Way to go Smarty Jones!!!!

[cowboylogic]

How cool was that today!!?

Cindy

[cowboylogic]

How cool was that today!!?

Cindy

[Snowbird]

I think at the Belmont all the other horses should give Smarty a buy in and walk. He deserves it, what a heart that horse has. That's what happens when you don't grow up as a prince with prime ground. Good footing just makes him fly whether it mud or sand.

[Beethoven]

Thats was awesome!! GO SMARTY JONES!!!!

[lauriep]

Snowbird, be careful of using that "bye" word - you might get CellosPride over here thinking he in some way will qualify for ADA protection! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[wtywmn4]

Very cool Cowboylogic, very cool indeed!!! http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif Hopefully, we get to see him be a Triple Crown winner..

[Party Rose]

GREAT race.........

Congrats to everyone involved.......

Let's keep our fingers crossed........

[baymare]

I can't believe I missed it! At least I knew right where to turn for an instant result--- the COTH boards.

And I missed it for the best reason-- I was having a great ride and didn't want to get off.

GO SMARTY!!!! A true triple crown prospect is just what we need to brighten these dismal times...

[Party Rose]

baymare
I'm sure that you can catch it on the evening news or a sports update show. It really was a great race.

[Stupid Question Alter]

lauriep,

Do not jest about the ADA. I feel very strongly that Imperialism was NOT offered a reasonable accommodation for his sunken eye & plan to contest the outcome of the race.

SQA.

[Glimmerglass]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Snowbird:
I think at the Belmont all the other horses should give Smarty a buy in and walk. He deserves it, what a heart that horse has. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Nothing is worth having in the end if you haven't earned or fought for it ... so I hope that he encounters another solid field at Belmont.

The last Grade I stakes win whereby only one horse raced (called a walk-over) was a "feat" in 1980 by the immortal racing legend Spectacular Bid who ironically like Smarty won the '79 Kentucky, Preakness and was the favorite for the Belmont.

[SCEqQueen]

The race brought tears to my eyes today. It was wonderful! I think it's great how the Triple Crown races can bring all types and disciplines of horse people together.

[zedcadjna]

I know it brought tears to my eyes I was jumping up and down in the last stretch as he went flying while Im holding my 5 month old.. Who by the way was laughing the whole time... http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif Great horse!!! I just love that little guy! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[sanctuary]

That was just awesome. I just loved watching that horse click through gears. He looked like he could've gone another mile. His ears were up and he looked like he was having the time of his life! It gave me chills. <span class="ev_code_BLUE">Just AWESOME!!</span>

This will also help out the struggling TB racing industry in the PA/NJ area.

[Drakaina16]

I was jumping up and down and screaming like a maniac as they came for home! It was so awesome, you could really just see him dig in and sail out in front of the competition. He made it look too easy!

Danya

[seal]

That was an absolutely thrilling race! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif It was almost as electrifying as being there in person, jumping up and down, screaming like a maniac, two in front of the television. I can only imagine what the neighbors must have thought as we were yelling, "Go Smarty go!"

[LargeJuniorHunter]

Should you have been in the room with me as I watched Smarty cross the finish line, you would have heard:
"Go Smarty, its chur burf-day, we gonna partay like its chur burf-day!!!!"

Yes. I know. I am THE rapper. I'll get ya'll my card. Have your people call my people.

Oh ya...
I've been shot TEN times! Beat that 50 Cent.

[Spot]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Snowbird, be careful of using that "bye" word - you might get CellosPride over here thinking he in some way will qualify for ADA protection! <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif

Great minds must think alike!

I was thinking the EXACT same thing and looking down the posts to see if she made it here yet! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

"Spot"

[Snowbird]

Oh! Gimmerglass and LaurieP,I'm sorry I didn't think anyone would take me seriously. It was just the high of the moment watching that proud horse take on the world with his ears perked forward so pleased with himself, it just didn't seem there should be any issue.

The way he lengthened his stride to prove there was no question who won. And I saw poor Lionheart with his ears pinned back knowing he couldn't catch him. That must have been quite a blast to his pride. Thoroughbreds are so proud and arrogant that accepting defeat must have shattered his self confidence.

Should he be compelled to lose yet a third time?Just pass off my transgression as the enthusiasm of the moment and not based on logic or reasonable consideration.

[lauriep]

Oh, I knew you were not serious, Snowbird, but if you had been following the trainwreck of the Margie Engle thread, you would know why the word "bye" is pushing the buttons of a few of us! Hence, my two grins and a wink in my response. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Giddyup]

My pizza delivery girl made out on this race...
just as they finally got Rock Hard Ten into the gate my doorbell rang. I flew to the door, threw the $20 at the delivery girl, yelled "Here! The race is about to start, keep the change!", grabbed my pizza and ran back to the tv. A nice $4 tip for her, but it was worth it to make it back to the TV within 30 seconds to see the race!

[Hasty]

That was such a GREAT race. There was SO much anticipation with the shoe being throw and then rock hard ten throwing a hissy fit getting into the gate.....by the time they left the gate I was already shaking! I am so excited for Smarty Jones! I HOPE he can do it at Belmont....

<span class="ev_code_PURPLE">GO SMARTY! </span>

[Lord Helpus]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Glimmerglass:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Snowbird:
I think at the Belmont all the other horses should give Smarty a buy in and walk. He deserves it, what a heart that horse has. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Nothing is worth having in the end if you haven't earned or fought for it ... so I hope that he encounters another solid field at Belmont. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Be careful what you say! Secretariat's immortal Belmont Stakes 34 length win was over only 3 or 4 horses, all of whom he had beaten soundly before.

