BitPlayer wrote:

Frankly, I don't see the problem.
>
> The way the BC Classic unfolded from a pace perspective was not
> a surprise. Haskin published a piece on the Bloodhorse site
> BEFORE the Breeders Cup saying that, because Ghostzapper has an
> aversion to dirt in the face (he's no dummy) and was starting
> from the one hole, he would be sent. Frankel was quoted in the
> article. RIM and Azeri were both rated in their races
> immediately prior to the BC, so it was predictable that they
> would be rated in the Classic if GZ went.

Everyone is trying to win and if Ramsey took Frankel's advice it was in an effort to win. For Frankel the "good" advice was worth about $200,000 so he was protecting his interests. For Ramsey it amounted to about $640,000. I agree it was very unseemly and my reading of the Bloodhorse article indicated Frankel was choosing his words very carefully. The guy is no dummy, but he is willing to do whatever it takes to win that kind of money and thats the problem.

As far as the pace being foreseeable, I disagree. I don't think RIM rated last (he was running comfortably on the lead, to me theres a difference) and Azeri had one chance and I projected her front end. Additionally, I thought Funny Cide would be forwardly stalking. Add the track condition (wicked) and collusion to the mix and the pace fell apart. Rarely has a race fell so softly into a horses lap. All you Ghostzapper "sure thingers", tune in next year.

CtC



Post Edited (11-13-04 11:46)