3/14-15 (SA): Margarita (Gr. I); Felipe (Gr. II); Irish O'Brien; Pasadena

[NTamm1215]

I think they're both phenomenally overrated.

NT

[Pedigree Ann]

PoN was taken out of his game in this race so didn't look as good as previously. The lack of pace meant he moved too early and ended up in a drive for a half-mile instead of the usual 3/8 or 1/4 mile. Same thing happened to Chocolate Candy up north last out. That they were able to win their races despite this handicap demonstrates their superiority over their respective fields.

[NTamm1215]

Originally Posted by Pedigree Ann

PoN was taken out of his game in this race so didn't look as good as previously. The lack of pace meant he moved too early and ended up in a drive for a half-mile instead of the usual 3/8 or 1/4 mile. Same thing happened to Chocolate Candy up north last out. That they were able to win their races despite this handicap demonstrates their superiority over their respective fields.

You made two mistakes here. The first is that Pioneerof the Nile ever looked good. The second is the ridiculous notion that a horse who pulls his way to the lead during pedestrian fractions is somehow taken out of his game or is up against it pace-wise. That is not the case. He was able to contest a very slow pace and no matter what your running style is, when you're involved in a slow pace you should have something left in the stretch.

He is an average horse, nothing more IMO. I know I'd love him in a few Derbies though, I think they are the American, Virginia, or Hollywood.

NT

[Diver67]

He DID have something left in the stretch--but the slow pace ensured that so did everyone else (except New Bay). When the whole field is allowed to gallop along at a sluggish pace, it takes the advantage away from the horse with superior stamina.

Plus he tends to wait on horses.

[NTamm1215]

Originally Posted by Diver67

He DID have something left in the stretch--but the slow pace ensured that so did everyone else (except New Bay). When the whole field is allowed to gallop along at a sluggish pace, it takes the advantage away from the horse with superior stamina.

Plus he tends to wait on horses.

Except when he's able to lope along on the front end. I just hope all of his apologists keep making excuses for this overrated slowpoke.

NT

[King Glorious]

It's funny how they do that. The half can be in 1:14 and they'll say he was taken out of his running style because he was on the lead. Position in a race is not as important as how fast you are running.