Question

In 1973, Secretariat became the first racehorse to win the Triple Crown in 25 years. In this clip, Secretariat is poised to run the final leg of the triple crown, the Belmont Stakes. When the gates open, Secretariat and his jockey go out very fast, so fast that his owners and trainers are filled with angst. At one point a trainer says "This is no good" (thinking that the fast pace will cause Secretariat to tire and get caught). As the race goes on, rather than tiring Secretariat builds his lead, and the doubt that his supporters had turns into unbridled optimism and joy. Secretariat wins by a large margin, and this race is thought by many to be the greatest single performance by a racehorse of all time. This is my question to you? Why do people doubt when things don't go exactly as planned? Do you think Secretariat would have been helped or hindered if his jockey had held him back? What does this movie clip teach us about what to do if we're sure we're doing the right thing but people are skeptical and doubt? P.S. If you'd like to see the real race, it is available on YouTube. It's a little grainy but is something to see. Just type into YouTube: Secretariat--Belmont Stakes 1973

Answer 1

Interesting question and a very inspiring scene. About the question, I believe it depends on people to go at a higher pace and finish a 100-meter race or go slow and win a marathon. This particular scene is more about surprising the audience with a consistent pace throughout the race and it is human nature to doubt unusual actions. In life too, there will be people around you who doubt your job changes, education preferences, career choices etc but it's important to stick to the motivation/goal that you decided before taking an unusual path. Stay put and be consistent on the path- you'll hopefully succeed. I cannot deny the possibility of Secretariat being helped if held back, but gaining a lead is important if winning the game is your aim.
This movie clip gives a very strong message about being consistent on your idea. When people start doubting you/your abilities have an interesting comeback ready for them! Also, just wanted to add this- to pursue something extraordinary/new you need to have either capabilities or the passion. If you have both- excellent. If you have the passion- you can get things done. If you have the capabilities- you will do the part. But if you don't have either, people who are resisting your ideas might be proven right.