Unlucky Camelot and Nijinsky’s Triple Crown record
Much to the dismay of his fans, the punters, who staked their money on him, and A. P. O'Brien; Camelot narrowly missed the grand and golden opportunity to break Nijinsky’s Triple Crown record on September 15 when he finished second in the Ladbrokes St Leger
Stakes at Doncaster racecourse.
It was a great disappointment, both for the bay colt and his trainer. Camelot’s unlucky failure strengthened the perception that Nijinsky was really unbeatable even after 42 years of British Triple Crown glory.
Camelot, who had won five high-profile races in a row including the two initial Triple Crown 2012 events, was beaten by Encke with the narrow margin of ¾ length. Perhaps, it was the height of bad luck.
Being the 2-5 hot favourite candidate, Camelot ran under the trainer’s son, J. P. O'Brien, and fought very well against Encke till the last moment, but Nijinsky’s record was destined to remain intact and so it happened.
Nijinsky was the last of the 15 horses who have won all the three races of the mega event that is held every year. The Vincent O'Brien trained bay horse accomplished the glory in 1970 while running under Lester Piggott.
Overall, the late legend had a number of marvellous feats to his name. He registered impressive victories in the high-stakes events like Railway Stakes, Anglesey Stakes, Beresford Stakes, Dewhurst Stakes, Gladness Stakes and Irish Derby.
After Camelot’s failure, many sport followers of this time have started believing that no runner will be able to make Triple Crown history till they doom. Perhaps, some daredevil will do it in the next century.
Camelot lost his confidence and momentum notably after that defeat. It was evident from his Longchamp tour where he finished 7th despite being the 2-1 favourite.
This is greatly disappointing to his trainer who considered him to be an invincible runner a couple of months back.
Perhaps, Camelot will never be able to get such an amazing opportunity as he had this year. Perhaps, his Triple Crown dream has razed to ground forever. But, it is hoped that the young and energetic colt will earn some other glories in the years to come.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are the writer's own and do not reflect Bettor.Com’s editorial policy.
Tags: