Re: One horse to beat? (537 Views)
Posted by:
Photofnish (IP Logged)
Date: April 16, 2004 06:29PM
"I've watched the race many times now but the horse from that bunch at least that sticks out at me isn't Eddy. Its Tapit."
Chuckles: Tapit impressed me too, but he's really up against it in regards to the Derby. He's got two huge statistical obstacles to overcome: only four lifetime races and only two starts at age three. Soon enough, some wise guy will chime in, "Yeah, but trends are meant to be broken. I bet you didn't bet a NY-bred gelding, either." (I did, but that's another story.) The stats aren't just numbers; they're a way to quantify a horse's experience and foundation. Tapit is lacking both. Many a good horse has tried to win the Derby with only four lifetime starts -- Indian Charlie, Medaglia, Congaree, etc. Likewise, many have tried with only two starts at age three -- Best Pal, Lemon Drop Kid, Point Given. I've said it before and I'll say it again: fit horses, not fresh horses, win the Derby. If Tapit can overcome his inexperience and lack of racing foundation, he's truly an exceptional animal. On May 1st, I'll be betting with history and playing against him with both fists (as far as the win slot is concerned).
Just my take. Good luck.