2/16 (OP): Southwest S. (Gr. III)

[blackthroatedwind]

Originally Posted by Travis Stone

My point is, I thought he was the best of the group, and had a bad ride and proved himself as the superior horse in that crop at that time of year in the Preakness and Belmont. That said, Closing Argument ran harder, but never materialized beyond that race.

Does Afleet Alex deserve "The Derby"... well, did Giacomo? Lil E. Tee?

I never understood the " bad ride " argument. I thought he got a great ride and lost a horse race with 20 horses. It happens and that's one of the reasons winning the TC is such an elusive accomplishment.

Horses don't necessarily " deserve " to win races. They do, however, either win or lose them. Afleet Alex lost that Derby. Flower Alley may have " deserved " it the most if you really think trips should always dictate who was most deserving.