That is the very nature of the beast --- once a horse has proven his superiority, other top horses are not sent out to have their hearts broken racing for second place. They are saved for other G1 races that they can win. Owners of horses who are one slight rung lower on the talent scale will enter the Belmont and be proud and happy (as they should be) to forever be able to say that they ran second to Smarty Jones in his Triple Crown triumph.

I bet that only Rock Hard Ten will offer any serious competition in the Belmont, just as Sham offered the only "serious" competition to Secretariat.

Trainers know that they cannot send a top horse out again and again and have him get beat and expect him to be the same horse. Losing will take the fight and heart out of them.

[Jess]

Mr. Smarty was certainly in a class of his own.. I am not sure if this has been said or what, but did ya'll notice how calm he walked around before the race? He seemed to know he was the best and unbeatable so why waste his energy prancing and getting exciting as most horses would.. He was EXTREMLY well mannerd - i was impressed with him from just that aspect.. I give him so much credit, as well as his jockey.. Smarty looks like all you have to do is ask and hes gonna take off flying without you asking again.

Is he a colt/stud?

[va2txrider]

Okay, so I called up my mom after the race and said, "Wow did you see that GREAT race?" and her reply was, "aren't they all fixed?"

UURRRGHHHHH!!!! I just didn't even know how to respond!

On a better note, did any of you notice how all the other horses had their ears pinned back as if they were running their guts out, and Smarty's ears were lolliping all over, and pricked straight up at the end????

What a horse! I can't wait for a new triple crown winner! We are hoping to have a Belmont Stakes party and have all my horsey friends over to watch!

[teal tea]

I taped it b/c I was picking up my car from the shop. It's just not the same not watching it live. I haven't been able to show for a while, but if there's a show on the same day as the Belmont, I'll have a dilemma. I want Smarty to be the next Triple Crown winner and I want to watch it live, while he makes history.

[seal]

Yeah, I hate it when you greet someone all excited about the race, and then one of your barn buddies has to burst your bubble by saying,

"Ah that Smarty had no competiton this year. None of the other 3 year olds are any good." Say what? Was that a big blast of negativity of does she know something I don't?

[2Dogs]

I was in a sports bar with my SO (sort of) and I was pounding so loudly and shouting so gleefully that other patrons thought starting moving away from the "crazy" lady (obviously not all race horse fans - pathetic as THAT is) - jeez, some wanted to watch GOLF fer crying out loud! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

What a very great race and pshaw to anyone who says he didn't have competition - he just blew it away!

[jumperpony_Blaze]

i was so excited when he won!
my mom got a little teary eyed http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

[2487lyf]

<span class="ev_code_PURPLE">Alright, I'm going to be a sour apple here. I'm sorry, but when I look at Smarty Jones, I see a racehorse, not a Triple Crown winner. I'll admit that his record is impressive, and his win in the Preakness was very impressive, but I think he is going to be another 2/3er. I think that Rock Hard Ten will win the Belmont. The only reason SJ has done this well is because none of the other 3 year olds are better, but that doesn't make him the best. If he ran any other year, he wouldn't have won. I actually think it would almost be a bad thing if he does win the Belmont because he is not even close to equivilant of any other Triple Crown winners. He is just lucky IMO. I guess time will tell...

I think that his story would make an awesome book or movie if he did win though http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif</span>

[Madeline]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Nattie:
[color:PURPLE]Alright, I'm going to be a sour apple here. I'm sorry, but when I look at Smarty Jones, I see a racehorse, not a Triple Crown winner. I'll admit that his record is impressive, and his win in the Preakness was very impressive, but I think he is going to be another 2/3er. I think that Rock Hard Ten will win the Belmont. The only reason SJ has done this well is because none of the other 3 year olds are better, but that doesn't make him the best. If he ran any other year, he wouldn't have won. I actually think it would almost be a bad thing if he does win the Belmont because he is not even close to equivilant of any other Triple Crown winners. He is just lucky IMO. I guess time will tell...
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Who are we going to believe? A high school kid from Md. or Gary Stevens?

It would be great for racing to have a Triple Crown winner again. There are none living now. Especially if he comes with a good story. If a horse can win all 3, and do it undefeated, well, that's good enough for me.

[Texan By The Grace Of God]

Just a question..how old is Smarty Jones's owner? and where did Smarty Jones get his name from..its pretty cute!!

[Snowbird]

The owner is 76 years old. I happened to notice because that's only one year older than me. The horse was named after his Mother-In-Law but since it was a colt they couldn't call it Mildred so they decided on Smarty Jones. I guess that was her maiden name.

I watched the pre-race stuff on ESPN.

[FourGreen]

GO BUCKS COUNTY PA!

[Albion]

You know, we hear this EVERY year. 'Oh, if it had been another year, so-and-so wouldn't have won.' Yes, well, perhaps Sham would've laid the smack down had he not been running aginst Secretariat. Who knows? Luck of the draw. I would be thrilled to see another Triple Crown winner. We've been waiting a long time.

Everyone I've talked to in the racing world has been very impressed with Smarty Jones - he's a good horse. Period. Not, 'Oh, he's the best of a crappy crop.' He's just a good horse. A close friend of mine has ridden a fair number of pretty damn decent horses - like With Anticipation. She's currently riding for a top trainer in KY - I called her yesterday after the race & she was singing his praises. She's BEEN around top horses (both chasers and flat horses) for years and she's STILL impressed. His Preakness run was beautiful & that was a beautiful ride by the jock. He's relaxed, professional, and gets the job done. He's winning G1 races - doesn't that prove enough? http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

If Smarty Jones wins the Belmont, that proves that he IS in the league of the other Triple Crown winners - because he won ALL three legs of the Triple Crown. Do you think he's out running against 3rd rate claimers? Give me a break. Horses like Secretariat don't come along every day - nor does a Triple Crown winner. If a three year old (THREE! They're babies!) can win 3 G1 races in the span of what, five or six weeks - well, that's good enough for me. You belong in the history books.

