Joel Rosario

[dalakhani]

Originally Posted by DaHoss9698

I just watched the replay of the race 5 times. I'm not sure "choke" is the right word either, but his decision to go outside instead of stay inside like Valdivia did absolutely cost him the win. I'm not sure how that can even be debated.

But, up to that point he had his horse in a perfect spot. No shame in getting outridden by Valdivia on the turf as I think he's a fantastic turf rider. But, Rosario should have won that race IMO. And I can absolutely understand someone that bet Obrigado having a beef with the outcome or thinking that the rider of Obrigado cost the horse the win. Especially with the finish so close.

I disagree with your assessment of the horse's chances. How do you know that if Obrigado stays inside that smullen doesnt try to shut the door on him inside? Remember, he whips left handed around the turn forcing Obrigado outside two paths. Champs, on class, is about 20 lengths ahead of Obrigado on paper. How do you know champs doesnt break outside for the big run?

All of these different factors and you can say unequivically that the ride cost him the race? Valdivia is an excellent turf rider but he its easy in a race like that to sit chilly when you are on the best horse. If he gets shut off inside, champs is good enough to make a run to the outside. Does this not make any sense? Or are you really under the notion that Obrigado was "much the best" in any race that isnt claiming?