Odysseus pre-Derby start at KEE or OP

[NTamm1215]

Originally Posted by blackthroatedwind

I agree they have to improve but I was impressed with how Odysseus was able to regather himself despite ultimately seeming to have been ridden in a manner against the way he may be most effective. I bet he is a better one run type from farther back in the pack, and not a grinder, and if he gets a fair pace ( not saying he needs a collapse scenerio ), and is able to drop back early, he may be much more effective.

He also probably got the ride he did because they felt Super Saver was the one to beat, and didn't want him to get an easy lead, which is all reasonable thinking, but you ultimately have dance with proverbial girl that got you there, and in the future hopefully he will be farther from the lead early.

A tactical change could certainly be helpful as he's made it clear he can finish when the timing/opportunity is right. After watching the TB Derby too many times I just keep coming to the conclusion that the race had fallen on it's head at the eighth pole and Schoolyard Dreams, Super Saver, and the huge longshot on the outside were in neutral. That being said, Odysseus' move was far from conventional.

My hope for Odysseus, from a wagering standpoint, is that he starts to make the move forward we know he has to make in the Wood Memorial but still loses and then be in position to assert himself on May 1. I don't consider him a horse with no or even poor chances right now by any means, just one with inconclusive credentials.

NT