This Crop

[justindew]

Do any of you think it is fair to start judging this crop of three-year-olds? It seems like three horses have clearly established themselves as the best of the group to this point, but how do they stack up against the best from previous years? And what about every horse not named Street Sense, Hard Spun, or Curlin?

My feeling is that the group as a whole is sub-par, and that could have something to do with why we have seen the same three horses complete the trifecta in the Derby and the Preakness. Furthermore, the relative mediocrity of the entire group could explain why so many historical trends were defied this year. Curlin has been able to do what he has done in such a short period of time. Street Sense was able to win the Derby with two preps, and as the BC Juvenile winner. Hard Spun has run two huge races after running fast fractions early.

Coming up, we have the Jim Dandy, the Haskell, and the Travers. At this point, it looks like Street Sense, Curlin, and Hard Spun are expected to be the main threats to win those races. Maybe Chelokee can add his name to the list, or maybe not.

Finally, just how good are the top three? Don't jump down my throat for saying this, but really good horses don't usually relinquish the lead after they get it. Steve has made good points about the fast internal fractions that Street Sense ran, but I still feel like he gave up, and it was very disappointing to me. Curlin and Hard Spun both ran great races, and I hope we get to see all three face each other again.

[ArlJim78]

I think this crop is slowly developing and taking shape.
It sure has looked like a sub-par group early on but I'm starting to get the sense that there might be a decidedly different opinion by year end, or even now.

I will say that they have so far put on a good show and its been a good year for fans.

I do not think Street Sense gave up. If he were run down by a horse that I had a strong feeling was inferior it would be one thing. Curlin has thrown down the gauntlet and is making a claim for the top spot in the group. It may be that he is simply a better horse than Street Sense.

[brockguy]

I think it'll end up being a good group of colts by the years end.. however, saying that, If I was the owner of Invasor, I wouldnt be quaking in my boots..

[justindew]

I don't think the owner of Invasor shakes in his boots for anything.

[Samarta]

Do you think Hard Spun will stay in the classic division?

Every year a horse comes along in the second season....is it Chelokee this year? Who knows....

I think the only one that has potential to really make some noise is Curlin....how much better can he get? Street Sense and Hard Spun will some races, but Curlin is the one that could ultimately challenge in BC this year imo...

[justindew]

Part of me thinks that if Street Sense truly did quit yesterday, and if Nafzger can prevent that from happening again, Street Sense will prove to be the best of the three.

Are you thinking Hard Spun will go to the turf?

[Bobby Fischer]

This is a slow bunch...
A mediocre group...
NOT!


Curlin is the living definition of tactical-speed. His stride is grace in motion and he has gotten noticeably physically stronger since his brilliant 7 furlong maiden win earlier this year.
from here on out - continue the program, must gradually improve, can't let the fast rise to the top break his long term momentum. work on establishing position early, work on the turns.


Street Sense has the rare combination of talent and late running style. Always responds and makes his run. His stamina and style separate him from the Jinxed Juveniles.
from here on out - needs to be placed in the right races (pace up front, is lone closer), for winning effort must make last run against top competition, has to win races deep in the lane, not at the top


Hard Spun is a big strong classic distance runner with a true high-cruising speed style. Scary that he has potential to improve and actually made a stalk and pounce move in the Preakness. (albeit very premature).
from here on out - decide a course of action. know your horse. Either this is a real talent with stamina and speed, that simply needs a jockey that can control the animal and time a race properly when he doesn't break on top, or if the horse is uncontrollable, carefully spot him down in class, throw on those blinkers and overpower cheaper horses at 8.5 furlongs.