Florida Derby thoughts...& Pletcher

[Grits]

Originally Posted by Cannon Shell

Pletchers staff does a good job but they are not the reason that he is winning.

Cannon, I agree with you . . . and I'd stand with you, 1000% if it were possible. I'd also venture to add, I don't think it has anything to do with getting the best stock either. This industry has been in existence far too long for one man's horsemanship to shine with a level of brilliance-- above that of all others.

[Cannon Shell]

Originally Posted by Grits

Cannon, I agree with you . . . and I'd stand with you, 1000% if it were possible. I'd also venture to add, I don't think it has anything to do with getting the best stock either. This industry has been in existence far too long for one man's horsemanship to shine with a level of brilliance-- above that all others.

Getting the best stock is about 92% of it. Todd is a very good trainer who would do good with cheap claimers or anytype of horses if he had them. But the truth is that it is not so much of what we do to or with horse than keep them healthy and point them in the right direction. If we all had the same amount of similar quality horses and he consistently kicked everyones ass I would agree with you.

[Grits]

You're a horseman, and yes, I certainly listen to what you are saying. Still, there are trainers that have fine stock in their barns. And on any given stakes day, with a great degree of consistency, this man is able to run by trainers like Billy Mott, Allen Jerkens, and others as if their horses are simply toiling, be it running on dirt or grass.

And to me, that's a shame. So, maybe we don't agree on Pletcher's skill level.