Charismatic's Derby Dream
By Nicole Schnurr

On a cold and blustery night,
a little chestnut colt was brought to life.
With four white socks, and a persnickety blaze,
his first sight of the world was nothing but a glowing haze.
With a grunt and a push, and on wobbly legs,
that determind little colt got up right away!
From that day on Bali Babe's chestnut boy,
was nothing but love and pure joy.
As the little colt grew up and became sturdy,
the farm employees thought that he was quite perdy.
No longer was this colt a foal,
but a curious yound stallion in search for a goal.
Yes, now this horse had a specific goal,
to recieve red roses when he passed the finish pole.
His name was no longer Bali Babe's kid,
but recieved a name of his own, Charismatic.
Training was a breeze, for this red young stud,
who even liked romping on the track that was mud!
The time had come, the decision was now,
should we bring Charismatic to Chruchill Downs?
Without a second thought the answer was yes,
D Wayne Lukas hoped that is wasn't a guess.
On the first Saturday in May,
Charismatic put on a most memorable display.
When the bell rang and the gate clanged open,
Chris Antly made sure that Charismatic wasn't loafin'!
With a leap and a bound, he was out of that gate,
this was the beginning of his most memorable fate.
Bay, grey and chestnut thoroughbreds all bunched together,
this day was perfect, even the weather!
Rounding the final bend,
Charismatic bounded, making his heart-stopping trend.
With a turn of his heel, he was off like a shot,
Chris Antly had to let him go, as Charismatic fought!
27 years ago, Charismatic's grandad ran in this race,
Secretariat was "The Man" in this special case.
Just like "The Great One" Charismatic flew,
and ran by so fast, the front running jockeys didn't know what to do!
He breezed by the stands, only a furlong to go,
the crowds now cheered "Charismatic GO!"
That same determination showed in that tremendous display,
when Charismatic won on Derby Day!