It's Belmont Week . . . thoughts, weather, etc here

[cal828]

Originally Posted by DonGuido

Last time we'll have a $200 wallet until Breeders Cup, double points awarded as well. No Triple Crown to pull for but what are your thoughts the favorite and longshots that may have a change? Any greys/grays we know Ruffian will be looking at? And I saw Entries for Saratoga on DRF??? Isn't it an early start for The Spa?

I could be wrong of course. Hard to handicap the handicappers, but I think I would be surprised if the lady in question went with any gray other than the one she has already enjoyed success with and why not? He has already demonstrated that he can get the distance. Within a sixteenth of a mile of the distance anyway. Have to say, I'm a bit disappointed that the Belmont Stakes this year is not the traditional mile and a half. Just seems to be a much more unique race at the longer distance, but not many, if any, venues like Belmont Park.

[JolyB]

Originally Posted by cal828

I could be wrong of course. Hard to handicap the handicappers, but I think I would be surprised if the lady in question went with any gray other than the one she has already enjoyed success with and why not? He has already demonstrated that he can get the distance. Within a sixteenth of a mile of the distance anyway. Have to say, I'm a bit disappointed that the Belmont Stakes this year is not the traditional mile and a half. Just seems to be a much more unique race at the longer distance, but not many, if any, venues like Belmont Park.

I suspect that the TV coverage of the Belmont Stakes will show us graphically why it is not possible to run a 1 1/2 mile race on the main track at Saratoga. If Randy Moss is part of the crew he will explain it. Like you, I'll miss the distance that creates the "test of a champion." But, all of the ambiance and charm of Saratoga ought to make up for it. I envy those who will be there, crowds and all.

[RUFFIAN]

Am Sad To See The Belmont Distance Changed
The Winner Will Not Have The Same Appreciation
As Past Winners At Mile + Half

I Guess My Gray Obsession Is No Deep Secret 🙀
So Of Course My Heart Will Seize The Gray

Also
As I Am An ‘into Mischief ‘ Lover
Resilience Is My Other “ Mane Attractiin “

My Fave Sires May Reveal A Bit About Me 🙀

Into Michief
Distorted Humor
Practical Joke

[JolyB]

I could almost hear Ruffian cheering during the very close finish of today's featured Gold Cup. After 2 miles on the turf, there were 3 greys at the wire. Very generous payout since Charley Appleby's Siskany was up the track.

[RUFFIAN]

JOLY

I DID NOT SEE THAT RACE
But you are very PURRRRRSPECTIVE
REGARDING MY GRAY HORSE 🐎 OBSESSIO

I’M NOT SURE WHAT THE BASIS FOR IT IS
I SUSPECT I HAD GRAY HORSE 🐎
IN A FORMER LIFETIME


In fact I even have GRAY ROAN Now
You can see me with her on my website

RUFFIAN333.com

IN MY OWN BOOK
YA WIN SOME ~ YA LOSE SOME

SOME OF THE HORSES REPRESENT MY GRAY FIXATION

BLACK TIE AFFAIR
HOLY BULL
LIT DE JUSTICE
IZVESTIA
SKIP AWAY

[Indian Hemp]

Originally Posted by JolyB

I suspect that the TV coverage of the Belmont Stakes will show us graphically why it is not possible to run a 1 1/2 mile race on the main track at Saratoga. If Randy Moss is part of the crew he will explain it. Like you, I'll miss the distance that creates the "test of a champion." But, all of the ambiance and charm of Saratoga ought to make up for it. I envy those who will be there, crowds and all.

They've been quick to point out it's not the first time the Belmont has been run at a shorter distance and had been run at Aqu for a few years not that long ago. However I agree that 12F was the test and would like to see what the Sar config would look like at 12 or even 11F.

Fortunately it will return to its proper place and remain there, unlike the Preakness, which could turn into an NIL opportunity for Belinda.