I agree it is so depressing to be out of the race before the starting gate leaves. Never mind the fair start pole, if your horse is off stride before the gate goes then it is not a fair start for the betting public. I agree with running the race the owners have to put up with the fact that the horse was off stride but the bettor should never suffer. In our business we should act like most businesses that want your business. All decisions should be in favor of the bettor.
Let's keep trying to bettor the sport.