Sunday, May 31, 2009

3YO's - Not Getting Any Clearer; and Whipping Rules

The Hoosier Cup raced this Saturday and was won by Mr. Wiggles. The time was a slow 152.1 off a very fast half. Barber Pole was buried in a bad spot for most the of the mile, but did shake loose wide, late. He could not make up much ground, however, and I was not overly impressed.

The NJSS final for 3YO's was raced last night and Dial or No Dial got the job done, as chalk. He had a good trip and was also not overly impressive to me.

We have not seen Well Said yet, but right now I think it is pretty apparent that we were spoiled last year with the glut of talent.

Stormaway won the Molson Pace on Friday in a pari-mutuel shocker. It was a pretty exciting race. The news from the races aftermath shows the state of the game - whipping and sturrup fines for a few in the race. The ORC is about to change whipping rules, and it appears they are doing the right thing in advance of that - calling everything to the letter of the law. This is the only way we can see a smooth transition. I see (if I am reading it correctly) that if a driver does something illegal to win a race, that horse may be placed back. Can you imagine the first time a driver does that and then has to feel the wrath of the owner and trainer afterwards? It will not be pretty. I hope the ORC keeps this up in advance of the rule, as it is a fair thing to do.

The Ellitlopp goes in about twenty minutes, so I will be tuning in for that. It is always fantastic to watch.

1 comment:

ITP said...

"I see (if I am reading it correctly) that if a driver does something illegal to win a race, that horse may be placed back. Can you imagine the first time a driver does that and then has to feel the wrath of the owner and trainer afterwards?"

What about the bettors?

The first time I am taken down because of a whipping infraction, will be the last time I make a bet on a harness race.

The stewards are incompetent as it is....can you imagine the inconsistencies that will take place if it is left to their discretion to take a horse down or not.

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