I was very surprised while reading the news today when I came across an article detailing the switch of Summer Bird from the barn of Tim Ice to that of Tim Ritchey. The four-year-old son of Birstone is owned by Drs. K.K. and Vilasini Jayaraman. They said a “lack of communication” was the reason they were removing 2009′s champion three-year-old colt and 24 other horses from Ice’s barn.

Many will recall Tim Ritchey as the trainer of Preakness and Belmont Stakes winner Afleet Alex. He is obviously very happy and excited about having such a talented colt join his stable. I’m sure he will do a wonderful job, but I can’t help but feel bad for Tim Ice. 2009 was his first full year as a trainer and he did big things with Summer Bird. He was able to win the Belmont Stakes, Travers Stakes, and Jockey Club Gold Cup with Summer Bird. This was despite the colt having raced just four times before taking his first Grade 1 event.

I’m disappointed with the Jayaramans. They have had over 89 trainers. That alone tells me that the problems lies with them and not Tim Ice. They have no reason to be unsatisfied with the work he has done. It’s a shame they can do this to him after all that he has done for them. Hopefully Tim Ritchey doesn’t become another name on the list of fired trainers.

Tim Ice’s barn has been reduced to just six horses, but he plans to find new clients.  He also plans to relocate and campaign horses on the New York circuit. I’m sure he will come out of this fine. He is still an excellent trainer and a large factor in success of Summer Bird. Below is a quote from Tim Ice published by the Associated Press.

Summer Bird means the world to me,” he said. “I would love for him to make a full recovery, and the new trainer is getting a very nice horse. He’s brought my career a long way, and he’ll always forever have a place in my memory.”

Summer Bird is recovering at Oaklawn Park from an injury suffered in Japan. It will be interesting to see where he races next. I’m looking forward to seeing him race against Quality Road again. I believe Quality Road was compromised by off tracks when they met twice in New York last year. If the race takes place on a fast track I think Quality Road will take him down. That will certainly be a great betting race.

How do you feel about Tim Ice losing Summer Bird? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment below.