Letters to the Editor March 3

Three trainers snubbed by Hall deserve honors

Well, here we go again! The finalists for the Hall of Fame's class of 2013 came out ("Borel, Antley among finalists for Hall of Fame," March 1) and there is one trainer on the list. Only one problem, though. The trainer's name isn't John Campo, Billy Turner, or Jose Martin.

I would like someone, somewhere, to explain to me not only why they weren't on the ballot, but why they are not already in the Hall of Fame. Not taking anything away from this year's nominee, but there is no valid reason anyone can give me as to why one of the others are not there either with him or instead of him.

Just look at the records of these worthy candidates.

Campo: The Kentucky Derby and Preakness. Champion 2-year-old colt and filly in the same year, plus multiple stakes wins lifelong.

Turner: Triple Crown winner Seattle Slew and multiple stakes wins.

Martin: Three champions that I know of, plus many other stakes wins.

What is the protocol here, about getting into the Hall of Fame? Sadly, two of these deserving men, Campo and Martin, have passed away. Turner, though, is still active.
Whoever makes these decisions, please look at the stats, or is this just another popularity contest? The Hall of Fame nominators should be ashamed of themselves.

Tony Stabile - Akron, Ohio

Fair Grounds music hits a low note

All of the nation's classiest racetracks have a bugler who summons the horses onto the track for each race. But you can drop the Fair Grounds in New Orleans from that group. After an historic 140 racing seasons, the track now plays a recorded "Call to the Post" as the Thoroughbreds leave the paddock.

Gee, it must be difficult to find a horn player in the cradle of jazz and hometown of Louis ­Armstrong.

Charlie Chapple - Hammond, La.