This isn't going to die, quite yet

[Bobby Fischer]

Watch the replay from the gate into the first turn.

Gomez turned down the inside and the lead going into the first turn.

He could have rated a slow 50second half on the lead or he could have changed the dynamics of the race and set a 48 half.

Probably 4th best regardless.

Beyond the start and pace decision:
On light viewing Gomez appeared to do a pretty good job of rating Hard Spun. In a quick look, I didn't see obvious signs of the horse fighting the jockey. If that is the case overall it wasn't the worst ride in history. If however Hard Spun never settled into a pace and actually fought Gomez all the way around then yes overall terrible ride.