Tom Noonan

Yesterday's Derby win by 50-1 shot Mine That Bird featured one of the most electrifying moves I have ever seen in a horse race.  He went by the front runners as though they were mired in mud, drawing off to the biggest margin of victory since Assault on his way to the Triple Crown in 1946.

The win left thousands of fans going back to the Daily Racing Form's PPs looking for what they missed.  There wer probably a dozen of other entrants who, had they won, would have fans saying "How did I miss that?"  Not with this guy, however.  He was the Canadian two-year old champion, winning the Grey Cup.  But two unsuccessful starts at Sunland Park in New Mexico?  And, a top Beyer of 81?

The pre-race talk had to do with what an excellent crop of three-year olds in this year's field.  After the defections of Quality Road and I Want Revenge, however, I do not buy it.  This group is beginning to look quite mediocre.