Connections notwithstanding, IMO, Curlin should win the HOY award based on the races in which he competed, and won (save for two on non-dirt surfaces).
That being said, I don't understand those who question the caliber of the competition that Zenyatta, an outstanding filly, beat. The number of legitimate Grade I fillies (Ginger Punch, Hystericalady, Music Note, Cocoa Beach) defeated by Zenyatta - in more races - during her campaign far outweighs the number of legitimate Grade I dirt horses who Curlin defeated (perhaps none) during his.
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