Derby stories, disappointment

Quality Road, Square Eddie and Willy Win all dropped out of the Derby this week with non-lifethreatening injuries and this morning I Want Revenge was added to the list when some heat was raised in the left front ankle. While it may be nothing or may be something, this close to the race of his life and with the tenacity he showed in his last race a little something may have turned into a big something. As disappointing as it is for trainers, owners and yes the fans too it underscores people *do* attempt to do right by the horses. In races this big everything has to be right.

It's been a rollercoaster ride just this week with a colt breaking loose Monday as Chocolate Candy was working. The loose colt instead slammed into a 2 year old filly, knocking her down and landing on her with fatal injuries resulting. The loss of a promising 2 year old is always saddening but underscores why to many a loose horse is always cause for alarm. At some stables it's not that big of a deal but seeing things like this changes everything.

 The stories from the Derby are always highlights that add strands to the fabric of racing and this year is no exception. While some watch for the betting and others watch for the celebrities most watch for the horses.

 There's Larry Jones, a true horseman that because of the harassment following the tragic breakdown last year of Eight Belles has announced retirement. He brings the nice horse Friesan Fire to the Derby with a legitimate shot. There's the $20,000 bargain General Quarters trained by an ex-teacher with one horse in the barn - this one; there's Pioneerof the Nile who's the only G1, Chocolate Candy and Mr. Hot Stuff meeting up for a re-race of the Santa Anita but under a different track. There's the longshot from the southwest Summer Bird and two legitimate horses in Regal Ransom and Desert Party.

Papa Claim can't be be ruled out nor can D Wayne Lucas' longshot Flying Private or Nowhere to Hide. Very nice field, promises to be exciting!