Derby Prep

The Smarty Jones is running today at Oaklawn Park. This is Oaklawns first race on the derby trail.
I have been in the process of getting my early pedigree contenders together and have already come up with a couple that look outstanding.
The way I handicap by pedigree puts me on horses that can handle the classic distances. There is a huge difference between races up to 1 1/8 and races of 1 1/4 and more. This is the primary reason that favorites fail so often in the Derby.
One of my early favorites is Archarcharch. He has the breeding to excell at the longer distances and it's really a surprise that he's been able to win already in a sprint. Trained by Mr. Fires, a long time favorite of mine, I am hoping he goes on to bigger and better things.
Archarcharch is entered today in R8 @ Oaklawn, the Smarty Jones. If he can win this I feel he may be on his way to being a serious contender for future Derby preps and the Derby itself. I really think he will blow them away today.

Backstretch

Triple Crown Races

I am starting to work on my contenders for the TC races. I handicap for those races by pedigree.
It is very time consuming but has always been worth it. In recent years I touted Smarty Jones, Barbaro, (I called his exact winning margin in the derby), Big Brown and others down through the years.
As soon as I complete my pedigree studies I will be posting my early contenders here.
I hope you will drop in and leave any comments you may have and I will also anawer all questions as best I can.

Backstretch

Backstretch New Blog

I am just starting this blog and have no experience doing this. I will have to learn as I go along so please bear with me.

In the meantime, if you wish you may leave comments or suggestions.

Backstretch