When was the last year this happened?

[brianwspencer]

Originally Posted by Pedigree Ann

Most good horses (should) run in lesser prep races to get ready for the bigger races ahead. Like running in the San Felipe before you run in the Santa Anita Derby. Just because a couple of good horses use it for prepping in one particular year doesn't make the race a major event. Is it really on a par with the Beverley D. or the Diana?

Well, by that logic, aren't the horses in the Arkansas Derby just prepping for a bigger race as well? In that case, its Grade II billing is just where it should be. Is it really on par with the Kentucky Derby?