The idea that horsemen/trainers are, as per Michael's quote, "NOT BREEDING AND TRAINING THEIR HORSES TOWARDS THOSE RACES AS MUCH AS THEY USED TO," does not strike me as 100% accurate.

Although I might not know as much about breeding, etc. as some who post here, I can't recall coming across too many articles about horsemen/trainers who want to pay a fortune for sprinters. Most of what I read involves a quest for a horse who can win The Big Ones (Derby and Other Spring 3yo Classics and BC Races -- Only One Of Which Are A Sprint). This is still The Dream.

I think I know what Michael is driving at since I would agree that the last few decades have seen an increase in sprint-types vs. stamina-types -- but I would argue that horsemen and trainers are still very conscious of getting some stamina for their money. Certainly U.S. breeders have made different decisions than the Euros... But if you want to talk about common sense, ask the guys who spend money at the yearling sales if they want a Grade I sprinter or a Derby horse and see what they say.... I've only been to one sale (at Ocala) and I think I have a "common sense" answer to this question. So the idea that horsemen/trainers are not focused on this type of horse is at least debatable.

Also, since we're talking about common sense, if you're going to argue that Jerry is wrong about this -- since horses are NOT getting faster they are either

1) the same speed as they were 20/40 years ago

or

2) slower than they were 20/40 years ago.

I may argue that horses are not THAT much faster than they were 20/40 years ago (a matter of DEGREE), but I can't argue points (1) or (2) with any conviction. Judging by the performance records in most sports I follow (incl. that interesting track and field argument from awhile ago on this board), most athletes seem to be getting a little better over time. How they are getting better is a separate argument! But the idea that horse racing is in a separate universe, and horses are either staying the same speed or slowing down doesn't make sense.

I would love to see someone make the opposite argument -- based on either (1) or (2) above...

HP