How does racing today compare to the 70s or 80s?

[Port Conway Lane]

That's a broad question depending on exactly what you mean.
When you say droppers win more you are referring to trainers. It would be exhaustive to research those stats. I recall there was talk of collusion among the big three trainers in Maryland in the late 70's in which they wouldn't claim each other's horses. I've always understood racing is healthy when there are abundant claims.

I look at the cards today and long for the type of racing I remember when I started.

I guess that depends on where you played. Today you can choose any track or competitive races with large fields that you wish. In the mid 80's I would play Maryland on the weekends and Charles Town Friday and Saturday night. I couldn't get enough with only 40 races to choose from in between the work week. I do kind of miss that...It doesn't make sense to me but I feel I was more selective back then.

I'd say the quality of racing is no better or worse. People have a way of remembering the good times and forgetting the bad. When you're in the present, the bad times aren't as easily forgotten.