Changing Horses Mid-Stream

The Preakness is going to be quite a race. New owner, Jess Jackson, has revealed that if all goes according to plan, he is going to supplement Rachel Alexandra to the Preakness. And Calvin Borel, her regular jockey, has agreed to ride her.

Which of course leaves Mine that Bird, jockey-less, although lots of options are being bandied around. One is Mike Smith, a Hall of Fame rider with a knack for riding come from behind horses. The other is Chantal Sutherland, who just happens to be Mike Smith's girlfriend and is one of Mine that Bird's regular riders. Wouldn't you just love to be at that kitchen table?

Regardless, it is a historic move, changing horses mid-stream and not just any horse but the Kentucky Derby winner. I can see the issue both ways. Borel obviously has a lot more invested in his relationship with Rachel Alexandra, having ridden her for most of her career. At the same time, it is almost unheard of to abandon a Derby mount, especially for one that poses direct competition to the Derby winner.

Some have argued that it would have been better for racing in general if Borel has stayed with Mine That Bird. Others understand his decision based on longevity. I think that either way, it is good for the sport. People are still going to tune in to see if Mine That Bird has a chance at the Triple Crown. And now they have another reason to watch: to see if Borel made the right decision.

Either way, it is shaping up to be an interesting and exciting race and that always bodes well for the sport.