2/26 (GP): Fountain of Youth, Hutcheson, Davona Dale (G2's)

[blackthroatedwind]

Originally Posted by miraja2

Do you think it there might be a difference when it is a horse like this who doesn't need the graded earnings to get in?

On the one hand I'm always a bit hesitant to write off a disappointing performance on the grounds that the trainer didn't have the horse "cranked," because I'm somewhat skeptical of trainers ability to control when a horse is "cranked." On the other hand, with horses on the Derby Trail, where there is one definite goal race, I suppose it is possible that connections hold something back with a horse like this whose position in the field is already assured if he's healthy.

You are sort of suggesting it is some exact science where a horse has a certain amount to give and his trainer can sort of dole it out at will. That is not the case.

I guess what it really hinges on is Uncle Mo. If he keeps it together, the others are in trouble, but if he doesn't, it's wide open. But, it's hard to be overly encouraged by To Honor and Serve today, especially given the questions his 2YO races offered. He didn't give the right answer today. But, I suppose it's early. I just don't want him going forward. But, I also hated Soldat today.