How Much Is Too Much?
To see a runner finish up strong in their last prep has always been a sign I have looked for. I think it shows a colt’s ability to get a little better each and every time out. That is, until now…..
I was reading a little stat, and I found it quite interesting. Since 1991, only 2 out of 15 runners have won by five or more lengths and then gone on to win the Kentucky Derby. Could the easy win take gas out of the tank? You decide:
2009 – Friesan Fire – 7 1/4 – La Derby
2008 – Big Brown – 5 – Fla Derby (*Derby winner)
2007 – Curlin – 10 1/2 – Ark Derby
2006 – Bellamy Road – 17 1/2 – The Wood
2006 – Sinister Minister – 12 3/4 – Bluegrass
2006 – Sweetnorthernsaint – 9 1/4 Ill Derby
2005 – Bandini – 6 – Bluegrass
2005 – Greely’s Galaxy – 9 1/2 – Ill Derby
2005 – Afleet Alex – 8 – Ark Derby
2002 – War Emblem – 6 1/4 – Ill Derby (*Derby winner)
2001 – Point Given – 5 1/2 – Santa Anita Derby
2001 – Millenium Wind – 5 1/4 – Bluegrass
1996 – Skip Away – 6 – Bluegrass
1995 – Talkin Man – 7 3/4 – Wood
1991 – Hansel – 9 – Lexington
So, is it better to see the big win? Or, is this just more Derby fever talking? I like to read about trends and history. If you go back and take a look, for the most part you will see a trend. I now have filed this one with the other 50 that I have in my noggin….