Today's History - Sept. 20th

[billrock]

On this date in 1940 Batavia Downs opened in upstate New York.

On this date in 1965 jockey Jorge Velasquez made his American racing debut, riding for owner Fred W. Hooper, at Atlantic City Racecourse. He won with his first mount, aboard Keypoint, in the sixth race at 8-1 odds.

On this date in 1976 two-year-old Seattle Slew made his racing debut, winning a six furlong maiden race by five lengths at Belmont Park. His zesty workouts prior to the race made Seattle Slew the 2-1 favorite and he was the public's choice in both his subsequent races that year. After only three starts (including the Champagne Stakes) in the space of 27 days, Seattle Slew was voted champion two-year-old colt for 1976.

[Kelso]

Originally Posted by billrock

After only three starts (including the Champagne Stakes) in the space of 27 days, Seattle Slew was voted champion two-year-old colt for 1976.

Not meaning to deny any credit at all to the horse, but does this indicate that SS's class was not all that good?

[OTM Al]

No BC back then, so winning the Champagne was then close to winning the BC Juvie is now. Many of the players would have been there instead of doing the dodgem two step like they do now.

[Kelso]

Originally Posted by OTM Al

No BC back then, so winning the Champagne was then close to winning the BC Juvie is now. Many of the players would have been there instead of doing the dodgem two step like they do now.

Thanks, Al.