A friend writes...

It is Derby Day, and even if you only have last year's muddler and a derby glass from college, you should fix yourself a julep and enjoy the race. In an ongoing effort to expand the offerings here beyond recondite cooking tips, criticism of the Times, and mp3s you don't need, we offer a preview of the action from Churchill Downs from new Codrespondent Saratoga Slim, who created his own handicapping minor at Skidmore back in the late 80s.

The breakdown:
My gut says Bandini. My heart says Afleet Alex (I'll wear my Smarty Jones shirt in support). I'll be pretty surprised if anyone else wins. But my handicapping skills don't completely discount High Fly, esp w/Jerry Bailey up. Wilko if you're looking to bet a longshot to be in the money.

George Steinbrenner and his Bellamy Road can kiss my Sox-lovin' ass.  I'll be impressed as hell if he wins (big) -- and he could. But until he shows me he's got the cojones and heart of Secretariat, don't believe the hype. He's never won anything past 6f from off the lead. And no one's gonna steal this thing wire to wire (though High Limit might try) -- Spanish Chestnut will come out too fast for that, and his only goal is to pace stablemate Bandini early on.

Positioning should be interesting out of the gate. Lotta speed and horses that can rate bunched in the middle of the track. Gonna be some jostling as they look to save ground, turning left.

I'd be pretty shocked if it isn't won with a move as "DOWN the stretch they come!" And that points to a horse with late mojo (see Afleet Alex; Bandini)

Remember,  the best way to double your  money is to fold it in half and put it back in your wallet. Enjoy the race. 

Comments

[Uncle Grambo]

Would've LOVED to have read The Cod's recipe for a julep. Next year?

Personally, I'm partial to tossing back a Foghorn or five during the Derby. Bovs.