An example of how "Special Deals" can lead to conflict of interest and self dealing concerns from Fairmount Park today.

The win pool total for the 10 races was as follows:

17k, 28k, 25k, 25k, 20k, 28k, 18k, 22k, 17k, 52k

In the finale, there was 35k on the 3 horse (more than in any other win pool total on the day) who was 1-5 (.20-1 to be exact). The 3 was passed in the lane by the 7 horse (7-2). There was bumping but no one would ever say it affected the outcome. At least no one I am aware of thought it affected the outcome. 3 was not going to win and ended up 2nd a half a length behind (no placing was cost).

Inquiry. It happened Very Quickly. DQ. 1-5 placed on top. Interesting the trainer of the DQ-ed horse was Scott Becker who trained for William Stirtz, the former owner of Fairmount Park. He used to train for the guy that had the "House Horses" at FP. But today, his charge that he co-owned and trained was near immediately DQ-ed for the new "House Horse," the one with CAW money on it. In fact, Becker's co-owner was in the Win Circle ready for a win photo when the DQ happened so fast that the camera caught him exiting as the 3 was ushered in for the win picture.

Winner paid: $2.40 for $2 win
Exacta paid: $2.90 for $1
Trifecta paid: $6.20 for $1

Those are according to the chart. On track they likely paid less due to the Illinois surcharge to on track patrons. These special deals are all legit, just trust us, after all horse racing never has any reason to be suspicious.

A group of guys who follow Fairmount beyond close told me this is the third time this summer the heavy, heavy CAW favorite was shown the winner's circle in a similar situation.

The game is deteriorating on so many fronts oh so fast.

Foal Crops (Field Size)

CAW's

Saratoga's handle was down 8 plus million today from last year as Sovereignty earns a 115 Beyer on the track. The $1 pick 6, at Sar as many on here probably know, paid $145.00. I would love to know where that ranks by comparison to all time Travers Day Pick 6's (knowing that the minimum denomination has changed through time). 9 favorites and 3 2nd choices won 12 of the 14 races.

It doesn't look promising to me.