Hostilities and critics

Rachel Alexandra had not even gotten to her stall when the critical comments began sizzling through the internet. She ruined the bid for the Triple Crown (kinda like Birdstone ended Smarty Jones') and how it'd be better for racing if Mine That Bird had won cause he won't be off to the breeding shed - he'll be around for fans to follow. She didn't deserve to be there. She hadn't beaten anything in the Oaks 'cause the good horses wouldn't run against her.

 So in one breath there's criticism she hadn't had enough competition then in the next she stepped up where she had some and that was wrong!  She's a legitimate filly. There is no guarantee Mine That Bird will run next year or later. Many fans are fickle - many stopped following Funny Cide once he was through the Triple Crown. The Triple Crown isn't supposed to be easy - that's why few achieve it and those who do are special.

However it's unfair to overlook this filly is special. It gave coverage of her and Mine That Bird so we didn't have to relive the Preakness with Barbaro ad nauseum. Yes accidents happen - it's tragic and heartbreaking. Some within the industry callously suggested Rachel shouldn't run because of Eight Belles last year and Go For Wand's breakdwn. That's like saying the colts shouldn't run because George Washington and Barbaro broke down so therefore all are unsound waiting for an accident. There have been other fillies in the Classics that did well - Winning Colors, Genuine Risk, Rags To Riches.

There was no disgrace in 2nd or 3rd today. This is a beautiful filly that can run. Let's treasure watching these two run. Congratulations to all the connections.