I must confess..I don’t watch racing like I used to.
But I really don’t know how many of the TC winners kept racing. Why would they?
Chance of getting hurt...chance of losing and tarnishing their cred. Same thing with the “almosts”.
The owners got their stud fees after the Preakness. Smart move as far as I’m concerned. Lots and lots of $$$ to be made there. Especially after this length of time.
Big beautiful horse.
Wimping out is a young trend. Only in my lifetime - which includes the “super ‘70s”. They were not as tough as earlier schedules, as a rule.
Sir Barton - ran all the way through 4, top older horse.
Gallant Fox - ran through 3
Omaha - ran through 4, last season in England inc. Queen’s Plate and just missing Ascot Gold Cup
War Admiral - ran all the way through 4 into 5, top older horse
Whirlaway - ran 20 as 3yo and 22 as 4yo, continued onto 5, top elder
Count Fleet - retired after TC due to injury
Assault - top older horse through 4, raced to 7
Citation - ran 20 races at 3yo, laid off for serious injury, returned to race at 5 and 6, top older horse
Secretatiat - ran through 3 (syndicate for stud forced it)
Seattle Slew - ran through 4, top elder
Affirmed - ran through 4, top elder