Are there any horse racing fans here? Really, I’m not big on it, but I do enjoy watching the big three. Yesterday, I had my 6 year old baby niece with me for a while & I had her all pumped up about watching the ‘Tucky Derby’ as she calls it. She loves, loves, loves horses.
It was certainly an exciting race! Big Brown won it by, I think, four and three-quarter lengths! What an awesome horse! He is now 4 for 4. According to an article I read this morning, he was the first horse in 93 years to win the Derby off only three life-time races! All of the odds were against him in a way….he’d been off for months dealing with sore hoofs in his front feet & he broke from the farthest outside post, number 20, from which only one other horse in the Derby’s 134 year history has won. That win was way back in 1929!
According to the jockey, Big Brown was just cruising around the track & he was letting the horse do his thing. Later, with a little nudge, Big Brown took off with a “whoosh” and shortly thereafter, according to another jockey, it was like Big Brown “kicked in the afterburners” and he was gone!
How exciting….what a triumph! My baby niece had been all excited watching the events unfold on TV. She was down on the floor playing with all of her little toy horses, staging her own race, making all the whinnies & snorts horses make. Neither of us realized at that time the other happenings that had also taken place on the track.
I’m so thankful that I did not have to figure out how to tell this little girl the tragedy of Eight Belles, the only filly in the race. She came in a hearty second place & was galloping off into her cool-down when she collapsed.
Having broken both front legs, there was no way to save her, according to the team of veterinarians who quickly arrived on the scene. She was euthanized immediately.
So it was said by Dr. Larry Bramlage, of the American Association of Equine Practitioners, it is not “terribly unheard of” for a horse to finish a race then break down when pulled up at the finish." How horrible. She was such a beautiful animal with so much promise.
I was some what surprised that I had not seen anyone blog with regards to the Kentucky Derby yesterday or today. Of course, from all appearances, things are a little slow here in blogland of late. What really prompted me to write my own blog now was yet another article I just read from Fox Sports regarding Peta's stand on the issue.
I am sure PETA does tons of good work in our society. I personally, am rather shocked at their calling for the suspension of Eight Belles' jockey at this point; however, hearing from them when I heard of this tragedy is what I expected.
Copy & paste to friend: (Click inside box; Ctrl + C to copy; Ctrl + V to paste)
|
|
read more blogs!
Blogs by missliss78:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| The Triumph and the Tragedy...... |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
teddybearagain
|
May 4 @ 9:08PM
|
|
I watched the race yesterday too. I LOVE horses. They are so graceful,
passionate, fiery, yet peaceful.
I was rooting for Big Brown too. I cried when they said they put Belles down.
Bittersweet
|
|
fenderchick
|
May 4 @ 9:09PM
|
|
|
I've never seen horse racing, it's a tragedy though that happened, I saw it on the new's.
|
|
maggiemae684
|
May 4 @ 9:16PM
|
|
|
My heart broke when I read about the filly in this mornings paper. I am not an expert on horses by any means but had she had any injury prior I am sure she would have changed her gait or slowed down. As for PETA'S stand...well just keep in mind that they are the ones (although exonerated by some idiot judge) who untrained euthanised a bunch of dog then so respectfully tossed the animals in a dumpster. I do know that any animal with Euthansol or it's equivalent is required to be buried a certain depth due to the dangers of the drug to other animals that may be feeding off the carcass. I have no respect for PETA....an organization that tends to behave in ways that do not reflect what their name stands for and tend to blow off before they have all the facts. And...no....because both legs were broken she could not be saved....the kindest, most humane act was to euthanise her on the spot. Unfortunately....it is a risk with the sport despite all the precautions and regulations.