[2487lyf]

We'll see Madeline... I did guess the results right on the Preakness http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/winkgrin.gif It would be great for racting, but not this year. He isn't a good example of Triple Crown material.

[Drifter]

Congratulations to our Home Town HERO! It was so exciting. Everything I've seen and read says that this is a real contender for the Triple Crown. I agree!!! He obviously still had plenty left, and even the jockey said so! love a horse with a lot of heart!
GO ALL THE WAY SMARTY JONES!!!!!!!!!!

[Snowbird]

This dialog just goes to prove what I have already learned the hard way. Success is not rewarded it's punished.

A long shot that one suspected because he didn;t have the "correct" Credentials actually comes up to prove his worth and he does it!

He succeeds and breaks the Preakness record with a lead of 11.5 strides. But, now he's just crap out of a bad year. Shame on you!

[lauriep]

Snow, I think I heard that Mr. Chapman celebrated his 78th birthday three days after the Derby.

Nattie, in the last few years we've had no less than five horses that won the Derby and the Preakness, but failed in the Belmont. I watched every race and every race wrap up, and not once did a beaten jockey say the things that Mike Smith and Gary Stevens said. These jocks have been in the races this horse has won, and are wishing their horses had been born in a different year. That says a whole lot to me.

You are too young to remember Affirmed. He wasn't a particularly impressive runner, not flashy, didn't win by huge amounts, but he got the job done, was very workmanlike (he was known for that) and won the three races that count. No one has faulted him for that, and Smarty is a similar horse in a lot of ways. What seems to be missing from Smarty's picture is a Sham, or Alydar, to fight him for his wins. Certainly not his fault that that horse doesn't exist this year! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Chestnut Manure]

Now youre an expert on racing too!

[Snowbird]

I don't think I'm too young to remember when Napoleon took Waterloo. Well, You could be right and he's 78. Yeah! that makes me much younger than than I thought.

Lionheart gave it a good try and the oversized horse that wouldn't go in the Gate was left in the dirt. Does anyone know what Smarty Jones bloodlines are? I think Imperialism was disadvantaged by losing the shoe and getting a new shoe at race time.

Laurie, I'm so old I remember Man of War.

[Room 31]

I didn't get to see the race http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_frown.gif but I saw Smarty go in the Derby and he was GREAT! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif I really hope he wins the Belmont!! (Canadian born rider too! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif)

[clearound]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Nattie:
It would be great for racting, but not this year. He isn't a good example of Triple Crown material. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Give me a break!!!!!!!!!!

Seems that if some of you don't have someone/something to rip apart, you just ain't happy.

[Horseshowaddict]

I wansnt impressed by Funny Cide either, but come on... Smarty made decent times and got respectable speed figures in the slop and on a fairly decent surface. He won some races against good competition, and so on. I think he deserves to win. He tries, and hes a nice horse. Recalling history, werent some people quite skeptical about seabiscuit before he beat war admiral? I think he has some fairly classy competition in Rock Hard Ten, Eddington, and even Lion Heart. The triple crown is for great horses, but there is also luck. Who are the gods smiling on http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif. With 8 great races, it seems they are looking right at Smarty Jones.

[2487lyf]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by clearound:
Seems that if some of you don't have someone/something to rip apart, you just ain't happy. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Umm I NEVER rip anyone apart... I just am not very impressed by Smarty Jones... everyone gets so hyped up every year when a horse wins the Derby and Preakness and then year after year they lose in the Belmont. I think that's going to be the case again this year. Just my opinion... we are all entitled to an opinion last time I checked... http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_confused.gif

[wtywmn4]

Could not agree more with Lauriep and Snowbird. This is one very formidable horse. He goes to the gate, and knows his job. I am hoping to be able to see one more triple crown winner. I do remember Affirmed, and this horse is very much like him. Snowbird, think he has Mr Prospector and Foolish Pleasure in his lineage. If you go back, he also has Neartic, Tom Fool, Nashua, Native Dancer, Bold Ruler (one of my fav's) and (drum roll) yes ladies & gents, Secretariat!! This horse is bred to run..From the looks of it, he enjoys his job immensely.

[FourGreen]

I think Smarty's owner also owns Chapman Ford near my house, anyone know?

[2Dogs]

posted May. 15, 2004 07:14 PM
http://www.courier-journal.com/cjsports/news2004/04/28/E1-smart0428-13814.html

Page and Spot - great story posted on another board, with answers.

[Lord Helpus]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Nattie:
It would be great for racting, but not this year. He isn't a good example of Triple Crown material. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I would be interested in what part of Smarty Jones you find to be lacking when it comes to your concept of Triple Crown Material.

If it is pedigree, I would be happy to compare his pedigree to Seattle Slew's or Affirmed's (admittedly not Secretariats, but he is an anomaly by anyone's standards).

If by race record, I will be happy to compare his to other esteemed Triple Crown winners of the past.

If it is by virtue of being a Pennsylvania bred, I will then have to point out that you must also find Storm Cat and Go for Wand not up to snuff if that is what throws you. Note that he was foaled in Pa, but physically bred in Ky. His sire stood (before Smarty became Smarty) for $50,000 and is by the incredible "sire of sires", Gone West. That is hardly Chicken Feed. His dam is a winner of 12 races and is by a Champion. Smarty's pedigree is a very nice one. The media spin on it, to make a better story, notwithstanding. His sire will, no doubt, stand for $100,000 next year.

