Baffert Fined

[Downthestretch55]

Originally Posted by oracle80

Well you are definitely in the minority and have no idea how this game should be promoted. The more interaction that people have, the more who become interested in owners, which we severely need in this game. Have you ever read any interviews with owners? Do you know how many have described getting involved because they went to the track with another owner and loved the thrill of the paddock and the winners circle?
No way Euro, you are way off base on that one. Its a sporting event and properly behaved adults will not be "running around". I've been to the paddock at least 100 times in my life, mayeb more, and never ONCE have I seen a single person act improperly or spoken to by security. Never ONCE!!! I'd like to hear from people here as well. Has anyone ever seen misbehavior by a person in the paddock? Because I have never witnessed it and have always observed people just smiling, looking at the horses, and taking in all the sights. Do you honestly feel that these people pose a threat to anyone? You are trying to spin this way beyond reality and what it is. Owners have always brought guests to the paddock and its part of the pageantry and excitement of the game. You think when people tune in to big races that an empty paddock is a real turn on? Wow.

Well said Mike!
I am an owner (not at that level yet)...but anytime I've been in the paddock before a race, I'm thinking about so many other things besides "law enforcement".
Actually, the paddock is usually a prety quiet place. The horse knows he's about to run. Everything about it is to be calm. If it gets loud or crazy, the horse will just get agitated. Horses are very sensitive to stress.
Just imagine...coming out of a quiet stall, walking over, more and more yelling people, a few curcuits in the paddock, and then the stall for saddling...
Horses really DO see and hear everything that's going on around them.
It comes from being a "prey" species.
So, anything that can be done to keep them calm so they can run their best is important.
The last thing they need is an arrogant rent-a-cop yelling at people and being far more important than the situation at hand.
DTS