|
|
jadedbtch
|
May 4 @ 9:18PM
|
|
Not really a race fan but did hear about the horse that had to be put down and it broke my heart 
|
|
hpylady1
|
May 4 @ 9:22PM
|
|
I never miss the Kentucky Derby .. it is very exciting but yet sad too .. everyone of those horses are giving 100%... and I always root for all of them then when that one horse always comes from way behind and wins .. it's sooo exciting... I always hate the thought of them putting one of them down .. but I would not like to see them suffer either ... great blog .. you covered everything 
|
|
TallBlonde1
|
May 4 @ 9:31PM
|
|
|
I love the horse races and sadly I've seen more than one horse put down because of injury. I've also seen horses suddenly die of anuresyms, it's not something you ever forget and it's a tragedy to see such a majestic animal go down. Accidents happen and injuries occur in any sporting event. I think blaming the jockey when she was on the cool-down run is outrageous, but I didn't see the race or any tape so I will withhold judgement for now. What a sad day.
|
|
Redwicket
|
May 4 @ 9:38PM
|
|
Well, I Do know Horses...Just how the h*ll does a young horse break BOTH legs from
running ONE race folks...Hmmm? That is NOT normal...something is Not Right! jmo
|
|
Jeffky49
|
May 4 @ 9:55PM
|
|
|
It was a tragedy that a 3yr old filly had to be put down. It was also one of the most exciting races in recent derby history. The Kentucky Derby is more than just a race to those who live here in Louisville. It is an event steeped in tradition that starts with festivities almost 2 weeks prior to the race. For those who have never been here........there is Thunder over Louisville which is a day long event of air shows, bands and food on the riverfront that culminates at night with the largest fireworks display in the world that is launched from barges on the Ohio river and from two bridges connecting Kentucky and Indiana. Next on tap later in the week is one of the largest hot air balloon races in the U.S., followed later by a steamboat race and a huge parade that is approx 20 blocks long. Derby time is a great time to be living in the "Ville"
|
|
VaPeppermintPatti
|
May 4 @ 9:57PM
|
|
Break downs are unfortunately part of the horse racing game whether it be flat, steeple, or harness. Sadly, it must be stated that "break downs" happen often in human sports as well. Please recall the horrendous career ending injuries of Joe Montana years ago and others in various sports. Or the death of Dale Earnhart seconds before the close of the Daytona 500 those years ago.
I grew up around the racing industry in Maryland; my father owned shares in a number of pacers and trotters. When the racing is good it is terrific, but then when it is bad...well, you know what I mean. I can tell you that the owner(s) of Eight Belles had that filly insured to the max and more of an emotional loss versus a financial. Fillies are hard to race and especially when she turns out to be a consistent winner. They don't really make any real profit after retiring. That is why you see very few major distaff accolades and the stallions are the ones that make the headlines. Promotion for future stud fees.
I will tell you from my own experience, that every time your horse is out there racing there is no real thrill, but only that you are praying for a clean trip and no mishaps. You're there with your heart in your throat. It hurts to have to put a horse down and just as bad as having to do so as the family dog or cat.
Fortunately yesterday the jockey was not hurt and was able to pull the horse up and dismount with no threat to himself. My heart goes out to the jockey as he is more than likely wondering why he didn't feel that filly's unevenness sooner and pull her up before such horrid damage was done. He's blaming himself. This was one of those situations that no one could have forseen in any way or manner. You have no idea how many times the jocks are injured and receive no real compensation. The jockey was lucky yesterday than an ambulance wasn't called for him as well since the rest of the field was behind him and what could have occurred. Please remember that pound for pound a jockey is the best trained and muscled athlete in ALL sports...proven fact. Same thing can be said of the drivers in harness racing.
It can also be said that the way these horses are bred today for muscle structure, lung capacity and lighter bone structure are to blame for Eight Belle's break down. You just cannot predict why one bred to those specs does exceedling well with no physical harm whatsoever and another breaks down. All a roll of the dice. One can always argue about breeding for extreme "type" whether it be horses, dogs, cats, or whatever. Go to an AKC or CFA show and you'll see what I am talking about when it comes to dogs and cats. It will scare you what they are doing to the pedigreed breeds today and all the hidden genetic probs from inbreeding.
Back out of leftfield...
Bottom line...Racing is a VERY dangerous sport when you actually think about it. And you have to remember these are not your every day rides or hacks, but high strung, bred to run. They aren't pets, but they are sincerely loved.
