Cocoa Beach Had To Come Down

[Gander]

Originally Posted by CSC

I remember that one and it bothered me because of the inconsistency of the stewards. I can't remember the exact call prior to this race but needless to say I was on the wrong end of both calls and at the time remembering why they didn't remain consistent. As a horseplayer that's all you want, a reasonable explanation and more importantly consistent decision making.

I actually needed the heavily favored Country Star to stay up that day for a pick 3, but I was with a friend who badly needed that 2nd place horse. We were by the winner''s circle and were able to watch the jockeys state their cases. I thought for sure she was coming down.

Usually I am on the wrong end of inquiry's/DQs. Most notably and painfully in the Arlington Million the "first time" Powerscourt won, but was controversially taken down. Cost me a ton, and then I had to endure a dinner with friends, who have no clue how much I bet or had riding on that result.

[CSC]

Which begs the question when the 1st DQ (I'm assuming there hasn't been one yet)comes this meet and it will come, I'm wondering just what type of call it will be. I'm all for consistency, it's when the selective dq that comes out of left field happens that is when it really bothers me.

I'm okay with Cocoa Beach staying up given there has been no precedent set this meet, trust me I lost a few with the non call but given the context of the rules it would have been a tough call to make. Now if another horse gets into the same position and fouls a horse in an identical way later in the meet and is taken down then I think the Stewards should be made to explain themselves. You just can't selectively decide to push the DQ button whenever you please, whether it's a high profile race or a 20K claimer. Hope it doesn't happen but I have little faith given their history.