If it is the "down home, awww shucks" image of his connections, then you have been pulled into the media hype along with the rest of the non racing public.

I AM knowledgable about racing and breeding and, while there are some horses who are better bred and owned by blue bloods with vast 3000 acre farms and oil wells in Texas or the middle east, there is NOTHING associated with Smartiy Jones' pedigree or race record that makes him an unworthy Triple Crown Champion

In those two respects, he is FAR more worthy than Real Quiet, Silver Charm, War Emblem (all lacking in pedigree) Charismatic (lacking in race record) as compared to Smarty Jones. (Those are the recent 2 out of 3'er's that I can remember. I am not leaving others out because I feel that they are more worthy than SJ, but because I can't think of them.)

So, what areas do you find him lacking in?

[Albion]

Nattie, you said that Smarty Jones' winning performances could be put down to 'being lucky'.

Yes, there is an element of 'luck' in the upper echelons of horse racing - just like most sports - what post position you draw, what the track surface is like, who you're running against. And whether or not you'll be running against Secretariat.

But just like winning a tri-color at Indoors, luck alone is NOT going to win you a G1 race. The horse has already won over 7 different distances (maybe 8 now that he's won the Preakness?) at 5 different tracks. Are we going to get to see him go on & race until the age of 5 or 6? I doubt it - that's the way the race breeding business goes these days, SO many talented horses retire after their 3 year old year. He's just 3 - of course he hasn't 'proven' himself like winners of years past. How could he? They've already entered the hallowed halls of horse racing history. But plenty of those 'big names' that we look back on with a mixture of awe and adoration started out as little names that few thought would rise to greatness. Horse racing is filled with stories like that. The business is such a crap shoot - paying your $500K studfee for Storm Cat does NOT guarentee you will have a stakes winner on your hands when your foal arrives.

It's not pedigree or yearling sales price that truly makes a racehorse - it's heart. And that goes at any level.

[Spot]

2 Dogs - what a neat, personal story - thanks!

"Spot"

[Drifter]

Paige-

I know they have a car dealership in the Northeast which I know is somewhat near you. I just read in the local papers that if you test drive one of their cars, you get a free "Smarty
Jones" baseball cap!! Needless to say, the test drives were way up!

[Giddyup]

Some of the articles I've read on Smarty refer to him as small or undersized. Anyone know exactly how many hands he is?

[clearound]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Drifter:
Paige-

I know they have a car dealership in the Northeast which I know is somewhat near you. I just read in the local papers that if you test drive one of their cars, you get a free "Smarty
Jones" baseball cap!! Needless to say, the test drives were way up! <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I believe that they own more than one dealership and that they are located in the Bensalem area as well as the Northeast.

[va2txrider]

I remember as a kid that I was not very impressed with Seattle Slew, and thought he was just "lucky." Given his progeny record, boy was I WRONG!!!!

[va2txrider]

P.S. Smarty Jones' pedigree is on the delmar site, fyi.

[rileyt]

I thought this was a GREAT race. And I think Smarty Jones is the real deal.

I have never seen a triple crown winner (I was 5 when Affirmed won, and not into racing yet).

Over the past several years, I have SO wanted a horse to win the triple crown, ... Silver Charm, War Admiral, Charismatic... all of them. But I always watched the Belmont with some trepidation, knowing, deep down, that maybe these horses would only win the Triple Crown if they got a "break".

After watching Smarty Jones in the Derby and the Preakness,... I don't have that feeling. I watch this horse, and I think,... he has EVERYTHING. He can run in the slop, he can run in deep footing, he is sound (knock wood), he is adjustible, he has the heart of a lion, he has a perfect record. And for the first time, maybe, I have an appreciation for what a Triple Crown winner SHOULD be. He should be all of those things. When you go 26 years without a winner, you start to wonder, is the "test" fair? Well, yes,... but it takes a VERY special horse to win it. A horse that CREATES his own luck by being a dominating force. A triple crown winner should be UNSTOPABLE.

Maybe this year, finally, Smarty Jones is that horse. I hope so.

[windycity]

He is 15.3

And he kicks ASS! It is just that simple. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[lauriep]

Snow, if I could remember seeing Man O'War (and Seabiscuit, Gallant Fox, Whirlaway, Citation), I wouldn't mind being 78 either! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Snowbird]

Yep! My generation did get to live the best of history of the world. I had a Man of War grandson, and another 3rd generation down from Whirlaway. He was a funny horse, Whirlaway was the first one they had to use blinkers on because he became so fascinated by the crowds and playing to them he forgot he was racing. He also had another quirk, they couldn't use the same jockey for another race because if they did he wouldn't bother to run.

The horse I had with his blood was a character too! He was a 3 month horse, anyone who took him had a star for 3 months and then he just shut down until you had to back him into the Ingate. Get a new rider and he went back to being a star, just easily bored.

Can you imagine LauriP being so old that I remember when TV was only on one night a week for 2 hours and I went to the World's Fair where it was introduced and only went from one room to the next. No body believed then it would last, we thought it was just a new fangled quirk. They talked about video phones and we all thought that would be horrible. Imagine having to be dressed up all the time just to answer the phone.

That was all so long ago that I was a model for the "Minute Rub" company for a TV Commercial. They sent me to a Dude Ranch and I rode a horse owned by (now don't fall off your chair laughing at me) the actor who played Lamont Cranston (The Shadow) on radio. YEP! and those mean spirited old cow boys didn't tell me that a western horse was trained to gallop when you hands go up and stop when you drop them.

