By Staff
There was a time when the "Sport of Kings" was must-see television.
But those days have come and gone.
The build-up to the May 7 Kentucky Derby didn't seem to have the same drama as in previous years.
Horse racing in general does not draw the audience it once did.
Perhaps that is because the common man just doesn't get into watching affluent people race horses.
There doesn't seem to be the personalities in racing that there used to be.
Another possibility is that there hasn't been a Triple Crown winner in nearly three decades.
Over the past few years we have been treated to the possibility of a horse claiming the crown, but in each instance, they failed in the third and final leg.
Perhaps the thought of 50-1 long shot Giacomo winning the Kentucky Derby will spur many to watch the Preakness.
There was some drama in the Derby when you consider that New York Yankees owner George Steinbrenner had a horse in the race.
Anytime Steinbrenner is involved in anything there is drama.
There are many who watched the race just to see his horse lose, which it did.
Horse racing needs to find a way to once again connect with the common man.
For years the first Saturday in May was as important as the last Sunday in the month, when the Indianapolis 500 runs.
There are horses that can be bought into by everyone.
Just like a stock, people can purchase a share of a horse.
This may be a way to attract more fans.
There really is nothing as beautiful as a horse race.
Horses are magnificent creatures and when they come streaking down the home stretch one's blood can't help but race.
The photo finish leaves one breathless.
But unless we find a way to connect with these events, there is no telling how long horse racing will be a key player in the sports world.