Lance wrote:

"Re. the upcoming Derby: I know that Kentucky has -- or at least had -- a reputation for liberal medication policies, but I'm wondering if perhaps they (and other tracks) haven't figured something out in regards to surveillance on the biggest race days. Is there a reason Pletcher and Frankel are 0-fer in the Derby and a combined 6 for 90 in the Breeders Cup, despite saddling an inordinate number of short-priced steeds? Are there more barn-security/surveillance measures in place for the Derby than there are for your average Saturday race card?"


Lance, the answer is no, but the conspiracy idiots wll tell you differently. there was something that the BC was not going to test for shakes or something and people got upset.Shakes alone are probably one of the more meaningless paranoias around the game, there's much better illegal stuff. Don't know all that much about Frankel but he seems to race them when they are ready and spaces horse real well. Does he use drugs, no one knows.

In the case of Pletcher,it has to be a illegal drug conspiracy involving many staff, assistants and vets.His stable is spread across the country and he does NOT micro manage.You would think that a disgruntled employee would blow the whistle,no? I wonder if he wins at app 25% because of the following:

He learned from one of the most accomplished trainers in history D. Wayne.

His owners spend millions each year to replenish stock and he arguably has the most diversified and talented barn, year after year.

Angel sits on most in the am(advising) and Johnny V and Garret Gomez ride in the afternoon.

He gets horse like Lawyer Ron sent to him.


As far as rebreaking, it's in your mind from getting beat by his horses.Blood dope and designer super pain drugs are out there and if he using them he must be a poor horseman to only win at 25%. Give that barn to Tricky, he'll win at 50%.

Mike