I can understand the argument that preps shouldn't be Grade 1s, and all these races are preps for the TC, but it doesn't make sense for other preps to be Grade 1s and the Arkansas Derby to be left out. I am guessing there was a dearth of good horses in that race for years and only recently has it had a resurgence and perhaps if it is strong again this year they will change it.
Personally I couldn't care less....though if a turf sprint ever becomes a Grade 1 I give up. Grade 1s are at least supposed to be for good horses.
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