Barbaro (the Champ)

[TitanSooner]

Originally Posted by Pillow Pants

The difference in Lava Man and the Midwest and East Coast contingent is at least the majority of the top horses this side of the country have traveled outside of their area and faced different competition.

Not giving Lava Man a prep at Belmont or Keeneland is going to backfire. Running him in the Hirsch is avoiding all challengers that matter. The horse might not be a fluke, but his connections sure are acting like he is.

I want the horse to compete with the best. What's left in California?

Excellent response.. however, shipping outside of a horse's "area" in the east coast is much easier than shipping from California. The closest "Major" track to us is.. Kentucky. We're an island out here as far as that is concerned. The Hirsch wouldn't be my choice for a prep either, but I'm not a trainer and don't get paid to make those decisions.. Will it backfire? Maybe.. I hope not as I want to see him run his best race against that monster so there are no excuses for anyone. Can't wait to see that race.. just hope everyone stays healthy for it.