting the OBS 2 YO in training prospects to watching the auction online and then naming of the horse, the entire process prior to running a race is quite fun!

#4 - Bob surrounds himself with the most knowledgeable trainers and thoroughbred experts in the country, that’s why he has one of the highest win and in the money percentages of thoroughbred partnerships / syndications. Have a great day!"

John Jackson; Northfield, NJ; Owner of The Hotel Experts LLC
http://www.achotelexperts.com

Bob,

Now that you hopefully have had a chance to settle down a little, I wanted to take some time to let you know how much I appreciate all the efforts that you, Alan and the entire team have made to make this an incredible experience for me and my family. As I said in an e-mail to you earlier, your ability to communicate and relate to those us sitting at home made me feel as close to actually being there as possible. Your constant updates are extremely interesting and informative, and keep us involved.

As a personal testament to your patience, knowledge and enthusiasm, I have to tell you that my practice of researching an issue, particularly one of which I have no knowledge, to an agonizing level of detail before I make a decision, is well known, documented and thought to be particularly annoying by family and friends. Yet, as I set out with a list of stables to investigate, after our initial conversation my call to you was the first and only one that I felt necessary to make.

I stated at the beginning of our conversation, that I basically knew nothing about horses, breeding or racing and you took a great deal of time to explain just what was involved and to address all my questions. In fact, if I felt uncomfortable at all, it was because I felt that I was taking up too much of your time. I made the decision on the spot and I believe it to be one of the best that I've ever made.

Just as a small example, when I mention my 11 year old daughter in an e-mail you immediately put me in touch with Jeorge who printed her a certificate stating that she was a partner in Cobra Strike. How great is that?

Well, I don't want to ramble on, I just want to thank you for all that you've done to make this experience so enjoyable for me and my family. And, as I've said before, we haven't even been to MP yet where we look forward to meeting you and thanking you in person.

My best regards,
Rina, Joe & Liana DeCredico; Lockheed Martin Aeronautics; New Jersey

I have been with FLS since 2004/2005. I am an extremely proud partner of four. There is no other organization that I would rather be a part of. It has been a great three years and I hope to continue for many years to come. Everyone involved in FLS has been absolutely wonderful; beginning with Mr. Hutt, the head of the organization, our trainer, assistant trainers, exercise riders, veterinarian, stable hands the list goes on and on. A truly great bunch of people that I am so proud to be associated with. Being a part of FLS is such a hands on experience, and if you ever wanted to learn about all the ins and outs of horse racing, this is the place to be. More importantly though is the love and affection that each of the above mentioned have for these magnificent creatures. These horses are in the best hands that they could possibly be in and that's what matters most. So thank you FLS and keep up the good work.

Lorraine Sellers; NYS Courts; Staten Island, NY

Hi Bob,

It has been a great couple of years being a partner in Fantasy Lane; a great learning experience. I have met a lot of nice people and, of course, there is nothing quite like the feeling in the Winner's Circle. I kind of equate a visit to the barn and watching the horses working out like going backstage to a Broadway play.

Joe and Maryann Locicero; Government employee; Saugerties, NY

Bob,
I have been a partner with FLS for just about (1) year now and I have to tell you that it has been more than I could have hoped. There are so many great aspects, but since I live in Orlando, the one that impacts me the most is the level of communication that is shared with the partners. I have to say that I always feel truly involved and informed.
Everything is done on a first class level and while it is a business, the personal touch is always apparent. I love the fact that the welfare of the horses is first and foremost. Additionally, it is because of the great communication that each horse has become important to me personally, whether I own a part of him/her or not. In one year, I have
gone from wanting to get back into a family childhood business with no vested interest to an involved partner of (3) wonderful young thoroughbreds with bright racing futures and most recently (1) retired thoroughbred for pleasure. Hats off to you, Alan, Linda and the rest of the crew for a job well done.

Sincerely,

Kelli Smith; UCFPD Police Lieutenant; Orlando, Florida

"Bob,
Thanks for the wonderful Holiday Greetings.

