Yikes - ATR Live

[ELA]

Originally Posted by Cardus

What positives can come from this? What negatives?

I think that in situations like this, they often tend to take on a life of their own. On one hand, this can potentially be a catalyst for change, for progress, etc. It might be now and could be the start of something. Or it could be a wake up call, and start some sort of slow, perhaps "covert" process. Of course, this could only happen if, and only if, all of this is coupled with proof. Perhaps obtaining the proof becomes a journey, not just a destination.

On the other hand, I don't know what can happen, but I think it could be bad. It wouldn't be the first time. There is so much negativity in and around this business, and the media, the public, and our own industry does what it can to put much of that in the forefront. Unless someone, or something that happens, is going to advocate for the industry -- and not against a former friend, client, etc. -- then perhaps this can also spiral out of control. There could be a great deal of finger pointing, allegations, and more of the like. What could come from that? More vets coming forward? More accusations? Will that be hollow? Or will it have substance? If it's coupled with proof, great.

But what happened to Mario Sclafani and Braulio Baeza started with accusations. Sure, there was more to it, but it started from -- and I mean no offense to anyone here who knows the person, and I ask that nobody use his name -- a person who comments were made to, who lost some bets, etc. Sure, we all know there were political aspects to this, but there were two people at the end of all those negative reports, accusations, etc. One was a hard working guy, liked by his peers, people in the industry, and people on the racetrack. He wasn't a public figure. Mario Sclafani was butchered. The other -- Braulio Baeza, a Hall of Fame member, who everyone liked and respected. His reputation was damaged beyond repair.

But what are we really talking about here? Public perception is already low. It could get lower as a result of something like this. This could potentially cast a very long, wide and bad net. Of course I hope it does not, and only hope that if anything, good comes from this. I guess we'll soon see.

Eric

[Danzig]

Originally Posted by Cardus

Why is public perception of racing low? I don't think it's because there is a widespread, general population perception that racing is conducted by "cheats," to use Allday's word about one trainer. It's people like us who are much more sensitive to issues like this that are troubled.

i don't think a lot of people think it's populated by cheats. just that there are cheaters out there, and hopefully they'll start cracking down.
savvy bettors use all info, whether the perception is that a trainer is a cheat or not, they'll use their money accordingly.