Through a FOIA request to the California Horse Racing Board, I have obtained the following details on some of that state’s kills last year (more can be found here).
Classic Coyne, Jul 2, Santa Anita T
“Horse had timed 5-furlong workout and collapsed past finish line – died spontaneously.” Official cause: “cardiopulmonary failure due to exercise-associated fatal pulmonary hemorrhage.” Also: “numerous chronic ulcers.” Classic was four years old.
Nevisian Sunrise, Jul 27, Del Mar T
“History of horse vs. gate: comminuted, displaced fractures of multiple vertebrae and [multiple] ribs; severe hemorrhage.” Also: “osteochondral disease [both front limbs].” Again, that’s “history of horse vs. gate.” Nevisian was five years old.
Loyal to a Fault, Aug 5, San Luis Rey T
“Horse injured LF leg and collapsed during morning training: complete, displaced, comminuted humerus fracture; extensive hemorrhage.” Also: “osteochondral disease, cartilage erosion [both front limbs].” Loyal was but three years old.
Big Update, Oct 12, Santa Anita S
“Diarrhea; severe, necrotizing typhlocolitis.” Big Update, also, was just three.
I agree, makes me feel sick that the Horseracing industry knows what kills the horses, yet they still continue to push the horses beyond their known ability time and time again. To say a horse died spontaneously of pulmonary haemorrhage, numerous ulcers is their fault and poor management. Horseracing must end.
It is truly sickening that people use the cruel and deadly exploitation of horses as a backdrop for some social gathering. I wonder how many were getting married at Del Mar where they were completely oblivious to the sadistic abuse of horses going on during their “special” day.