You rushed Any Given Saturday on short rest into the Wood.The TBD was a very demanding race on AGS.Yes, you got the graded earnings needed so your owners can party in Louisville and be seen in the paddock Derby Day, but at what cost?
I can't help but think how well AGS would have fit into the Bluegrass.He could have had the planned 4 weeks rest. He could have been very relaxed on/near the lead in a race void of much speed. You probably get the graded earnings necessary to start in the Derby if you finish 4th or 5th.The recovery from a Polytrack race is probably easier on the horse than a dirt race @ AQU.
AGS was a tired horse going into Wood. He ran like a tired horse. This can't be a good way to approach the Derby.
This is a classic case of Derby fever. Owner and trainer don't do what's best for the horse. They just want that their ticket stamped to Louisville.
I applaud the connections of Sightseeing for doing what's best for the horse.I also applaud Barclay Tagg for skipping the BC and doing what was best for Nobiz Like Showbiz.Maybe I'm just too old school??