After last year's Breeder's Cup Classic, Curlin's owner, Jess Jackson was faced with a difficult decision. Would he retire his superhorse, or race him one more year? Curlin had won or placed in all of his races; third in the Kentucky Derby, won the Preakness, was second by a scant nose in the Belmont and then dominated a steller field in the Breeder's Cup Classic.
Should Curlin be retired? He was only three years old. Horses don't mature until they are five. He was unraced as a two year old and was only just beginning to show what kind of talent he had.
I personally wanted to see Curlin race as a four year old. He still had a lot left to give to the racing industry. Why quit when he was at the top of his game? Of course there was the risk of illness or injury, but those things can happen anywhere, at any time. I am sure that Curlin was thoroughly examined by his veterinarian on a regular basis. If there had been any doubt about soundness issues, he certainly would not have been sent back out on the track.
Racing was in desperate need of a hero in light of the bad publicity when George Washington broke down on Breeder's Cup day followed by the horrific tragedy suffered by Eight Belles in this years' Kentucky Derby. Curlin was that hero, a phenomenon who materialized out of nowhere. Jess Jackson stated that he continued to race Curlin for the people, for the fans who needed a hero.
I applauded that decision. I am a Curlin fan and wanted to see what else he would be able to accomplish. He went on to conquer the world in the Dubai Cup. Earlier this year he became the industry's all-time leading money earner. His bankroll is well over $10 million. If I had a horse like Curlin, I would have also tried for a second Breeder's Cup victory.
It would not have been for the money or prestige. It would have been because I had a talented horse who seemed to thoroughly enjoy running and was extremely good at his game.
Breakdowns are something that no one wants to think about, especially an owner or trainer, but it does happen. If Curlin had not been 110% sound and ready, he would not have started. Injuries are something that have to be dealt with as they occur.
Although Curlin tasted defeat in this years Breeders Cup Classic, he came home sound and that's all that really matters. He did everything a horse could do and was a hero for our sport. The fact is, no matter how good a horse is, they can all be beat. Perhaps Curlin found the surface not to his liking. He made a big move in the final turn but came up short.
Horses are just like people. They have good days and bad days. Breeder's Cup day was just an off day for Curlin, but I don't believe that takes anything away from his credibility. In my eyes he is, and always will be, a winner and a champion.
A fallen hero? I don't think so.