Had Giacomo not run in the 2005 Kentucky Derby, Do you think Afleet Alex could have won the TC?

Question

I get bored on ocassion and like to putt out my past Derby atpes and watch them, so a few days ago I watched the 2005 TC races and got to thinking, wonder if Afleet aLex could have won the TC had Giacomo not run in the Derby? I think he probably could have b/c he did really well in the Derby and man the Preakness where he got knocked to his knees, got up to blow past everyone and win... That's heart my friends and heart is a big part of being a TC champ so what is your opinion? Could he have been our first Triple Crown Champion since Affirmed in 1978????

Answer 1

I really think he could've too. Not only did he deserve it but he also had the heart and determination every time he went out there. He came REALLY close in the Derby with a 50-1 and 70-1 shot in front of him. I honestly think that Giacomo got a little lucky, you know. If he didn't get clear he definetly wouldn't have won. Afleet Alex was an excellent horse and deserves the best at stud. Have you seen his foals? THEY ARE BEAUTIFUL LOOKING!!!

Answer 2

no....it was not meant to be.....

Answer 3

I dunno about winning the '05 Derby, but MAN did he impress me with that run you mentioned in the Preakness. I have to admit I was PO'd that Giacomo didn't show up for that race much cause I made a mint on him in the Derby in the future pools...LOL!

Then when he turned around and won at Belmont I secretly told myself that yes, I believed he should have won the TC. I had high hopes that he would be able to return to racing, but as we all know that didn't come to be.I am trying to keep an eye out for some of his progeny to start showing up, either on the track or in the sales. Heard of any? It will be interesting to see if he can pass along his quick turn of foot!

addition: whoa! GOOD lookin' babies! that Birdstone baby was a beauty too...

  AWWWW...  I admit it, I'm a sucker for those babies...LOL! Tapit's looked good too. Thanks for the link!

Answer 4

well, Closing Argument still finished ahead of Afleet Alex. Alex was indeed a very good horse, but Jeremy Rose gave him quite possibly the worst ride imaginable in the Derby. Different jockey... quite possibly could have been a very different result.

Answer 5

AH... Afleet Alex....  If I had a TB mare I would breed to him in a heartbeat.  You are right about the heart.  Not only talented but tuff as nails.  Ruffian is my favorite girl but Afleet Alex is by far my favorite boy (besides my guy of course,lol)  

Even if Giacomo wasn't there he was still contending with Closing Argument who was second.  Close race though!  I do believe he could have been our triple crown winner though and if they could go back, I'm sure there was something they would have changed.  He ran his heart out though, just like everytime he raced but that day just wasn't his day.