Quote:
Originally Posted by metro
They have two 7F races that are, the Santa Ynez (SA) and the Forward Gal (GP).
They have three one turn mile races that are as well, the Pocahantas (CD), Busher (AQ) and Davona Dale (GP).
The GrII Beaumont is run at the Beard Course distance of 7F 184 feet, the furthest Keeneland can run a one turn race. Why wouldn't it be a points race?
Could be a last chance type race for horses that got a late start on their 3 yr. old season and have points toward the Oaks, but aren't ready for a two turn Grade I at this point in their schedule.
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CDI wants that race to produce horses for the Eight Belles on the Oaks undercard, not for the Oaks itself.
Historically, it was used as an Oaks prep but also was run early in the Keeneland before the Ashland at the tail end (Go For Wand won both before winning the Oaks).
Another reason why the points system is a failure. Let CDI directly dictate your horse's campaign why don't you.
On a big picture scale, it's also an example of the negative trend to stratify young horses early on in their careers as sprinters or routers. Fooled Brad Cox into never stretching out Matareya around 2-turns after her 2nd start, even though she was bred to go 10 furlongs.