In closing, explaining these facts to a child is difficult and that is why you rarely see small children at any track. These horses are not Misty of Chincoteague or Farley's Black Beauty, and children have a tough time disassociating from the facts. I don't recommend exposing children to horse racing, TV or live. I know that I waited till my son was well into his teens before I did so, and my father was behind my decision as well. Just my simple recommendation.
|
|
Redwicket
|
May 4 @ 10:06PM
|
|
The Animal racing industry is Rife with abuse...like as not she was already injured prior
to the race and they ran her anyway... Racing horses are seen as a Money investment,
They don't care about the animal...the pain that she might have felt, they care about the
money...pure and simple.
|
|
maggiemae684
|
May 4 @ 10:08PM
|
|
|
Patti...I must say I appreciate your insight into the horse racing life....I learned things from your brief prose that I didn't know. I do not, however, agree with not exposing children to sports such as this because the outcome may not be favorable to the participants. Children, in their uncomplicated minds, actually have a better understanding and acceptance of death than we do as adults. I have worked with both animals and children at the same time and have had to explain to them why a certain animal is no longer with us....I have yet to have a problem with them not understanding....the key is to make sure the explanation is geared to the age group and to answer all questions they may have.
|
|
redtigr
|
May 4 @ 11:33PM
|
|
I love horses. I abhor horse racing.
Back when I considered veterinary medicine with a specialty in equine medicine, I spent time around race tracks and trainers. It was horrifying. Crippled, miserable horses, doped and fired (hot metal inserted along the cannon bones to "strengthen and thicken" the bones); horses pulled out of stalls dead lame and galloped and raced under whip and on painkillers; horses standing in stalls 22 hours a day until they sway back and forth and crib (chew wood and suck air) because they are so whacked out from sheer boredom and isolation from other horses. Few realize that hard training begins when the horses are not yet mature - when bones are still growing and very fragile.
The public sees horses galloping and they get all misty-eyed and excited and they think "How beautiful!! Just look at them racing in all their natural glory. What a sport!!"
Nothing could be further from the truth.
Horses racing is not the natural state of things. Horses gallop in the wild to avoid danger. Speed is relevant in that the faster horse is likely to survive - but horses are not competitive in the way humans are. Horses don't naturally gallop any further than necessary - and they don't run when injured unless forced to do so. Humans will do anything to have their horses win. It's all about money and glory for the owners. This kind of tragedy is an all too common occurrence.
Sure the horses are beautiful and not all owners and trainers are monsters, but everyone connected with this so-called sport is aware of what goes on out of the public eye - and especially at the smaller, less prosperous tracks.
I'm always amazed at people who say they love horses and horse racing. I just shake my head. As far as I'm concerned love of horses and horse racing - as it is conducted - are mutually exclusive states.
|
|
VaPeppermintPatti
|
May 4 @ 11:37PM
|
|
What I stated was merely a recommendation from my perspective and life experiences. Nothing more and nothing less. This is far beyond the ceremonial funeral flushing of the $.10 (ten cent) feeder gold fish bought as a lark to pacify a child's immediate want that went "belly-up."
With regards to abuse...I'm sorry, but I've seen far, far more abuse at the hands of the private pet (dog, cat, gerbil, hamster, horse, pony, etc.) owners than professionals. Mind you, I am not including breeders in there as there are many that have no scruples whatsoever and who make it difficult for the conscientious breeder.
How many times have you read about or actually seen in real life the "collectors?"
Or you've known a friend that has kept a dog or cat alive with cancer or other horrendous disease with the animal suffering because they, the "dedicated and loving" owner, stupidly weren't ready to let go yet?
How many times have you seen a stable that hasn't been mucked out in years and horses more than hock deep in filth?
What about the people that stupidly purchase puppies, kittens, bunnies, etc. from a pet shop and knowing full well that appx. 90% of these animals come from mills? Don't let me forget the owners of these mills and how the stupid public keeps them in business, too. Hmmm?
