The historical demises of the Breeder's Cup Sprint favorites would have all the relevance in the world if they were the essence of Bold Brooklynite's argument . As per the gaggle of hyperventilating LITF goo-goos he describes, I have cruised 4-5 different racing forums for a while, and never have seen this horse compared to Dr. Fager, nor have I seen quite the cannonization he describes . But then his posts wouldn't be so dramatic, would they ? Before the BC, the horse was perfect, and had won in NY as well . He proved the most consistent sprinter and was deserving of the Eclipse last year . Saratoga County, IMO, was perhaps the best horse,but did not live to prove it. The LITF that ran in the BC unfortunately washed out pre-race, a critical factor to his detractors . Prominent early, he definitely chucked it when it counted . I agree with much of Phalaris' observations of him as a sprinter . I agree that more was expected of him than he ultimately delivered . It is hard not to dream when presented with ten perfect runs . I was a believer, though I always breathed normally . This year's model LITF is different . Physical issues have been admitted . What has not been discussed is that the horse, never pleasant tempered, has become rough and studdish . Far better animals than he have been compromised by "nads" . Count Fleet and Fair Play both lost races for this reason . Fair Play in fact, proved worthless at four because his mind was elsewhere . Fact, not excuses . LITF may run his race consistently and get beaten for whatever reason, but this last race was atypical . NO RESPONSE, NO SPEED . The con arguments would have far more merit had he gotten the lead, battled it out, lost it to a " better " horse, then finished up the track . He was a no show . To the poster who said all racehorses are frauds, I would be happier if the word fraud was replaced by fallable or not machines--otherwise the thinking is sound .
|