Question:
Alinghi wins first-up over 1700m in America. Similarly, in Europe this is not an unusual occurrence to see horses embarking on such campaigns.
In Australia, we would be horrified to see such demands put on our elite performers so early in their campaigns.
I know that particularly in Europe the soft tracks certainly assist in the longevity of a horse's racing career compared to our relatively flint hard surfaces here.
Also, I notice that particularly in England it is not unusual for horses to be allowed to amble over undulating hills at a steady pace to get fit for a first up tilt over a distance in excess of 1600m.
This leads me to ask: "do we pamper our horses too much here in Australia?"
Any views on this matter?

Cheers.