I just want to wish all of you at Fantasy Lane the very best for the upcoming New Year. You should all know that your collective success is not measured by the number of times you "cross the wire" first, although as partners we love it when you do. For me, your immeasurable success comes for your true passion for the greatest game on earth and your commitment to teaching those of us who share that passion.

What I have learned from FLS during the past year has been worth the price of admission alone. In particular, your special care in answering questions, even the tough ones, and taking so much of your time to update the various partnerships. Your dedication seems to have no limits.

So my Holiday wish for you, Alan, and your entire staff, is that your passion burns stronger and brighter than ever in 2005. If it does, it will continue to illuminate those of us who, like you, dream the dream everyday.

A Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year to you and yours!"

Best Wishes,
Bill Borrelli; Pilot; New Hampshire

"Dear Friends at Fantasy Lane Stable,
The first order of business is to say a heartfelt "Thank You" to Bob, Alan, Frank, Gino and everyone in the office at Fantasy Lane Stable. If it wasn't for you guys, my lifelong dream would never have come true.  I would never have been in a position financially to own my own horses.  Thanks to all of you, I not only own one thoroughbred race horse, but a part of several horses.

Bob, you are a great business manager; Alan, you have proven to be a wonderful and knowledgeable trainer and; Frank, uh, um, a great cheerleader and morale builder!!!

Finally, I have to say that I am even more enthused about Fantasy Lane II because it promises to be another great ride with more horses in the barn and more tracks to race them on.  Can't wait to go to Florida!!!

Thanks also, for the friendship that has developed between all of us.  Not only between the limited partners and the staff, but many of the limited partners have become friends with each other.  It is a good feeling.

Thanks again."

Sincerely,
Michael A. Gilyardi; Social Worker; Kingston, NY

"Bob,
It was great being there as my wife and I had a great time. Alan was wonderful; even though I know he was busy, he had all the time for us. A great experience being there for the first time as a horse owner, rather than being there as a spectator just watching the races. Bob, I just want to thank you for giving the average race fan a lot more. Hopefully, CC runs in the next couple of days so I can make it there again and, hopefully, be in the Winner's Circle. I would like to have that picture. HA, HA. As always, very optimistic.

Thank You and have a great day and good luck up in Monmouth Park."

Thanks,
Victor Anido

"Dear Bob,
I am a practicing attorney. There are many times that I would like to escape and forget. I previously thought Disney World was my best escape. However, thanks to FLS I found another way to relax. It has been wonderful to be able to go to the stable and actually be with horses that you love as your own. The stable represents another world where the pressures of everyday life do not invade. It has become my second Disney World.

You mentioned your Dad in the Newsletter. FLS has also offered me a special opportunity with my parents. They had never been to the track. This past year we brought them with us and it was a very special day. My Dad enjoyed himself so much that my parents have joined FLS II.

I am so very glad that we answered your ad last spring. We have enjoyed every moment since then with FLS. It has been a pleasure to know you, Alan, Gino & Frank. Hopefully this ride is going to continue for a long time. Thanks again for a great season."

Regina E. Schneller; Attorney; Freehold, NJ

"Dear Bob,
It was a pleasure meeting you Frank, Alan & Gino. It was a most enjoyable experience. I only wish I could have spent more time. I look forward to seeing you and the "crew" again."

John Talerico; City Official; Utica, NY

"Dear FLS,
I wish you happy holidays. We have been thinking "roses", not impossible..eh? We have been impressed with the work Bob, Alan and Frank have done all year. We had a great time and are very excited about the new season. Keep up the great work."

James Broxmeyer; Proprietor; S. Bound Brook, NJ

"Hi Bob,
I just wanted to say what a pleasure it was speaking with you. You made an uncomfortable situation much easier in that you took the time to answer my questions and explain any concern I had with great care and knowledge. I appreciate that very much."

