Derby Thoughts

Here are my thoughts about the 2010 Derby in no particular order:

Calvin Borel has claimed the Kentucky Derby for his own and it is going to be hard to take it away from him. Go back and look at that replay and you will see what a perfect trip he gave Super Saver as well as how close he rode to the rail. That inner inch of track was practically untouched and may have been one of the few dry spots on the track, simply because no one hugs the rail like he does. Borel rode two earlier races yesterday and he knew exactly where to put his horse on a very off track.

Ice Box is an impressive horse. Go back and watch that replay and focus on him. He got cut off about three times when his jockey tried to get through, which meant hauling him back in and refocusing him. He must have gone around 18 horses when he made that late charge and he was FLYING at the wire. Give him a little longer distance and a few less horses and he is going to win one of the Triple Crown races.

Don't listen to me as far as handicapping goes. Backtalk was dead last. OK the track was horrible but he didn't do much. Neither did any of the highly touted "mudders" like Awesome Act or Stately Victor.

For all his unluck, Lookin at Lucky (who got a horrible trip in that number one post position) ran gamely. I don't think he liked the mud but I also think he got a really rough trip.

If I had had a horse in that race, I think I would have scratched. We are so lucky no horse broke down but we will still be learning about after effects of running on a sealed, sloppy track for a while.

And poor Sidney's Candy did not like having mud splashed in his face. He was fine when he was in front, but stopped as soon as they began going around him and getting him dirty. The synthetic to dirt switch is still problematic.

Do I think Super Saver is a Triple Crown horse? I don't think so and I do think Ice Box may spoil his attempt.

Anyone think this just makes Lenny look better?