With Justify now retired, we get to see Hofburg take his run toward the top of the 3-year old class.  Unfortunately, I can’t say I love his chances in The Curlin tomorrow, even though at first glance he looks “SO MUCH THE CLASS”.  But I can’t help notice that he was well beaten by Bourbon Resolution last summer at Saratoga.  For a first effort, it was okay, but it didn’t shout I love Saratoga.

There are a number of “negative inferences” readily available to any quality handicapper, which will come readily to mind when dealing with a M/L of 1/2.  Additionally,  I always like to caution about betting short money when we are looking at a deep closer at Saratoga, especially when we don’t have confirmation the horse loves Saratoga.

He probably will win, but I will certainly be betting against Hofburg… but that’s just me…

Justify’s connection calls it a career, at least a racing career for this magnificent race horse.    When I think back at the arduous task he was asked to conquer, I have only awe and admiration for this amazing runner.  When I think back over the past 41 years, he’s right up there with Seattle Slew, Affirmed and Alydar.    Noting he is the 13th successful Triple Crown, but I count it as the 14th (because I credit Alydar – right after Affirmed).

The economics of today’s racing, combined with the “filling” issue in his hoof makes it the most expected outcome, but not the desired outcome.

At one point we had the potential of seeing McKinzie, Bolt ‘D’oro, Justify compete together on the race track. Bolt never developed as we hoped, and didn’t rally after facing McKinzie early this season.  And of course, McKinzie injured himself, but I fully expect he will return and return to the head of this class.

These are an amazing group of 3-year olds, it looks deep and there the promise of the many will not disappoint.