Dang. Mandella also had Omaha Beach (who also had an epiglottis issue). 
Relieved its not something worse the way FK went in that race. Re the BB thing, would you want all the horses in his care banned from racing anywhere? He deserves everything he got, and more, and do question those “loyal” owners but the horses deserve a chance to make their mark at the track.
Anyway, liked both Mo Donegal and Zandon’s races. They fought for it, looked like they wanted it and both came from off the pace taking kickback and dealing with traffic, skills they will need next month. Actually had picked Taiba with MS and favorable odds but not on him as a strong Derby pick, he has a ways to go IMO.
Disappointed in SmileHappy, he was obviously tired when overtaken but even tired horses will offer some sign they don’t like being passed and try to rally even a little before giving up. Hope he is OK.
Last race for Derby points
Apr 16 Lexington S.
Kentucky Derby Champion Series
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$200k g
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1 1/16 miles Dirt
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1:45.24
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1: Tawny Port (+20)
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2: Major General (+8)
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3: In Due Time (+4)
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4: Ethereal Road (+2)
Current point standings
https://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/triple-crown/road-to-the-kentucky-derby/2022
Current point standings for the Kentucky Oaks
https://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/triple-crown/road-to-the-kentucky-oaks/2022
Now we’ll have to wait & see how many drop out (for both the Oaks & the Derby) before race day.
SLOW DOWN ANDY is already out…
I like Mandella for the Breeders Cup races and he should stick with those.
Too many “dreams of KY Derby” in the Derby, Mandella is no dreamer, just an excellent horseman, and I think the kind of patient training he gives is not well-appreciated in a race like the KY Derby, which always seems like a very hurried campaign season to me.
