Thursday,  June 05, 2014 • Vol. 16--No. 322 • 28 of 30

(Continued from page 27)

• Christian fighters in the area have threatened to burn down the church and have made death threats against the priests who work there. One Muslim man who recently left the church was gravely wounded by Christian militiamen in town, Nary said.
• ___

What's a Triple Crown worth? Lineage and a new racing era complicate calculation

• NEW YORK (AP) -- California Chrome's bid for the Triple Crown on Saturday is likely to boost TV ratings and, if he wins, create a star for a sport that could badly use one.
• It will be a bonanza for the horse's owners, although their payoff will be limited by Chrome's humble parents and the racing industry's delicate health.
• Racing insiders say that if California Chrome becomes the first Triple Crown winner in 36 years, his breeding value is likely to be between $15 million and $20 million. That's a stunning return for owners who paid $8,000 for the horse's mare and another $2,500 to breed her to a stallion with a mediocre racing record.
• The horse could bring in millions more in sponsorships and book and movie deals. Shoe company Skechers just announced it will put its brand on California Chrome caps, clothes and horse blankets -- financial terms weren't disclosed -- and more deals are sure to follow if Chrome wins Saturday.
• The payoff, however, might fall short of expectations set by Chrome's team. Before the colt won the Kentucky Derby, his owners said they rejected a $6 million offer for a 51 percent share in the horse. After he won the Preakness, his trainer declared that he was worth $30 million.

Today in History
The Associated Press


• Today is Thursday, June 5, the 156th day of 2014. There are 209 days left in the year.

Today's Highlight in History:
On June 5, 2004, Ronald Wilson Reagan, the 40th president of the United States, died in Los Angeles at age 93 after a long struggle with Alzheimer's disease.

(Continued on page 29)

© 2013 Groton Daily Independent • To send correspondence, click here.