Mall wrote:

> I know we've discussed this before, but BR rated in his 1st
> race, enough evidence in my mind to prove that he is capable of
> rating. btw, I saw this morning that Donna Brothers is of the
> same view.
>

Lets discuss this some more. I've probably bet upon more first timers than most skilled handicappers would consider wise. Many times those bets were upon what was undoubtedly the quickest horse in the race and first time out of the gate they were caught flat footed. If they laid over their competition, which many times they did, some were able to overcome their jittery first break and win. One did so while I disgustedly went to the restroom certain I'd lost. That one never "rated" again.

Theres no telling what a first race two year old is gonna do. Bellamania ran his best fractions ever that race. Its accurate to say he won from behind. Rating is a whole nuther issue. Bellamania will be behind in this race from outside. How far outside is to be decided. When he's behind on the first turn will he be "rating" or outfooted?

Theres only one question to my mind. Is he sufficiently freaky to run hard, run long and run late with quality horses the Kentucky Derby itself has never seen before.