If the Virginia governor's race were the Kentucky Derby, the ESPN-style analysis might go as follows:JERRY KILGORE Trainer: George Allen Jockey: Scott Howell
The quintessential one-hit wonder, having done nothing before or after winning the Virginia Attorney General's race in 2001. Extremely rich owners but a highly questionable track record. High-strung colt that is easily rattled under pressure. Seems to have no clue what to do in an actual race against tough competitors. Controversial Jockey Scott Howell known for his unscrupulous tactics. "Winning ugly" obviously is the strategy here.
GEORGE FITCH Trainer: None Jockey: Joe David
If nothing else, GEORGE FITCH is the most experienced horse in the race. Known as a "cool runner" who never gives up. Determined to win despite others rating his chances as "impossible." Comes with a long record of accomplishments and could pull an upset if everything breaks his way. Keep an eye on GEORGE FITCH, he's definitely a "dark horse" in this race.
RUSS POTTS Trainer: Lloyd Russ Jockey: Thomas J. D'Amore, Jr.
A product of Kentfield Farms in Middleburg, RUSS POTTS is known for running his own kind of race. Quirky, unpredictable, entertaining, and not to be underestimated. Jockey Thomas D'Amore's race strategy appears to be to narrow this down to a three-way race and then hope one of the lead horses makes a mistake. Watch for a slow start followed by a late burst of speed down the stretch. Outside pick for an upset.
TIM KAINE Trainer: Mark Warner Jockey: Mike Henry
A proven winner who has never been beaten, this will be the toughest race of his career. Quality and stamina, plus a great deal of heart in this horse; peforms extremely well in tough races. We like him very much, but wonder how he'll perform under the relentless pressure and possibly underhanded tactics of JERRY KILGORE jockey Scott Howell. Strategy appears to be to rattle JERRY KILGORE, stay right behind him, then pull away down the homestretch.