Derby Fever: Where 'stupid' is contagious

[blackthroatedwind]

Originally Posted by Ogygian

I was only comparing possible odds, in 05 Giacomos morning line was 50-1, there were 4 others listed at 50-1 morning line. He was for all intensive purposes listed as one of the 5 longest shots to win the race.So was he given a snowball's chance, no he wasn't. If Atomic Rain makes the race, he finish a well beaten 18th. What aggravates me more is cross entering in the Derby and Oaks and possibly taking up a spot. Its not like if AR goes he will be taking a "better" horses spot.

That makes sense. I guess the better argument, or more relevent argument, is whether or not the field size should be limited to 14.

[justindew]

Originally Posted by blackthroatedwind

That makes sense. I guess the better argument, or more relevent argument, is whether or not the field size should be limited to 14.

And the answer to that would be no.

Glad we settled this.

[blackthroatedwind]

Originally Posted by justindew

And the answer to that would be no.

Glad we settled this.

It's a complicated discussion, but it certainly seems especially relevent this year, in light of Churchill claiming their racetrack is certified as " safe " by the NTRA. While I am sure their intentions are noble, and they have done whatever is possible to ensure a safe surface, the question of whether or not a race is " safe " with 20 horses thundering around that oval seems applicable this year.

It's a long debate, and I am sure there are arguments for both sides, but IMO a stronger argument can be made for reducing the field size. All these " these horses ( it's really people in this case ) have earned a right to run " arguments don't hold water for me. I realize they run 20 plus horse fields overseas....but not on racetracks like Churchill Down's dirt course.

[Travis Stone]

Originally Posted by blackthroatedwind

That makes sense. I guess the better argument, or more relevent argument, is whether or not the field size should be limited to 14.

It would be tough business-wise to make a move like that...

In my opinion, one of the best Derby's ever was '97 with Silver Charm, when they only had to use one gate.