Eight Belles to the Derby?

[cmorioles]

It isn't a big issue, but I've always thought fillys should have to have graded earnings against males to have them count.

[Kasept]

Originally Posted by cmorioles

It isn't a big issue, but I've always thought fillys should have to have graded earnings against males to have them count.

CJ,

That's a great point... I've never heard or seen that brought up.

[cmorioles]

Originally Posted by Kasept

CJ,

That's a great point... I've never heard or seen that brought up.

Thanks...just seems they get a free pass by racing in "restricted" races.

[letswastemoney]

it's true they get a free pass. but we would be deprived the opportunity to see something special if they didn't let this happen. as long as it's only 1 or 2 that get to try it, i don't think it's a big deal either.

[zippyneedsawin]

Originally Posted by cmorioles

It isn't a big issue, but I've always thought fillys should have to have graded earnings against males to have them count.

I was thinking the same thing. It's not like the colts even have a chance at those earnings.

[Danzig]

Originally Posted by cmorioles

It isn't a big issue, but I've always thought fillys should have to have graded earnings against males to have them count.

interesting point. but they also use two year old earnings, which are restricted races. i don't see a change in the near future.

[Samarta]

I am no fan of the connections of EB, but after watching all the preps since the beginning of the year, I think they may be sitting on the best 3 year old in the country. Now I'm a little hesitant in saying for 2 reasons, the first is the fact that she doesn't get out of the gate well. That's a disaster waiting to happen in the Derby. Race could be over two jumps in. The second is I didn't like the last two rides she had with Dominguez. The Honeybee, I just thought he wrapped up on her way too early (I know, nice problem to have) and in the Fantasy, he basically did the same thing and Alina had something left and he had to get after her and then for whatever reason she lugged in real bad at the finish. Steve I think your assessment of RP is right on and he is the one making the call, just as he made the call about Dominguez and not Thompson. I think if Jones had is way,Thompson would still be on this mount. But after all that is said, she is the best 3 year old I've seen this year. (taking Big Brown out of the mix now because of the 3 races)

[cmorioles]

Originally Posted by Danzig

interesting point. but they also use two year old earnings, which are restricted races. i don't see a change in the near future.

Yes, but all the horses eligible for the Derby could run in those 2yo races. They all can't run in filly races.

[cowgirlintexas]

The percentage of fillys that ever get to the level to even be considered for the Derby is so low that I don't think there needs to be a amount won against the males to have be eligible. I think it takes a very special filly to beat the boys in any race let alone the Kentucky Derby. Too bad RTR was'nt running this year, we could of had our first possible Triple crown winning filly.

[Hickory Hill Hoff]

This year's three year old filly crop is just as good as the boys.....with that said; please run her in the Oaks! She's better suited and most of all, possibly better financially for me.

[smuthg]

I found this interesting...

"Bob Holthus, who's preparing Pure Clan for the Kentucky Oaks, said that, of the 3-year-olds in training, the sheets gave Big Brown the best number (-1) for his Florida Derby victory, and Eight Belles the second best number (+3) for her Fantasy victory."

[cmorioles]

Originally Posted by Hickory Hill Hoff

This year's three year old filly crop is just as good as the boys.....with that said; please run her in the Oaks! She's better suited and most of all, possibly better financially for me.

I don't see how anyone could think they are better than the colts. It isn't like any of the fillies are lighting the world on fire either.

[cakes44]

Originally Posted by cmorioles

I don't see how anyone could think they are better than the colts. It isn't like any of the fillies are lighting the world on fire either.

I'm not sure what you're watching. When I see Ariege run, I instantly think of Lady's Secret.

[Hickory Hill Hoff]

Originally Posted by cmorioles

I don't see how anyone could think they are better than the colts. It isn't like any of the fillies are lighting the world on fire either.

Never said "better", said "just as good". Not much difference in my opinion, NEITHER are world beaters.