I have SportCenter on as I was checking the board. They ran that report before they said a word about Big Brown. I don't mean to imply that was improper, it is just a shame that Big Brown's Derby will be overshadowed by Eight Belles breaking down. I view horse racing as a "sport" first. The gambling aspect is very important, but I follow the Graded Stakes races closely, and it adds another dimension to racing when you really come to know and appreciate these horses for the competitors they are. The sport desperately needs to attract fans. My 10 year old daughter had $2 across the board on Eight Belles. She told me not to cash the ticket. What happened Saturday hurt the sport more than it helped. I still hope Big Brown can take the Triple Crown and put the sport back in a good light.

I don't know enough to make an informed judgement, but I have heard some discussion among people who should know that Eight Belles head turn and veer to the inside during the stretch run is an indicator of injury. The trainer said she had done that previously and didn't think it meant anything. The coincidence is alarming. Her stride continued to look great afterwards. Who knows. One thing is for sure...a horse fracturing both ankles while galloping out? Huh? Hard to believe.