I think Santa Anita bullied Sherman into running CC back in SA Derby

[phil23]

Sherman says CC is running in the Santa Anita Derby. He also says his horse was, \"knocked out\" by the effort in the San Felipe, but now doing \"acting really good.\" Un huh.

ON Thorobred LA the day after the race, Kurt Hoover practically begged and badgered Sherman TWICE to confirm that he would run back. I think this sort of stuff played a big role here. Sherman is not exactly one of the big name guys and probably doesn\'t want to have SA officials/media flakes pissed at him. So he\'s going to run back and everyone will be happy.

Except of course those that want the horse to peak on Derby day. He\'s sitting on a  great pattern now, assuming he went forward just a little bit in his last. Basically three paired tops in a row, no huge explosions. Nothing good can come from running back this quick. If he explodes he wastes it one too early. If he backs up, his pattern is 0/2/X just waiting to happen on the big day. Even if he just  pairs again, it\'s a needless, extra exertion and race.

Too bad. The horse is solid and clearly can run fast. With just a bit of time...

Also of note, in the article Sherman calls it a \"relief\" to have the issue of running back settled. Exactly...he\'s relieved that he doesn\'t have to be badgered anymore by SA officials and media flaks. Very poor form by SA who clearly are concerned about pumping up their bottom line with the big name horse on SA Derby day.

http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/83932/california-chrome-to-run-in-santa-anita-derby

[vired]

I couldn\'t agree more. they are already in the derby. these owners/breeders may never in their lifetime have a derby horse. what a shame.