04/06/2012 11:27PM

Remembering Wanda

By Barbara Livingston
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Twenty five years ago today, a bay filly with a streak down her face took her first breaths near her dam.  The old broodmare was named Obeah, a Jamaican word signifying an evil spirit.  Her newborn daughter would be given a name meant to ward off such spirits.

The filly did not last long on this earth - just 3 1/2 years - but, in that time, she became one of racing's greats. The day she drew her final breath - October 27, 1990, in the cold shadows of the Belmont grandstand - she became an immortal.  

Here are a few photos of the hauntingly beautiful - and timeless - Go for Wand.

Above:  Go for Wand and her regular jockey Randy Romero, after their win in the 1989 Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies.

Above:  Go for Wand at Belmont Park in October 1990.

Go for Wand's pedigree, past performances and related information: http://www.equibase.com/profiles/Results.cfm?type=Horse&refno=1127113&registry=T

Go for Wand's championship performance in the 1989 Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kIk9Q-F8_YA

A special thank you to Go for Wand's biggest fan, Paul O'Brien, for reminding me of the importance of today's date.

Catherine Bogan 11 months ago
She was born just eight days shy of two months after me. I was too young to remember her races - we were the same age, after all! - but I've always felt a sort of kinship with her, and with Unbridled. I can only wonder what might have been, what foals she might have produced, and if any of them would've been from crosses with Unbridled. We will never know.
Jo Ann Russell More than 1 year ago
Wow this brings tears to my eyes. I have had horses for 20 years, they have such heart I wouldn't trade my TB for anything. I dont remember Go for Wand, I am glad you shared you r beautiful photgrapy, and someone remembers her still. I love the photo of her getting her face sponged, her eyes half closed, peaceful, after a job well done. I will remember her on her birthday. Who is Paul O'Brian? Thanks for remembering Paul.
Yuwipi More than 1 year ago
Just a few words are so appropriate as accompaniment for these photos. That a beautiful fall day could turn so tragic is still difficult to deal with all these years later. I was standing on a bench in front of the Belmont grandstand, binoculars trained on the two leaders thinking that it just doesn't get better than this. Then I saw only one horse. It happened almost right in front of me and I'll never forget the crying and screaming. Best to remember her like you have here, as a true champion.
Michelle Harmon More than 1 year ago
Beautiful and simple. Thank you.
Lori Arrington-King More than 1 year ago
Thanks Barbara!! I cried like a baby when she went down!! I have her plate by Fred Stone in my living room so I can look at her pretty face everyday!!! Thanks For the great Pics!!! Happy Easter!!!!
Kathleen More than 1 year ago
She was a lovely filly. What a tragedy that we couldn't enjoy the races and wins of her offspring.
Babette Cade More than 1 year ago
Thanks for the remembrance.
Flora Andrews More than 1 year ago
What a beautiful remembrance. Saw her win the Alabama with my family on a wonderful day at Saratoga, and I always try to remember that and not the BC, but can't think of one without the other. Thanks for sharing these.
Stanley More than 1 year ago
Do you have a photo of her gravesite the day she was buried in the infield at Saratoga that shows roses spread on top of the grave? Those roses were sent by me. Stanley Marcinkowski, Plowville, Pa
Barbara Livingston More than 1 year ago
What a beautiful thing to have done. I photographed her grave that first day (probably while wiping away tears). There were only a few flowers there, so I'm sure yours were among them. I have a strange feeling there was just one group of roses...so it must have been yours.
laura ban More than 1 year ago
What a tragic day. She was and is still beautiful, thanks to you. Time will never soften that memory. Your work is priceless, never stop. Take care.