Where does Lava Man rank?
Now that Lava Man has proved he's as adept at winning Grade I races on both dirt and the grass like the great John Henry, where does he rank in terms of all-time great horses we've seen here in California?
Anyone would have to be impressed with his Pacific Classic score Sunday, running some quick early fractions before running away with Del Mar's signature race when they turned for home. I would still rank him a notch below John Henry because John Henry shipped out of state and won races like the prestigious Arlington Million whereas Lava Man has shown only a fondness for SoCal tracks to date.
Thoughts?
Have to agree with your assessment of John Henry, a cut above many horse, past and present.
I missed the live coverage of the Pacific Classic (had to work) but managed to catch a replay of the race. I was amazed by Lava Man's sprint at the 5/8 pole. Impressive, to be sure.
I have to assume the Goodwin (hope I got that right) during Oak Tree is next. We'll see if he gets a soft field like Rock Hard Ten did last year, or if he has to work for it.
As for Horse Of The Year, I think only the Easterners will take notice if he moves on to take the Breeder's Cup.
As for other So Cal horses, one is near and dear to my heart: Megahertz. She was thrilling to watch. She too had a weakness when shipping, to Arlington and the Breeder's Cup. Still, for So Cal turf racing, she was top notch.
And when are we going to see some articles by you in the paper? I'm tired of seeing wire sources for horse racing news.
My column will resume this Friday. I've been on vacation the past two weeks, but I'm re-energized and ready to go. I can't wait for the Breeders' Cup!
Lava Man has impressed me and I will have to stop picking against him and start rooting for him. I think to be a true champion or horse of the year you need to ship beyond your backyard.