Which horse winning the Derby is best for racing overall?
I'm of the opinion that "best for racing as a whole" means a horse that sticks around at least through its 4yo year.
That said - the easiest choice for me would be BROOKLYN STRONG, since he's a gelding. He'll run as long as he's able to, one would think.
Other possibilities:
MANDALOUN - Prince Khaled never needed to "take money off the table" so his stars often kept running. Not sure how Juddmonte will carry on after his death.
ESSENTIAL QUALITY - Godolphin like Juddmonte in the "no rush to the shed" mold, but the negatives currently clouding Sheikh Mohammed may outweigh the positives of a lengthy racing career for the horse.
SOUP AND SANDWICH - I'd hazard a guess that Mrs. Weber at this point would like to enjoy a really good runner for a while, rather than retire him quickly.
Do you have other candidates you think might "stick around" after a Derby win and 3YO campaign?
Or do you have some different criteria for "best for racing" and have other horses in mind that fit them?
Also feel welcome to share those who you think would not be best for racing. I'll start that list by saying I'd prefer not to see KEEPMEINMIND in the Winner's Circle tomorrow, although I do like David Cohen.
Good luck to everyone tomorrow!!!
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Tom in NW Arkansas
Past performances are no guarantee of future results. - Why isn't this disclaimer printed in the Daily Racing Form?
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