In the 6th at Belterra yesterday, this for 3-year-old California Kitty: “dropped far back, in a gallop through the stretch, just able to cross wire and walked off.” She crossed the wire, it turns out, 97+ lengths back. Now, some context: Belterra, like all Ohio tracks, is a racino, meaning it is being wholly propped up by slot machines. But this massive influx of non-racing revenue also allows the track to pay first-last. So, in crossing that wire – again, 97+ lengths back – California Kitty “earned” her people, including jockey Vernon Bush, $184. By the way, CK was coming off a last, 31 back in the race prior.
Then this: Oklahoma reports that 3-year-old Duanes Howd Id Do tested positive for caffeine after winning a race at Fair Meadows July 16. The miscreant responsible, trainer Luz Chavira, waived his right to both a split-test and a hearing, pretty much an admission of guilt. For this, he has merely been fined – no suspension.
This is horseracing.
No words. THIS IS HORSE RACING!
97 + lengths back – another horse who “loves to run”. And I’m sure she was treated like royalty back at her “palace”.
And, as another day comes to an end ….how many, and which horses will we be reading about tomorrow morning , that have been killed … ACTUALLY murdered by this toxic, shallow, greedy evil industry? Every damn day IT happens. How do these people live with themselves?