Well this horse kept running away with me a dead gallop because the saddle felt like someone had tied a club chair onto the horse and I couldn't find anyplace where there wasn't leather. SO I was scared and what do you do when you're scared? Your hands go up!

[wrightwoodfarms]

Greatness is something he will earn over time as he continues to prove himself, but I am thrilled with his performance in the Preakness and hope he continues on to the Triple Crown. I'd also like to loudly applaud his trainer for not working him in the two weeks between races, but just giving him light gallops. Did you see the interview with the trainer on the walk over where they asked him if the "backers" should be nervous that the horse hadn't been worked between races and he said that perhaps he may have made a mistake, but he had done WHAT HE THOUGHT WAS BEST FOR THE HORSE!!! The trainer is a Triple Crown winner in my book.

[2487lyf]

Well, well, well... I win! Smarty isn't a Triple Crown winner after all! I feel really sorry for the family though... what an amazing story that would have been.

I wish Rock Hard Ten would have won... then I would have really been right, but I was right that Smarty was not of Triple Crown calibur.

[SCEqQueen]

Just because Smarty lost doesn't mean that he was not Triple Crown calibur. The horse ran his heart out. He won the first two legs and was second in the Belmont....I think that any horse that can do that is of Triple Crown calibur, he jsut got beat out by the realities of horse racing.

Regardless, he is a champion in everyone's hearts..American will always love Smarty Jones.

Congrats to the family and anyone involved with him!

[*Next*Star*To*Shine*]

Great race! Too bad Smarty Jones didn't win though.

[jumperpony_Blaze]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR> Well, well, well... I win! Smarty isn't a Triple Crown winner after all! I feel really sorry for the family though... what an amazing story that would have been.

I wish Rock Hard Ten would have won... then I would have really been right, but I was right that Smarty was not of Triple Crown calibur.
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

not to be rude, but don't you think that is a bit harsh?
i mean, just because a horse doesn't have bloodlines going back to the 'great' racehorses doesn't mean that he can't be fast. also, some of the horses that do have those bloodlines aren't fast.

please don't flame. they will be used to toast marshmellows so i can eat a smore.

[Heather]

Thankfully the connections of both Smarty and Birdstone have 100 times the class of certain posters here. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

I screamed and screamed until I was hoarse, and then I cried.

[Snowbird]

Well there are always those who think the bloodline is what counts. Snobs are snobs after all if they have nothing else to brag about they brag about their relatives.

Smarty did more for this country during the past 5 weeks than any horse has for 20 years. He's a big winner in my book even without the Triple Crown. He made all us common folks feel good and we all discovered we could find something we could all believe in and share with each other and that's not a small victory.

He can put his shoes in my barn any day and we'll hug him to let him know he did good.

[cowboylogic]

I agree...Smarty and his camp have all the class in the world...something not everyone is blessed with...

[Calico]

This irks me, so I just have to say something in light of the comments that Smarty has some sort of backwoods pedigree. Elusive Quality, Gone West, Mr. Prospector, Foolish Pleasure ... but it's mostly speed, not distance. And that has somehow gotten contorted in the press (gee) that he doesn't have a decent pedigree.

[Tackpud]

He tried so hard. What class and what class on the part of everyone associated with him to lose so graciously. Birdstone ran a great race, but no one should take away from what Smarty has accomplished so far. Undefeated through the Preakness is a major accomplishment. Congratulations to Smarty and his entourage.

[JulieMontgomery]

Well, well, well.... don't be so quick to claim a win!

At least Smarty Jones can spell "caliber". (That's why he's called Smarty http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif)

He is of Triple Crown caliber, and everyone I know loves him come hell or high water...

[2487lyf]

no, i don't care about the bloodlines in the slightest. they really don't make a difference to me. i don't really even pay any attention to horse racing except for about 2 months of the year. but from the first time i saw him on TV i didn't think he was as wonderful as everyone else did. i think the reason people loved him so much was because of his story and his owners... the small town and unknown trainer... the rags to riches tale. i mean, look how many horses all the big name trainers have had this happen to and not nearly as many people fall in love with them. i don't follow racing that closely, but i had a feeling that this was going to be the way it would turn out and no one believed me... so i had to bring it back up and prove my point. i win again. i really am not trying to be snobby, but i think about 5 people posted when i first made my statement saying i was wrong. i can't stand being wrong, so i had to prove i was right. i don't really want to make a big deal, i just had to prove myself.

juliemontgomery- yea... im not good at spelling... im not of spelling bee "calibur" http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Cherry]

Nattie, running all three races to the Triple Crown is grueling! Most of the horses that run in the Triple Crown races only race in two out of the three for this reason! Smarty ran in all three (and nearly won the third)!!!

The horse that beat him, Birdstone, has not raced since the Kentucky Derby so he was "fresher" than Smarty. Smarty wasn't outclassed, he just didn't have his characteristic third gear when he got to the homestretch. I'm not making excuses I'm simply stating a fact. The fact that Smarty competed in all three races and very nearly pulled off winning the Triple Crown shows me that he's got "it"!!! It takes a well trained horse that can hold its edge to accomplish what Smarty has! Hats off to Mr. Servis and Team Smarty!!! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

Incidentally, "blowing out someone else's candle does not make your candle burn brighter!". I hope some day you will understand what that means... http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Giddy-up]

I was bummed to see him lose. I was born in '78 so I would love to see a Triple Crown winner. I really thought he was going to pull it off. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_frown.gif

By the way--anybody catch the VISA commercial that shows Smarty running & the voice over saying "keeping up with the Jones' just got a little bit harder" (or something to that effect)?? I thought that was really cute! And the Budweiser donkey talking to the clydes?? OMG, that was funny!! http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif

[Baileybff]

I was very bummed that Smarty didn't get the crown...however, he STILL RAN GREAT!! We were jumping up and down screaming (as usual). I'm not one to keep up with bloodlines, etc,. However, I see so much damn heart in that horse! THAT is what makes a winner in my eyes.
Go Smarty, you are still a winner to me http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif!

