The “pic” ran first in the Miami Herald. I suppose that’s why the paper contacted Florida State Racing Steward Walter Blum to obtain his opinion. Walter Blum was misnamed he should have been named “Walter Dumb”. First the quote:

Walter Blum, a former jockey who rode in the Derby and the state steward for South Florida's two thoroughbred tracks, said the photo warrants further review.

''Until they say what it is, I'd hate to say what it could be,'' said Blum, who was shown the photo by The Herald on Friday. ``But it is suspicious looking. It looks highly unusual. I've been wondering ever since I saw it . . . what it could be. I don't know what else it could be.'' Unquote: Really Walter? You don’t know what else it could possibly be?

Walter Dumb should not be serving in a review capacity. He lacks good cognitive skills. I was a victim of his confusion. In 1989 I made the biggest bet I had made to that point in my life. It was a straight perfecta Glitterman over Big Stanley. It was a seven furlong race and Calder was playing somewhat to front runners that day. Glitterman was the lone speed and was four years old to Stanley’s three is my recollection. Glitterman was a pure Sprinter and Stanley probably akin to Supah Blitz, a horse that could go a distance in lesser company. Glitterman took the lead and in the stretch gave Stanley the rail. The hole was there but Stanley couldn’t or wouldn’t go through. There was no contact and no checking on Stanley’s part. He just wouldn’t go through against the rail. Walter Dumb disqualified Glitterman to second and disbelieving fans broke up track property near the paddock shelter. Walter said and I quote: “Glitterman was disqualified for intimidating the hell out of Big Stanley.” I’ve never heard anything remotely similar used to disqualify a horse before or since.

CtC



Post Edited (05-10-03 23:25)