The Belmont Stakes

[OliviaM]

I was at the track to watch California Chrome attempt to win the Triple Crown. He was pinned on the rail down the backstretch maybe had to work to get outside and go wide, but he just didn't have that kick for the last quarter. That is the test. It was a long fun day, and disappointed because I really wanted to another Triple Crown live. I have seen three and a few failures. So yes I did fly from Hawaii for the race and to see the granddaughter. Catching up with family and friends, and try to get in a Met game before returning. Talk soon all.

[DonnaT]

I knew Chrome wasn't a 1½ miler. Told my wife it would probably come in 5th. I was close.

[Martina Hall]

That race was probably the best example of how to screw the favorite. I've watched thousands of races, and seen a version of this many times. Horses don't like running between two others, and they especially dislike being completely surrounded by half the field, boxed in on a pace that wasn't his idea. Don't bet on a short-priced horse.

[OliviaM]

You're right Donna, his pedigree does suggest that, pedigree is not 100% of the story. Martina has point. The horse stumbled out of the gate and brushed the 3. Certainly not enough to be disastrous, but might have effected the horse's comfort zone at the start. Then, as Martina pointed out, pinned on the rail down the backstretch added to the discomfort. But he was off the rail before six furlongs and moved out side easily. Maybe some extra ground to cover, but the last quarter was a slow 26 and change. If the had it he wins. And last thing. In his 7 wins, Chrome was in the lead at the top of the stretch and out of the money when not. Yes Martina, COMFORT. Oh and importantly, in 4 races 2 of my top 3 choices finished 2nd and 3rd, 2 placed (including a 32-1 shot caught at the wire),
and a show. My two best bets of the day won with one exacta and had Bafferts horse at 9-1. Always a nice day at the track won or lose. Trying to get there once or twice before I leave.