DON'T BE STUPID, BE A SMARTY:

Philly captures Derby: Smarty Jones prevails (JIM O'DONNELL, May 2, 2004, Chicago Sun-Times)

As expected, it rained just before the Kentucky Derby on Saturday. But the most memorable thunder came moments later during the stretch run of the 130th Run for the Roses.

The thunderer's name was Smarty Jones, and don't forget it. The determined chestnut colt came into the Derby unbeaten but unsung and underappreciated. He left unbowed and might be considered unrivaled among horses of his generation before all is said and done.

Showing the same ferocious closing competitiveness that powered him to six straight victories before his date with thoroughbred history, the wild-eyed Pennsylvania-bred brought his ''A'' game again when it mattered, racing by the pace-setting Lion Heart in the closing furlongs to win the $854,800 first prize.