Yes, we know that or most know...prep races are nothing new. Starting a dirt horse off an extended layoff after running below form in their last races or races on turf for the 1st time should raise an eyebrow.

I don't think it should at all.

What I am suggesting is a start on turf off of an extended layoff for any non turf horse could be construed as something was or is amiss with the horse and they chose that race because turf racing is easier on a horse. Could it be a prep yes, could there be other reasons? Yes and no and maybe.

I think that when a horse like Tiago or Colonel John is off for any extended period like they were, you don't have to assume anything was amiss. You know it for a fact. Turf racing is easier on them than dirt racing but I don't think it's something that should make you wonder a little bit more about their condition because they are being brought back in a grass race instead of a dirt race. Because grass racing is easier, I've always thought it was better to prep for big races on dirt with grass preps because they aren't are hard on the horse as a dirt race but at the same time, they give you more conditioning than trying to get your horse to a big race off of works. They want to get Colonel John up to the Pacific Classic but don't want to throw him right into the fire in the San Diego and I'd imagine it's not the easiest thing getting allowances to fill for him so you try the grass. I just don't think it's as much of a red flag as you do.

Shirreffs said before the race that he was bringing back Tiago to get some prep in before the Breeders Cup and that Tiago HATED the poly so he opted to get a race under him on the turf.

And he sucked; if that was a prep they should retreat and regroup ASAP. He'll probably be retired by the end of the month, 4 days from now.

With the division being the way it is, he should definitely be sent to the Goodwood next.

If he hated poly, I wonder what Sheriff's opinion of Tiago is on turf?

I dont think Tiago could beat Bullsbay. How is it a foregone conclusion that he so easily could come east and win races like the Whitney? What has he done for you lately to make such a statement? Since when was Tigao such a killer on natural dirt? I must have missed those races.

Tiago is a slug.. He would have zero shot trying to beat sharp optional 75's

Take out Rail Trip and then tell me that the rest of the division in California really is anything more than optional 75s.

Tiago is still running?

sort of...