It was raining on Oaks day so I assume the inside lane was bad (maybe soft or heavy) while the outside was closer to good.  Note they had the temp rail out maybe 15 feet but that wasn't enough.  Go figure for the Derby the temp rail was down and the field stayed inside, so it must have dried enough in the sun (plus the inside 15 feet wasn't as riddled with divots). 

That homestretch is more than half a mile long so the ground loss would be negligible (and worth it for the superior footing).

If you haven't seen this little clip, I think you'll enjoy it.  Adam Kirby showing humility, respect & intelligence after his winning ride in The Derby.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aq1KZ0V6xKo

Thanks SSG..

Watched the replay again.

This is pretty cool:

https://youtu.be/9RJciccAbFU

Much appreciated.  

Love the Kirby clip.  Nice guy, knows what's important to him. 

Class

O’Brien’s comments on Bolshoi Ballet were good

”Bolshoi Ballet raced lifeless.I wouldn’t want to make any excuses as I don’t want to take away from the other horses”

Hurricane Lane lost both front shoes during the race

I was listening to Appleby in a post-race interview this morning & he thought all 3 Godolphins were ready to run competitively, favoring Hurricane but not surprised that when the big colt on the inside got rolling he wasn't going to stop.  Gave all credit to Kirby & also pointed out that Adam "broke in" all 3 for the outfit.  Very enjoyable Derby this year, IMO.