Noted: March 22
– In today’s Derby Watch: Corinthian is off the Derby Trail; weekend Beyer numbers are out.
– Speed genes found? “A British scientist yesterday claimed to have made a ‘historic breakthrough‘ in the study of thoroughbred genetics, after a six-year research project produced the first proof of a relationship between specific genes and the individual performances of racehorses.”
– Kentucky congressman Ed Whitfield, who led hearings into the the jockeys’ insurance issue last fall, said that legislation amending the Interstate Horseracing Act to provide workers’ compensation to jockeys and backstretch workers could be ready in four weeks.
– Rockport Harbor’s injury-plagued racing career is over. Owner Rick Porter announced on Monday that Rockport was done racing and headed to a career at stud because of the foot injury that’s dogged the colt since the 2004 Remsen: “The wall of the hoof is cracked and the consensus is that he would need a minimum of 90 days turnout … There are no guarantees that the foot will heal 100%. Therefore, I have decided to retire him.”
– Steve Haskin joins Paul Daley in wondering why Mom’s Command isn’t on the Hall of Fame ballot this year. “Mom’s Command has slipped through the cracks again. After having her name on the Hall of Fame ballot in 2005, the 1985 New York filly Triple Crown winner was conspicuous by her absence this year.”
