Why the 20-horse field?

Since 1984, the Derby field has been ‘limited’ to 20 horses; prior to that, fields tended to be smaller by default (see the entries for Secretariat’s Derby, right). Granted, even with the possibility of having a full field, it doesn’t often happen (although it’s usually close). Even so, it’s simply too crowded and it becomes that much harder for ‘the best horse’ to win (note last year — Giacomo?); under these circumstances, it’s easy for chance to best talent.

So, how did we get here? One factor is sheer numbers; there are simply more thoroughbreds born every year than in the past, a trend kept afloat by high stud fees among the most elite segment of breeders and the lure of potentially huge returns at auction. A good finish in the Derby (not necessarily a win) adds to a horse’s value at stud (unless, of course, a gelding wins — keep your eyes on Sweetnorthernsaint; no fillies this year) and perpetuates that cycle.

There’s also an element now of ‘why not take a shot?’ if your horse has the earnings to get in — after all, it’s horse racing and anyone can win on the day, right? Even under these conditions, horses with a more legitimate shot are often excluded from the race while others who have little business running with top-class horses take up space and often end up somewhere near the back — often after they’ve managed to impede a true contender. The argument that a truly great horse can overcome any obstacle is often suggested; I would argue that setting up an artificial one that they have never faced before nor will again isn’t much of a test.


Tags:
Horse Racing