Chapter 72

Andrew remained calm. “Since you’re curious, let me explain. In the first race, everyone underestimated the mixed-breed horse due to its slower initial speed compared to purebreds. However, while mixed breeds lack explosive power, they excel in endurance. Mr. Thatcher overlooked this. This club’s track is nearly fifty meters longer than standard tracks; the extra distance favored the mixed breed’s superior stamina, allowing it to overtake the faster but less enduring horses.”

He gestured toward the racetrack. Mark contemplated this before asking, “I see. What about the second race?”

Andrew replied, “That was simpler. Your horse had a hidden injury to its left front hoof, causing it to stumble and fall.”

Harvey scoffed. “That sounds like cheating! How did you know?”

Andrew remained unfazed. “Just because others missed it doesn’t mean I had to.”

“You…” Harvey sputtered.

Bernard sneered. “You’re suggesting you have better judgment than Mr. Thatcher?”

“Those are your words,” Andrew responded flatly.

“Enough!” Mark’s commanding voice silenced them. “Dr. Lloyd, please explain how you spotted the horse’s condition.”

“The horse anxiously stomped its hoof before the race. As a doctor, I’m trained to spot signs of illness or discomfort. The same principle applies to horses,” Andrew explained.

Lauren applauded enthusiastically. Harvey’s group fell silent.

Mark joined the applause. “Brilliant! You possess keen observation and apply medical knowledge to racing! I don’t mind losing to such expertise!”

Andrew continued, “As for the final race, your thoroughbred should have won. However, it was a stallion, while my pick was a mare. That made all the difference.”

Mark looked puzzled. “What does gender have to do with it?”

Andrew explained, “Your thoroughbred, while fast, is still an animal ruled by instinct. Your stallion was in heat, easily distracted by mares. My mare had a crucial advantage. I’m sure you can deduce what happened when she was near an aroused stallion during the race.”