Oh, I did 'bout shat a cat when they mentioned the $50mill price tag if he won it though http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_eek.gif

[Glimmerglass]

He's still a very good horse who did nothing wrong, but simply isn't designed for the 1 1/2 mile distance. I like him regardless of the outcome and not winning the Belmont has no shame.

[Snowbird]

A lot of horses would have been very proud to be second. Smarty just got blindsided he didn't hear this horse moving up behind him until it was too late. If he had he might have found that extra gear; if he'd had a few more seconds. Besides it didn't rain enough he liked a muddy track. There will be a ton of ifs and maybes forever now.

We can make excuses for him but there is no reason not to respect him and what he accomplished. The love he earned makes him special for all of us and I'm sure that Hollywood will be able to turn that 2nd place into an even better movie.

[sanctuary]

I give the whole Smarty time a huge thumbs up and heartfelt hug. They really did a super job.

Snowbird, I agree, Smarty thought he was free and clear and Birdstone appeared out of no-where.

I love Smarty to death, but I agree with Servis that he didn't really settle that much and was running too hard too soon, kicked in his last gear in the middle of the last turn and just didn't have time to find that extra gear.

God Bless the team though for what they have accomplished.

And Nattie, if you noticed, the horse YOU picked was 5th. He tuckered out waaaay before Smarty did.

Edited to add that his team was amazingly gracious and wonderful about their loss. And Birdstone's team was fabulous as well. Birdstone's owner almost seemed in tears that they won, not because they won, but because they were sad to have beat Smarty. Her first reaction was "We feel horrible!" Truly wonderful sportsmanship. These are lessons that truly need to be learned on this board, and in our industry as well; ie juding, trainer bashing, etc. It's just not worth it. You get so much more respect from your peers when you are graceful than when you badmouth.

GO SMARTY!!!

[SBT]

I was SO sad he lost...I had so much confidence in him! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_frown.gif He ran a good race and he was NOT "outclassed" by any means; he just hit his 2nd gear too soon. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/no.gif

BUT...I was absolutely FLOORED by the fabulous class, grace, and sportsmanship shown not only by Smarty's connections, but Birdstone's as well. The sleazy reporter was all in Nick Zito's face, pumping him for all kinds of comments, when Zito turned around. There was John Servis, congratulating him. I mean, he must have made a beeline for Zito, because the race had ended only about 60 seconds earlier.

And the first words out of Edgar Prado, Birdstone's jockey, were, "I'm very sorry...but I had to do my job." Complete and total class, I tell you. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif And on his way into the winner's circle, he was perfectly happy to carry what appeared to be a fan's handmade sign which read, "God bless our troops all over the world." Amen to that.

Smarty's loss seemed to leave EVERYONE heartbroken; he really was "the people's horse." Nothing will take that away. Win or lose, he has done great things for horse racing. Thanks to him, more "little guys" might dare to dream. And thanks to the grace of his connections and Birdstone's connections, the public might not be so quick to assume racing is a sport with no integrity.

Super congrats to ALL involved. The ending wasn't what we wanted, but the show was still great. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

[canyonoak]

I used to be a hotwalker at the track, eons ago, and was an exercise rider for a brief few moments in time..

Smarty ran a great race..his heart and his courage and his will and his legs all combine to make him a champion..

BUT..he can be a bit difficult to rate, as everyone already knows..

He lost by,what? one-tenth of a second difference..?

The other horse, Birdstone, he bided his time and when he made his move, he just kept accelerating..

Elliott had a few choices down that muddy, draining, churning stretch..and he did not make any wrong ones.

But if you only have a few seconds left, and you decide to try to change your horse's rate or rhythm..you as a jockey are taking a HUGE chance--and every jock in that race and elsewhere knows that.

So there was a teeny teeny miscalculation, and it was..just enough for Birdstone to come rolling by.

Round of applause to Nick Zito for having two of the top 3 today in The Belmont! for heaven's sake.

But the true champion of today was and is Smarty...as everyone else acknowledged.

Pedigree gets you so far...but as everyone knows, successful horses have brothers and sisters everywhere..and they are not the same.

YAYYYY Smarty, for making racing fun again, and giving us all a shot of major excitement..

[Linus]

What a hearbreak! I was really pulling for him. I have to agree with Nattie, though, that the horse never really appealed to me the way some have in the past. I can't put my finger on it; he just doesn't have that certain presence that screams winner.

And I don't think there's anything classless about saying your prediction was correct...especially when you were trashed for saying it, beforehand.

I was wondering something. A commentator mentioned that earlier Triple Crown winners didn't have sizeable fields to contend with in the Belmont--and the greater number of competitors has made it more difficult for horses to win the Crown today.

Is the Triple Crown challenge today comparable to the one twenty, thirty years ago? Could a Secretariat or an Affirmed still win the Triple Crown, if facing the field today?

