Saturday, November 3, 2012

The Class of the Race

The phrase "the class of the race" originated in the sport of horse racing.  It is an expression indicating that a contender has demonstrated a higher degree of ability and can perform better than his competition to achieve desired results.  Over time, having been applied to all types of races, it is a phrase and concept utilized well beyond its origin.  It is a concept particularly well-suited to the presidential race.
The power to perform, the competence and expertise, the capability to produce desired results -- such is the definition of class.  Class is, without a doubt, the biggest predictor of success.  Conversely, success, or lack thereof, is what determines class.
A high-class contender -- that is, one with considerable talents, is capable of succeeding, even though he might not be in top form, at his appropriate level or running in the best environment.  A low-class contender, however, is capable of succeeding only when in surroundings favorable to his mediocre or meager talents.  More often than not, a wager on the class of the race will yield positive results.
Presuming there is nothing in the environment to significantly hinder ability (for example, a treacherous track with many obstacles) or any uncontrollable events such as missteps, accidents, or cheating by opponents, the class of the race will win.  In fact, it just may be those obstacles and events that can highlight the exact reasons why a contender should win, as they provide an opportunity to show how he handles adverse conditions.  It is easy to do well in a supportive environment -- not so easy to do well in an adverse one.

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