Historical Perspective

[richiebee]

Excellent work by Fairmount, who has been on the trail of the Calumet runners
for quite a few months now. The only thing missing from Fairmount\'s analysis is
the asterisk next to \"1968\" when mentioning Calumet\'s last Triple Crown
triumph. In the 1968 Derby, Calumet\'s Forward Pass was moved up after the
disqualification of Dancer\'s Image following a failed drug test, the only
medication related DQ in Derby history, although we all know now that Northern
Dancer raced on Lasix in the 1963 Derby, a dose of furosemide which changed the
course of thoroughbred racing and breeding for the 40 years which followed.

As to the tributes paid to Secretariat by Frank D. and others, what is most
impressive about his 3YO season is that he held track/course records at 12
furlongs on the main track and the turf at Belmont, records which stood for
decades. Although Secretariat had his trouble in races beginning with \"W\", his
3YO campaign, considering the performances on two surfaces, is arguably the
best in history, although Spectacular Bid\'s 4YO campaign, where he dominated
while carrying weight at distances between seven and 10 furlongs, must be
considered.

Its late March so I can say that I am not really impressed by any 3YO I have
seen in the preps, though I am looking at TAP\'s Master Plan as a colt to watch
down the road. The UAE Derby was only his second dirt race and he passed most
of the field, though after watching Arrogate and Mind Your Biscuits, it might
be said that given the track conditions it was a surface which did not deter
closers. An 850,000 2YO purchase (his sire Twirling Candy stands for 20K),
would like to see this one in the Belmont, possibly off a turf prep.

Its a jazz hunch play, that Creator and Master Plan would win the Belmont in
consecutive years.

Respectfully submitted,

Richiebee
Self appointed Ancient Historian
T-generate emeritus