Watch the replay from the gate into the first turn.
Gomez turned down the inside and the lead going into the first turn.
He could have rated a slow 50second half on the lead or he could have changed the dynamics of the race and set a 48 half.
Probably 4th best regardless.
Beyond the start and pace decision:
On light viewing Gomez appeared to do a pretty good job of rating Hard Spun. In a quick look, I didn't see obvious signs of the horse fighting the jockey. If that is the case overall it wasn't the worst ride in history. If however Hard Spun never settled into a pace and actually fought Gomez all the way around then yes overall terrible ride.
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