Tom Cannarozzi; Restaurant Owner; Woodridge, NJ

"Dear Bob,
I just wanted to thank you, Alan, Gino, and Frank for all you have done for my family and I. FLS means so much to us. For me, it has opened up a whole new world. As I grew up, my parents would take me to the track and I would have so much fun. I have always been around horses, but I have never been part of it... until now. You were right when you told me there was nothing like having your horse win. When we go to watch them run, it's an unbelievable feeling inside. To have your own horse crossing the finish line is a very special thing. I have grown so attached to Siftaway, Red and all the others. They are part of my life and so is FLS.

Even though I am only 16 years old, you guys have made a big impression on my life, and I am so grateful for it! Maybe when I get older, I will become a great trainer like Alan, hey you never know! Thanks again for everything."

Love Always and forever,
Gina Marie Schneller; College Student & Equestrian; Freehold, NJ

"Bob, Frank, Alan and Gino;
Just a short note to thank you for all the thrills and excitement you gave us through the summer. Also for your friendship and info all season. It's something I never could have done it without you. See you in FLS II."

John & Jan Rients; Automobile Service Mgr.; Bradley Beach, NJ

"Thank you. It was a great racing year for all of us. We had a great time."

Rosalie, Nick and Paul Cardone; NYC Transit; Bronxville, NY

"Sensational weekend, Alan, Gino, Bob, Frankie. What a great showing. Thank you for never saying never. Awesome, total, hard, intelligent skills have paid off. Now we know how the breeders' winners must feel. Thanks again for this super satisfactory weekend."

Sharon & Peter Coppolla; Owner Personnel Agency; New Jersey

"Bob, Alan and all,
Sorry we could not make the Meadowlands, but saw all the races at Monmouth. What a great two evenings for us all! Thanks again to Allen and Gino, great job. I know how everyone in the paddock felt, I've been there and will be there again. Hope everyone is back for FLS III. Good luck to JR Tuesday."

Jan & John Rients; Automobile Service Mgr.; New Jersey

"Bob,
Last night was our first experience as part of FLS II. It was a long time coming, but well worth the wait. We had a great time and felt the excitement of being part of a wonderful group of people. Win or lose it would have been a fun night just being there, but to top it off Dancer's Wish ran a great race to add to our excitement."

Thanks again,
Clem and Linda DeLucia; Automobile Dealership; Connecticut

"Bob, Frank, Alan and Gino,
Thank you so much for a thrilling year of racing. We love being part of the FLS family. You are all excellent at what you do and make it so much fun for us. Look forward to another exciting year in FLS III."

Good luck to us all,
David and Melissa Marinello; Website Manager; Virginia

"Hi Bob,
Congratulations to all of you. You deserve lots of credit, not only for your hard work but also for your positive attitude and patience during the "valleys" and for making FLS II a fun experience."

Again thanks to all,
Lynn Smith; Teacher, Guidance Counselor; New Jersey

"Dear Bob:
I spent about an hour with Marty (Digrius, assistant trainer) at the barn yesterday to begin my 'backstretch education.' Marty took the time to answer all my question and I watched as the horses had their dinner. It's great to be involved in FLS IV. You put together a great team."

Best regards,
Ron Occhino; Advertising Manager; Connecticut

"Dear Bob:
I wish I could make it down to the barn tomorrow morning to watch Can't Ecscape Me work, but I can't. Tomorrow, I leave for sleep-away field hockey camp at Rutgers. I would have loved seeing her work from the gate.I love watching this filly- she is something special. But I have seen all of the hard work and dedication you, Alan, and Marty put in. My dad and I are grateful to all of you for that.

I leave camp late Thursday morning so I will be rushing home to try to get back for Let's Get Lucky's race. If we do not make it in time, good luck to everyone! Don't worry, I know we will all be in that Winner's Circle soon!"

Hope to see you soon!
Alli

"Hi Bob,
Just a short message to thank you and Carol for making our visit with you not only enjoyable but a memorable event. Your hospitality and generosity were gratefully appreciated. I stopped in at Woodbine on the way home and had a visit with the chap I mentioned to you and presented him with the Monmouth cap. He couldn't have been happier. Again thank you greatly."

Barney and Margaret Mckillop; Ontario, Canada

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