This dynamic duo is coming off a narrow defeat at the hands of Pacific Admiral last week in a needed effort, and they join forces once again in Saturday night's (March 13) co-feature where they figure to get plenty of respect at the windows.

"He's one of my favorites, no question," related Svendsen when asked about the son of Hi Ho Silverheels. "He's an absolute Cadillac to drive, because he can leave a hundred, but you can also take him back with two fingers. The bottom line is that he's all racehorse."

In his most recent tour, which marked his first start in three weeks, Rod's Famous Ribs, a 5yo Hi Ho Silverheels gelding, came from last with a :27 flat final quarter and came within three-quarters of a length of getting to the hard-knocking Pacific Admiral in that 1:52.4 mile.

"Even though he didn't win, I would have to say that's the best race he's ever gone for me," Svendsen praised. "From where we were at the three-quarters, I would have been happy to just hit the board, and he almost won.

"I called him a Cadillac before, but on that night he was finishing the race like a Ferrari. Pacific Admiral is a very nice horse, but he got the jump on us and we just ran out of ground."

While the latter is taking on Frankyluvsmeatbals this weekend in the Open Pace, Rod's Famous Ribs and Svendsen suit up in an optional $20,000 claimer that finds them facing stablemate Ivegotwhatuneed, the tough-as-nails mare Sintillating, Ideally Magic, Star Time Kid and At Last. It should be interesting.

For the next three weeks at Cal-Expo, you can experience the thrill of riding in the starting-gate during a race when you make a donation to the V Foundation, named for the late North Carolina basketball coach Jim Valvano.

Sign-ups will be at the paddock on a first come, first serve basis, with two people joining starter Bill Vallandingham and driver Kenny Fowler for each race in what is guaranteed to be both exciting and educational.

A reminder that every Thursday and Friday night, the Meadowlands features a $35,000 guaranteed Pick 4 pool, while Saturdays at the Big M showcase a $75,000 guaranteed pool. The Pick 4 consists of races 6 through 9 and you can wager at Cal Expo or any simulcast facility in California.

Mark RATZKY