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Originally Posted by the_fat_man
I agree that judging Papa Clem based on an off track race where he cut the pace is probably not the way to go. And, there are just so many perfect trips in a given year for Friesen Fire. So, anyone wanting him in the Derby will be in for a very rude awakening.
But while I want to believe that Old Fashioned is distanced challenged, as this is constantly being put out there, I'm not sure that I saw that today. What I did see is a jock STYLING while seriously NAPPING on a horse with an easy lead, that got passed and continued on very gamely on the inside to the wire. In fact, OF appeared to be making some of the ground back. Distance challenged horses typically give it up when they're passed. A more attentive ride by the jock is all it would've taken today.
Not sure that I can reconcile General Quarters' performance today with his getting a 'lousy' trip last out. He didn't get the best of trips but it certainly wasn't a very bad one. He ran much better today -- poly or otherwise.
As for POTN, he never struck me as anything more than a workmanlike performer. He tries hard and beats what they put him in against. I understand that he's presently the POLY HATERS whipping boy but all the horse can do it run where they put him. If he fails on the dirt, SO ****IN WHAT!!!! He goes back to the POLY and TURF and carves out a decent career.
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nothing wrong with that whatsoever. he'll be the new lava man.
as for hating poly, i think everyone is framing their thoughts on him regarding ky, not anything else. i don't think anyone would pick against him in a race on his favored surface.