LongLiveBigRed: Secretariat’s first turn move at Pimlico was jaw dropping, if not eye popping. Like cocoa says, it has never been duplicated. It likely never will be again. Any idea what his speed was compared to the rest of the field in those 200 or so yards?
Frank Robinson and Frenchy Schwartz from the Daily Racing Form would certainly agree with you. Secretariat should have been credited with three records in a row.
Secretariat had a different dominating style in all three races that likely will not be seen again. His times have yet to be broken, especially the Derby and, of course, the Belmont. Hands down the best Triple Crown champion.
You don’t see too many horses fracturing a hind leg at two, having five screws put in, continuing to race and then never losing. Personal Ensign’s last race was one that some have said could have been scripted by Hollywood and may be the most exciting finish in Breeder’s Cup history. Hopelessly beaten by Winning Colors on a muddy track not to her liking, she ran down the Derby champion to win by a nose at the wire. The Breeder’s Cup Distaff victory capped off a career that American tracks haven’t seen in 104 years. One of my favorite racehorses ridden by one of my favorite jockeys – Randy Romero.
I agree with Mary. buckpasser, you have taught me volumes from your personal experience. You do it in a manner that is not so irritating and aggravating, as some seem to relish in. Keep up the good work, I need to learn more.
I have the greatest respect for Ruffian as the finest filly of the last 40 years. She is now ranked ahead of legends such as Dr. Fager, Kelso, Native Dancer and Damascus. Ahead of Zenyatta, yes. Better than these four, that may be a stretch.
LLBR: Secretariat never did clone himself as the syndicate wished. Risen Star may have been his best son, Lady’s Secret his best daughter. A. P. Indy was a nice grandson. Notice that Bold Ruler is on both sides of A. P. Indy’s pedigree. Bold Ruler (1957), Secretariat (1973) and Risen Star (1988) are three generations who all won the Preakness. This eight time leading sire in North America and great runner from the 1950’s is languishing at #160 and deserves to be miles higher.
LongLiveBigRed: Out of curiosity, what is the fastest time on dirt of any racehorse in the world to Secretariat’s 2:24.00 since 1973?
I wish this author and others would check their facts before putting out a story about Secretariat’s phenomenal Belmont performance. As most know, he did not run each quarter faster than the last at Elmont. He absolutely did race this way at Churchill Downs, setting a Derby and track record that still stand 39 years later.
Now that Universal Fairs has bought Meadow Farm and will run the State Fair of Virginia there, we can breath easier. I plan to move to Richmond next year and will see the foaling shed in person. Anybody been to Colonial Downs to see the racing?