Ron the Greek
 

Is this a serious contender that just used a lower profile path to contention? As the distance increases does it help or hurt?After this performance do they look to replace the jock? Personally, I love to see a horse like this emerge but I hate the quesion of replacing the jock.

Dont about him yet. The horse he chased down will hold on next time out I think. He's a really deep closer. If he encounters any trouble during any part of hs charge in the lane he doesn't get up for the win. Great run by him but he's like the old horse Concern wrecker's or checker's.

As the distances get longer, I don't believe he will be able to last. But, it still is early and knowing Calhoun he'll probably try to get the graded earnings to go to the Derby.

I just watched the race and thought Maximus Ruler was much more impressive than the winner. He was pushed all the way through fast early fractions, put away the others who were close to the early pace (including Cool Bullet who isn't bad) and demonstrated solid effort and stamina in the final 100 yards, and was only passed by a decent one-run closer who had the race set up perfectly in front of him.
In the bigger 8.5f and 9f races this spring, I think Maximus Ruler is more likely to be a factor than Ron.

Couldn't agree more, I thought Maximus Ruler ran a terrific race and am still not sure what exactly he was doing on the lead. I think he'll probably learn a lot from yesterdy and seems to be gradually improving.

NT

I agree about Max but dosent Ron fit the profile of last years winner? One run deep closer is a well used term. What I would like to know is how far is that run in the clasic distance?

I was surprised Maximus was on the lead as well. Tough fractions and pressured most of the way. I assume he was on the lead because of the post position and didn't want to get shuffled too far back.

The long stretch run at the Fairgrounds may have favored Ron in running down Max. Would you consider that as a fair statement?

I had to doublecheck to make sure that Centeno or Russell Baze weren't on Maximus. Real nice ride.:rolleyes: