Global Weekly Review: Hints of subtle changes to racing tradition

It is well-established that the first weekend in May is usually one that provides at least 50 per cent of the answers demanded by those studying the Classic generation on either side of the Atlantic.

At Newmarket, the classiest three-year-old establishes or consolidates a reputation in the G1 2,000 Guineas that takes a long time to erode, while at Churchill Downs, there is a coronation of the G1 Kentucky Derby winner that leads to inevitable speculation the new 'king' can earn enhanced status as a Triple Crown hero.

The format has been pretty well set in stone for years. But I wonder whether certain subtle changes are now becoming noticeable.

In Britain for instance, the size of this year's 2,000 Guineas field was very small - only 10 - the smallest in this most important Classic in 29 years. 

What difference did it make? Almost certainly, a great deal of difference, as a slow early pace was allowed to develop and left its mark on the race, although it must be said that Churchill, last year's top juvenile, was a worthy winner.

It is doubtful there would have been anything but a fast clip if 18 or so had lined up.

Godolphin's Barney Roy finished a courageous second after almost falling two furlongs out.  That he was able to finish only a length behind the winner speaks volumes for his gameness. A rematch with Churchill in the G1 St James's Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot, which is uphill all the way from the 'Old Mile' start in Swinley Bottom, will be worth waiting for.

Meanwhile, in Louisville, to the chorus of 'My Ole Kentucky Home,' Always Dreaming defied convention by landing the 'Run For The Roses' for Todd Pletcher and John Velazquez. On a sloppy track, the winner looked a cut above his rivals, as, too, did his jockey.

Defying convention? Well, we are constantly reminded that the road to Churchill Downs must start with wins during a two-year-old campaign, yet Always Dreaming did not notch his maiden victory until January at three. The Preakness should be his, too. The Belmont will be his test.

In the back of our minds, surely, must be the fact that the highest-rated horse in the world, Arrogate, did not register a win until his second start, in early June last year, and he missed all three Classics. 

That's what I mean about subtle changes. Could there be another of the Classic generation capable of making an Arrogate-like late entrance? Another would turn the game on its head.

Finally, Hong Kong, usually a source of inspiration in racing, was in sombre mood at the weekend when Rapper Dragon, the local Derby winner, broke down with a fractured pelvis in the G1 Champions Mile and was unable to be saved. 

He had won 8 of his 13 starts since being imported from Australia.