[Indian Charlie]

Originally Posted by ateamstupid

I don't think he tried for the lead, but nobody else went, so what is he going to do? Rein the horse in and risk traffic trouble while letting some horse with less speed than him go by? He knew the other riders were going to try to beat him at all costs, so I think he was hesitant to get covered up if he didn't have to. Plus, like you said, the fractions weren't very quick. On the lead or off of it, he was going to lose today.

Watching the replay, I think his stride looked a little weird going around the turn, like he was reaching out and trying hard to keep up even though Velazquez hadn't asked him yet.

Agreed. If anything, I think you are understating things.