The "great" arguement is one that has no right or wrong, until the story is really over, and even then it might not. I am a bit biased here on this horse. However, even with that being said, I don't throw around the "great" word that often in this context. "Great" performance, yes, I can say that, and perhaps often, but that's a different context.
I always thought this horse has "great" potential -- from day one. I thought what he did in his first few starts and through the Belmont could have been considered "great" and I wouldn't have argued with anyone who said it. You just don't see that kind of thing happening. Well, now, we have Big Brown to watch. Kind of ironic.
People critisized Curlin's Derby as his traffic trouble wasn't that bad, wasn't as bad as so and so, etc. I don't know why. People critisized his Preakness as he caught a Street Sense who fell asleep, barely won it, etc.. I don't know why. People critisized his Belmont that he got beat by a filly, couldn't beat a filly who got a lousy trip, had every advantage to beat a filly, etc. I don't know why.
I know people critisized his Haskell as he didn't run, was flat. OK, that I know why. Got it. Should we keep going? You beat who you beat, and you beat who shows up. People were talking about Lawyer Ron at the Spa and said he would toy with Curlin. Then it was horse for course and all that.
Anyway, I am glad we get to watch this horse this year and I hope he keeps going, gets better and stays healthy, fit and sound.
Eric
|