"Charismatic" on ESPN

[OldDog]

I can’t say whether Antley’s ride cost Charismatic the Triple Crown, but I do like the case that CalzoneLord and others make in defense of it. I remember the disappointment of seeing him falter down the stretch, the gut wrenching feeling when Chris pulled him up, and later the relief of hearing that his injuries weren’t life threatening.

It’s unfortunate that the “story” is about Antley’s drug dependence, although sadly it is and will always be a dominant story line in his career. But man, what a jockey. When he was “right,” he was so damn good. What a sweet time it is when horse, jockey, trainer and owner come together in a flash of perfection, and sweeter still when the horse and rider are enjoying moments of redemption. If only it could have lasted. Barbara Livingston’s photos are a reminder of just how great the good times were.

Finally, I was disappointed that the film didn’t present more about the story of the horse for which it was named.