Now I Have Zero Respect Left for Shirreffs

[RolloTomasi]

I heard his defenders talking about how he's brought her along slowly and because she's only run 9f once, taking her to a 10f race against the best in the world wasn't practical. Then we watched two 3yo's who had never been past a mile and were trying a new surface for the first time and shipping across the ocean to do it run 1-2.

Not the same scenario. Raven's Pass and Henrythenavigator, both of whom are likely never to run again (one confirmed), were essentially throwing up a Hail Mary to add luster to their stallion credentials. It worked. But note both were 20-1 to do it.

Zenyatta, who would have been 2nd choice, is likely to remain in training. She has all of next year to duck males. Save your bitching for then.

Besides, what were the odds Shirreffs was on a soapbox outside his Hollywood Park barn on a dark day actively "campaigning" for Zenyatta as HOY? Isn't it more likely a bunch of racing journalists were baiting him all morning with questions about it? What was he supposed to say, "No, she doesn't deserve to be considered (note he didn't necessarily say she deserved it anyways) at all."?

Next thing you know, your buddy John Sadler would be training the horse.