[Nickelodian]

Nattie, how do you know what a triple crown winner should look like? Or why do you think you do? Winning the Triple crown isn't about looks, or bloodlines, or anything else but heart. A horse truly has to want it to win. I think that Smarty wanted it, but was pushed too hard to keep in front by a bunch of tryers who wanted him to tire. And he did. Sad that he's not a TC winner, but at the same time just b/c he's 15.3 and a plain chestnutt, doesn't mean he couldn't have done it.

I've got a Seattle Slew grandson, who is 17hh, enormous body, presence, and mind. He looked the part of a TC winner all the way. His owners turned down a whole ton of money at keenland b/c he was their next big one. (They had valhalla.) 4 years and millions of dollars poured into him, he was sold to me for literally nothing. He's a fantastic Hunter, but was never going to make a race horse, he doesn't have the heart for it.

You can look the part all day long, but unless you've got the guts, you've got nothing.

[Madeline]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Nattie:
Well, well, well... I win! Smarty isn't a Triple Crown winner after all! I feel really sorry for the family though... what an amazing story that would have been.

I wish Rock Hard Ten would have won... then I would have really been right, but I was right that Smarty was not of Triple Crown calibur. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Some people showed class over Birdstone's win ( see Chapman's , Servis, Elliot, Prado, Whitney and even Nick Zito.

Some didn't.

[Ata]

Who do you think did not show any class about it? To me, it seemed like The Smarty Jones camp was upset, but understandibly. Of course I was too, There hasn't been a Triple Crown winner since I was born.

[Ata]

Hey Nattie, does that make you feel good that you 'won' on this board? That is rude what you said.

[Madeline]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Ata:
Who do you think did not show any class about it? To me, it seemed like The Smarty Jones camp was upset, but understandibly. Of course I was too, There hasn't been a Triple Crown winner since I was born. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Just Nattie.

[Silver Bells]

Smarty Jones was truly the best horse! He deserved to win, but we can only imagine how grueling those three races can be on a horse, in such a short time frame.
I applaud the Chapmans. They are wonderful people, and showed true sportsmanship and class.

NATTIE, Your "my dog is bigger than your dog" mentality is for kindergarten class. Why don't you take your toys an go home!

[SillyFilly]

I was very, very impressed by what I saw yesterday. I loved that the connections of Smarty were not making any lame excuses - "the best horse just won today" - and by the true classiness of the Zito band. Birdstone ran a great race, I'm sorry there wasn't a triple crown, but there are PLENTY of races for him to kickarse in now. BC! 8-7-1-0-0 isn't too bad of a record at all. We all still love him anyhow!

[HolySmoke]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR> And the Budweiser donkey talking to the clydes?? OMG, that was funny!! http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

now THAT was HILLARIOUS!!(sp?) funniest thing ever!
Smarty did awesome!!! dont anyone feel sorry for him!! he did amazing!!! http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

[Ata]

Madeline, I figured that out right after I posted. Just woke up! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[J. Turner]

He is still a top class horse. No one was near he and Birdstone. He ran extraordinarily in all of his other races. He is nothing to sneeze at. Birdstone was striding out at the end. Smarty was one length too tired. But on equal ground (someone mentioned that all horses do not have to run the same schedule), how would've Birdstone and he done? What if RHT, Eddington, Birdstone, and Smarty had all run all three races - then we could make a qualified decision. Right now, Birdstone is a very nice horse (love his open shoulder stridge) who was better than day. As many said (including Stewart Elliott, I think), that's why the run the race. Did any other horse run the whole TC? It just doesn't seem fair.

[Drakaina16]

I too was disappointed Smarty didn't win. What a class act, though.. And you have to remember, he was undeafeated until then.

Danya

[2487lyf]

But here's the thing. Why doesn't anyone care about the other 7 horses that this has happened to in the last 15 years?? Smarty Jones is just going to become one of them by next year...

A triple crown winner has to WIN all three races... great horses can do that... they have.

[Heather]

Nattie, you seem young to me, byt the way post. If so, then one day you may have the wisdom to learn the meaning of the phrase, "It is better to be kind, than to be right."

As far as the other seven horses. Well, I actually think some of them were great. Silver Charm went on to having a continuing top racing career, and seems to be proving to be a very good sire. He got outjockeyed in the Belmont, and the jockey that beat him basicaly said if he hadn't been "sneaky' there is no way his horse could have beaten SC. Charismatic was going to win the triplle crown, and his foreleg shattered. Can't say that was a lack of talent, ability, or greatness. Just a weak limb. War Emblem fell down in the gate--bad racing luck. Not the same as lack of talent or greatness.

I also think sometimes greatness can be measured in the veil ofhistory. Affirmed was a great race horse, but with the passage of time, it is Alydar who has left the greater mark on racing and Thorughbreds.

I have to say, since Smarty didn't win, I'm of the pessimistic view thatit may never happen again. I hope I'm wrong, but I fear we've bred the stamina and mile and a half out of the US TB. I thought if ever a horse had all the parts. It was Smarty. If he can't do it, I'm not sure it can be done any longer. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_frown.gif http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/sadsmile.gif

[Texan By The Grace Of God]

Now this is what i want to know..WILL THERE BE A MOVIE?! Smarty Jones for president! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[nelson]

I love Smarty and I actually cried when he didn't win! http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/cry.gif But, I still thought he ran a great race.

We should all be thanking the Chapman family, the Servis family and all of Smarty's other connections for such a great ride! It was so much fun cheering for a hometown hero! I, for one, plan to be there to see him run in the Pennsylvania Derby, if they decide to run him there. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Hats off to Birdstone and his trainer and owners too! They all conducted themselves with perfect class in victory!

