My friend, you put it very well. I'm in your camp. I go to the races for the social aspect, and if I make some $$, great. Like many of us, it's about the atmosphere of the big day, or the seasonal events. Saratoga isn't as much about the racing as it is a step back in time, and spending time in the backyard with friends - new and old.
I remember our first tent infield party at OAK, and I don't think I had time to bet much more than the derby because it was just so much fun people watching and catching up on bad jokes (some yours!). Outside of BC and Derby Day, I take $200 (golf costs more these days I'm told) on Saturday and play a late P5 or two. And I find it more successful playing 2 late P5 or 4s than one entire card. I play Create a Card more than anything these days.
As for the 5 trainers or so that rule the G1s, no surprise to me - generally they have all the big $$ owners who spend at the sales, so why shouldn't they win? Yes,, it was a grand day at the Preakness with Funny Cide and getting to know Jack K, but not many $15K purchases winning - and that makes for a great story.
See you at OAK this winter. Good luck at BC...Oh, and one other thing. What time is the Cubs game this week? Oh, that's right...well you can commiserate with Roger..be well.