The graded earnings stuff is starting to reach fever pitch. I think this year it could really blow-up depending on how a few things shake-out.
A horse like El Padrino, having won a "key" 3yo prep and having run a decent enough race in the Florida Derby, is more deserving of a chance than say a 2yo sprinter. Went The Day Well, whether you like him or not, is supposed to be in the gate for the Derby, but is currently 19th. Yes, I know, a lot can happen between now and May (and a lot will), but still.
I'm sorta tired of the "when was the last time a legit horse was left out" stuff because suddenly, particularly this year, graded earnings are more common than 7-Elevens's and Circle K's.
On the flip side, it feels as though this system is going to force trainers to actually run their horses a bit... and the "two prep" method might suffer a bit, which is a good thing.
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