To reiterate, there is far more abuse in the hands of private homes and stables than in the industry, and so much of it is never reported.
Okay...I'm off my soapbox and will stop the tub-thumping now. It is all a moot point.
SPAY AND NEUTER YOUR PETS! ADOPT FROM A RELIABLE ANIMAL SHELTER TO SAVE FROM HAVING TO BE PUT DOWN FOR LACK OF A HOME OR IF YOU MUST PURCHASE, PURCHASE ONLY FROM A VET APPROVED BREEDER!
|
|
maggiemae684
|
May 4 @ 11:48PM
|
|
Patti...I worked for years with the SPCA....my comment was definitely not about a dollar store gold fish. Part of my job was working with children and educating them in all aspects of animal care....from birth to death....including abuse, proper care etc...
"With regards to abuse...I'm sorry, but I've seen far, far more abuse at the hands of the private pet (dog, cat, gerbil, hamster, horse, pony, etc.) owners than professionals. Mind you, I am not including breeders in there as there are many that have no scruples whatsoever and who make it difficult for the conscientious breeder."
I could tell yah all stories that would make you sick and keep you awake for weeks....horses, cattle, sheep, dogs, cats, rodents, and yes fish. Also among 'professional' people as well....animal abuse knows no boundaries.
|
|
imlost2
|
May 5 @ 12:23AM
|
|
|
I come from a long family of horse owners and have raised and owned horses all my life. Having said this. I still have a problem with horse racing, they start those colts riding as yearlings because they have to be ready for the track. Most times horses off the track are lame and really no good to anyone by a very young age. And yes steriods, painkillers whatever to keep em fit. They may pass the drug testing at the race, but you wouldn't believe what goes on at home at the barn. It's like taking your 8 yr. old son and making him lift weights. Those colts and fillies are just too young in my opinion. We just start our colts riding after they mature at about three or four, depending on the breed. Arabs take longer to mature than Quarterhorses etc. So even tho they have good bloodlines, they are still youngsters on the track, something usually does give healthwise.
|
|
Redwicket
|
May 5 @ 12:34AM
|
|
Abuse is Abuse...and Not to Offend anyone, but to me to Make Money on the Pain and
Suffering of Any creature is something that a Monster would do.
By standing up for such treatment, and I don't care if it's a Race Horse or a little bitty
mouse says a lot about what a person values.
Most people who are fans of the Triple Crown and watch on TV really don't have any
idea what goes on, BUT that said...Someone who Does know and still stands up for it...
Words fail.
|
|
misschoos
|
May 5 @ 12:32PM
|
|
Our Grand National is four miles and it has thirty fences.
>>>Five Dead Horses 2000<<<
>>Two Dead Horses 2002 <<<
>>>2006 Nine Horses - Cheltenham Festival<<<
>>> 2008 & 38 Dead Horses Since 1997<<<
|
|
misschoos
|
May 5 @ 12:33PM
|
|
Oops, I posted that before I had finished.
~*~
|
|
imlost2
|
May 5 @ 1:47PM
|
|
Misschoos, that is just the tip of the iceberg. Having been in the show circuit for many years and being a trainer, you wouldn't believe things people do to beat their competitor. I think it probably happens as in sterioids etc in all sports when so much money is involved. I've seen when people spend alot of money on a horse into the thousands in training and buying a horse and it goes lame, or maybe mentally challenged under pressure, out comes the painkillers or tranquillizers or speedtype drugs. This happens so much it's gotten crazy, sure they have drug testing, but they are finding ways around this too, just as in other sports. Anything a person does with a horse has to be carefully checked. Our show horses get massages, linment baths, health needs done, hooves cared for, plenty of good rest, exercise etc. and are not asked to do anything until they are mature, muscles and bones fully grown. What bothers me is the typical horseowner that takes their horse out for a weekend and runs the heck out of them without being fit. That like asking you to do a marathon when you are out of shape. Many will die this summer because of heat stroke from people doing this or have heart attacks.
I could go on and on, but it would take few pages. Getting down from my soap box now. 
|
|
|