Richiebee,

I think the results from Gulfstream show there is no such thing as a “stanadard” sloppy track. Having included Super Frolic and Suave in my Exactas, I was initially optimistic when I saw the sloppy designation since both of these horses had run well on off tracks. Not so on the new Gulfstream slop- they didn’t handle it at all.
As far as Barbaro, though his win was visually impressive, the time was slow. Their used to be a mistaken belief that turfers liked the mud when just the opposite is true, so I’m not too concerned with his slow time. I think he put away the field on class alone despite disliking the footing. I’m eagerly awaiting his fast dirt debut.
I remember Michael Matz from his show jumping days. Unlike most equestrians, he was not born with a silver spoon in his mouth but was a great rider and brought home an Olympic medal. He also risked his life to save a couple of kids in a plane crash.
Of course, this has nothing to do with the ability of the horse, but I am rooting for him and Barbaro. Sentiment aside, I’ll wait and see how he does in his next race before touting him as a Derby contender.

Bob