The Stewards’ Report for Saturday’s Virginia Gold Cup (steeplechase) has been released, and here is what we’ve learned:
“Pursuing Pace suffered a fractured shoulder and was transported for surgery.”
“Welshman suffered a possible puncture of his LF tendon sheath and transported for further evaluation.”
“Bogey’s Image bled from both nostrils [pulmonary hemorrhage] and was placed on the Vet’s List.”
Then this:
“Go Poke the Bear fell four fences from the finish. He sustained a radius fracture and was euthanized on the course.” Go was eight years old, and this was his 50th race.
In addition, and as reported Monday, two other horses – Rhythmia, Photo Copy – fell. No updates on them however. Despite all this, and just as they had done a year ago when six horses fell and at least one died, the stewards applauded the course’s “outstanding condition,” adding that it “had never been in better shape.” I’ve run out of adjectives.
I have always disliked steeplechase racing! 8 year old horse with 50 races?! If they were all jumps races just think about the wear & tear on that horses limbs! I`m not even close to 166#! The horses would have been happy with me aboard as I`m a natural light weight & small size. Never would I participate in racing however.
It’s mind boggling to think that these horses could be carrying 166 pounds, some more and some less, on their backs while galloping and jumping over hurdles. This is definitely pre-meditated abuse and killing of horses.
There is nothing essential about this steeplechase racing. It’s clearly a barbaric activity for the rich and the wannabe rich. It should be recognized as Animal Cruelty and banned.