Quote:
|
Originally Posted by Sightseek
The comments for Birstone should read; "the sound of hearts breaking echoed throughout as he closed on Smarty Jones"  |
I was at the Belmont that year and was very excited right up to the 1/16th pole. It really is true what people say about feeling the highest highs and the lowest lows in horse racing. I remember watching Smarty Jones put away Rock Hard Ten and Eddington on the turn and put day light between him and the field, and then came Birdstone to run him down in the last 100 yards.
If you have the chance listen to Durkin's call it still sends chills down my spine.
"Its been 26 years, its just one more minute" or something to that effect as Smarty passed the 5/8ths pole.
Speaking of Smarty Jones reminds me of story about Karma.
My friend and his daughter were in the owners room at Belmont around the 4th or 5th race on Belmont Stakes day. Keep in mind that this a secure room at the track where only OWNERS and their families can gain access. My friends daughters asks my friend if she can get Mr. Chapman's autograph and he tells here to go ahead. She then asks the security guard "protecting" Mr. Chapman if she can get Mr. C. to autograph her program, and the guard lets her through to Mr. Chapman who tells her Flat out NO. I couldn't beleive that he would do such a thing.
Almost makes me happy he lost, still felt bad for the horse.