[jumper11]

I think Smarty is an awesome horse, and tried his heart out. Its an incredible boost to the TB mentality and heart. They are amazing creatures. I don't think TB racing "needs" a TC winner, it would be great, I cried a little too when he didn't win. But look how many fans racing has at is, although everyone wants a TC winner, it seems people are content to just love a winner. If only show jumping had such a fan base....

[ccoronios]

J Turner,
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>What if RHT, Eddington, Birdstone, and Smarty had all run all three races - then we could make a qualified decision. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I've often wondered about this. Kinda seems that the horses should HAVE to run them all, doesn't it. Or, more correctly, nobody new can jump in after the Derby. Obviously, for various reasons, dropouts should be allowed.

[mommy peanut]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>J Turner,

quote:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What if RHT, Eddington, Birdstone, and Smarty had all run all three races - then we could make a qualified decision.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------



I've often wondered about this. Kinda seems that the horses should HAVE to run them all, doesn't it. Or, more correctly, nobody new can jump in after the Derby. Obviously, for various reasons, dropouts should be allowed.

<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
I also think that the TC races should be restricted to horses who have only run in the previous TC race(run the KD to get in the Preak, run them both to get in the Belmont). I don't think this would in any way "dumb down" the TC races or even make it easier to get a TC winner. What it would do is show who the top 3y/o horse is/are w/o any questions.
I think the racing world needs more people and horses like those in the Smarty party!! He is an AWESOME horse!! I can't wait to see what he does next.

[caffeinated]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Nattie:
But here's the thing. Why doesn't anyone care about the other 7 horses that this has happened to in the last 15 years?? Smarty Jones is just going to become one of them by next year...
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I don't think he will.

To the vast non-horsey public... it's possible, but he's rekindled my interest, for sure. IN past years, I remember thinking "oh well, no TC" and then ignoring racing completely till the next Kentucky Derby.

Something about this little horse sparked something, not just for me but for a lot of people, it seems, and I think he'll be remembered favorably.

http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Judi]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Linus:


I was wondering something. A commentator mentioned that earlier Triple Crown winners didn't have sizeable fields to contend with in the Belmont--and the greater number of competitors has made it more difficult for horses to win the Crown today.

Is the Triple Crown challenge today comparable to the one twenty, thirty years ago? Could a Secretariat or an Affirmed still win the Triple Crown, if facing the field today? <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Hey Linus. I would agree that the size of the fields... and therefor the greater amount of fresh horses that could possibly create an upset does narrow the opportunity for a horse to win the triple crown...

BUT

I had the delight of catching a Triple Crown special on ESPN Classic this Saturday and they played all 3 races of Secretariat winning the Triple Crown. He won the Belmont by 31 lengths... after running those previous 2 legs of the Crown... and he looked as if he could have continued pulling away when he past the finish line. Although he obviously outclassed the other 5 horses in the field... I think that peformace could have blown away any of the past Belmonts I've seen.

I saw a special on him once and they say that his heart was almost twice the size of other horses and the size of his stride was also greater than any other horse. These elements combined in one animal to make a super champion. Interestingly enough.. he never was a great sire though... Still... quite the machine that horse was. I couldn't breath as I watched those Triple Crown races again they were that spectacular.

[Snowbird]

I think that the issue of Smarty Jones during and election year proves something very important. Just reading the other threads even we as horse people have been suffering from a malaise and a cynicism that the little guy doesn't count. Us "little people" don't matter and we just hold a grudge.

Smarty proved that we do believe in dreams and someone with charisma who speaks to our heart can still get us over this overwhelming sense of total corruption and hopelessness.

I hope that you have all seen the Bylaws of the NHJA and realized that there is a hope for this discipline with a true democratic association that cares about us.

I have been reading thread after thread of despondent and abused horsemen who are desperate because the right training and honesty doesn't seem to be ahead. I love Smarty because he gave me the hope that it is possible for the worm to turn. He came so close and he tried so hard even though he was running from behind in every race.

I think he thought like we all did he had it won and he just relaxed long enough for Birdstone to sneak up on him from the outside.

It just shows that you can't ever take anything for granted. He just didn't have enough time to kick in that extra emergency gear. I won't concede he got beat by a better horse just a very smart ride.

[barngirl]

As for the qeustion as to whether past triple crown winners could still do it...at least for Sectretariat I say yes... correct me if I am wrong, but no onw has beaten his track record for the BelmontStakes. Though I do believe his great grandson, Real Quiet came with in a 10th of a second.
I was disappointed in Smarty's loss...not half as much as recording the wrong channel and missing the race. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_frown.gif BUt I did get to see the final turn and stretch on Espn. It seemed to me that Smarty wasn't tired, I think he thought he was done. I almost think that he made his move to soon. Consider that in all his other races he came from behind... some horses like to do this, and then he pulls away in the final stretch... But he is usually all alone in front by several lengths at this point. I thought it was interesting that once Birdstone pulled along side of him he started to ease up... To me it looked like he thought he was done, not that he was tired. Consider the fact that in his previous races he pulls in front leads and then wins... the next horse that pulls long side him is after the finish line. I think with the way Belmont is set up.. huge sweeping truns, and no way for a horse to really tell where he is in a race, that Smarty was just doing what he had done in every other race... pulled in front... held a comfy lead and been passed after winning... I think by the time Smarty realized what was happening, he was crossing the wire and unable to fight back
Maybe I am reading way too much into what I saw, but he just seemed to change his stride to an easy gallop, and not tire out. I just think there is a different stride in a tired horse... they still seem to have that long flat gallop, it is just a frantic look to it, like they really arn't in control, Smarty looked different, like he was pulling up and ready to canter back tothe winner circle.
Or maybe I am just crazy... http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_confused.gif