CD renames La Troienne (And now renames the Louisville La Troienne!)

[joeydb]

I agree with Steve's comments yesterday about this, and the discarding of our history in this sport. Not a good idea.

But even more, I doubt the wisdom of renaming a stakes on Derby Day. Which is more likely: a reverent reflection on Eight Belles and acknowledgement of her legacy or just an "Oh my God...I remember that...this sport is so cruel to horses" type of impulse from the casual race watcher on TV?

I don't think it was a smart thing to link it to Derby Day, regardless of whether it was a renaming in place of La Troienne or if it were a new stakes. It's like renaming the Daytona 500 the "Dale Earnhardt 500". It's not a good idea to remind everyone of the tragedies that are unavoidable in the sport.

BTW I liked Earnhardt -- rest in peace, but you guys see the point I'm trying to make.