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Originally Posted by Betsy

I don't see there being much to lose by running Bernardini next year because, if he does run, he will be even better than he was this year. I would expect him to put up terrific performances, win or lose. He'll get fine broodmares no matter what - he's a spectacular speciman, beautifully bred and extraordinarily talented -I'm not worried about that, even if at this point Bernardini couldn't command what he would have had he won yesterday. I think the Sheikh's reputation is on the line, in a way. He prides himself on being a sportsman and that image would be shattered forever if Bernardini is retired. I don't know that he cares about that, though. I'm sure he loves this horse and is very proud of him -then he should want to see Bernardini fulfill his potential on the track. He's got years to be a sire, only a short while to be a racehorse.

Just because he should improve next year doesnt mean he will. And add possible injuries and other unforseen circumstances and you have a real crap shoot. His dam was a better 2 year old and his sister was fragile. There's a lot of variables you should take into account.

If he's retired tomorrow, he's almost guaranteed the best mares in the world. If he races unsuccessfully next year or is injured, there will be another "hype" runner to take some of those mares away. There always is...

Would I like to see him race next year? Absolutely. Would I blame the connections for making a shrewd business decision... no.