No human being can match a thoroughbred racehorse's package of speed, strength, determination and grace.
Horsemen, sportswriters, bettors and fans repose so much dreamlike admiration -- and such high financial stakes -- in horses that the animals are described as, and treated like, professional athletes.
(Remarkable performers though jockeys are, the athletes who primarily determine racing results are the horses.)
To read Max Dickstein's full column, click here.