Delta Jackpot takes on importance this year

Originally Posted by Linny

My suggestion would be a point system. Graded earnings are worth pints but G1's worth more than G2's etc. Also route races would count for more than sprints and 3yo races would be worth more than 2yo races.

Honestly, I really don't think the system is flawed right now, as long as owners are fair and don't take advantage of it. The owner of a speedy sprinter with no route graded earning but plenty of 2yo form and $$$ in sprints could prevent a contender from getting in. This just doesn't happen that often.
For the most part, the horses in the Derby are the ones that belong there and the ones "kept out" but the rules (RHT for example) are usually out for a reason. Lets face it, every trainer knows the rules. If they skip races and cherry pick their spots or play games with the colt's schedule, the run the risk of being bumped.

There are all sorts of ways you can use to come up with the Derby field. However, there really hasnt been a horse that was left off that really had a shot at winning the derby. If the horse does get left off because of earning, then it is doubtful that the horse would have enough points earned.