http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-raci...beats-zenyatta
When one scrolls down and listens to the comments, the actual facts--what Blame has done this year in the 16 minute video press conference following his Classic win with trainer, Al Stall; owner, Seth Hancock/Claiborne Farm; and Garrett Gomez, Blame's jockey, there is no question which horse will be named HORSE OF THE YEAR.
Blame deserves this award. It is not based on lifetime achievement and those that make up the body of votes know this. The award is not about popularity, it is not about performance in one race.
There's no doubt, the Classic's photo finish is, indeed, the sport's, "moment of the year", still this doesn't warrant Zenyatta being named HOTY.
Blame's performance on the track this year, combined with Seth Hancock's family owning Claiborne and breeding horses for 100 years, his running of this farm for thirty eight years and Blame being a homebred will carry more weight in the voting.
Most likely the Moss's choice for an easier path towards one ultimate goal will cause them to be shut out once again.
Zenyatta's been a boon to the sport, a certain fact that cannot be questioned, but Blame has achieved on the track what the award is designated to honor and recognize on a yearly basis.
Hopefully, when Zenyatta is honored and voted into the thoroughbred racing's, Hall of Fame, which may well not be too far off--the Moss's will be thrilled and more gracious than they were at last year's Eclipse awards.
(Maybe Fence or someone else can embed the video--)
