Well Groomed

Thoroughbreds on race days — well groomed
criss-cross patterns raised on gleaming flanks
manes plaited in tight control,
flying free they romp home barely
gripped by balanced knees
a little jockeying required.

A mane of tossed gold — signal
start to well groomed romp,
gleaming flanks raised with balanced ease
under his tight control
nights race.