Over the course of just 5 days (Jul 4-10) at Ellis, 11 horses were scratched by the regulatory vet – i.e., their exploiters had every intention of racing them – for being “injured” or “unsound,” another 10 by private vets for being “injured” or “ill,” and 4 horses who were “claimed” (bought) prior to races…

Through a FOIA request to the Ohio Racing Commission, I have confirmed the following kills at that state’s tracks thus far this year. Look to the Cross, Jan 5, Mahoning R “Pulled up lame – open [through the skin] fracture.” Look to the Cross was three. American Silver, Jan 7, Mahoning R “Horse suffered catastrophic…

According to the chart for the 9th at Horseshoe Jul 6, Apollitical Mission’s run was uneventful: “tight early, even run,” finished 3rd. Then came this from the stewards: “Apollitical Mission was vanned off after the race. Dr. Hirschy called the stewards to report the horse had some sort of non-skeletal issue. Horse was humanely euthanized…

Earlier this month, I relayed that bankrupt Hawthorne was given a deadline by the judge to find a “going concern” bid – one that would keep racing – to exceed one that had come in from a non-racing entity. That deadline has come and gone. The upshot: Unless something dramatic happens, Hawthorne will close at…