Dummies Question - Washed Out?
 

I'm ready to forget what I thought was "conventional wisdom" around a horse being washed out before a race. First it was Shackleford in the Preakness. Now Orb in Florida Derby. What does this really mean? When you see this, should you...

A) Run to the windows and place a win bet
B) Run to the windows and cancel a win bet you already made
C) Ignore it, because it doesn't mean much anyway
D) Ignore it, because it's effect is unpredictable one way or the other

What do you think?

Need to Know More
 

Is it hot?

Is it humid?

Past history of it?

How "Washed Out" is the horse?

How's he look otherwise?

Did they dump a bucket of water over him while saddling?

etc.......

Short answer if he's on his toes, I'm not gonna worry about it? Unless its toooo much.

I'd worry more, if the gates open and your horses tail has a hard on. Rip up your tickets and don't even bother watching the race.

As iron prospect explains, every horse -- and the circumstances -- are different. In terms of Orb specifically, Shug McGaughey addressed it today on ATR. He had the dam and the dam's dam and explained that it's a family trait. As long as Orb isn't subdued otherwise, he doesn't worry about Orb leaving his race behind the gate.