“Rapid Redux” won 19 races in 19 starts in 2011. Nobody’s ever done that. And, he tied the legendary “Citation”, which got 19 wins in 20 starts in one season half a century ago.
And, Rapid Redux has a North American modern day record 21 straight wins dating back to last year. So why not vote him horse of the year?
Here’s why. Many voters will discount Rapid Redux’ achievements this year, saying he did it in a low level of racing. He’s raced against claimers and starter allowance competition, among the lowest levels in the sport.
But what is the definition of Horse of the Year? Shouldn’t it be for the best performances of the season regardless of the competition, whether it’s mules or “Secretariat?” And if you make history in the process, so much the better.
2011 was not exactly filled with a superstars or remarkable performances. We’ve been spoiled recently with “Zenyatta”, “Rachel Alexandra” and “Curlin.” Those horses were the best against the best in the top rungs of the sport connected to some of the sport’s wealthiest people.
A vote for Rapid Redux is a vote for the blue collar guys in the sport, that they matter too. He was the best against the best at his level representing the 2 dollar connections in the game.
Rapid Redux is a throw-back. From a time in the sport where horses raced seemingly every week.
Now we’re lucky to see them race a half dozen times in their careers. Inbreeding and drugs have made thoroughbreds more fragile. So we may not see another like him, ever.
Reason enough to make Rapid Redux the 2011 Eclipse Award Winner for Horse of the Year. I know it won’t happen. But i wish it would. This horse deserves to be more than a footnote in a history book.
ps…for that matter, David Wells should win trainer of the year. And Robert Cole should win owner of the year. They are Rapid Redux’ connections.
