Among the many recently-released whipping violations in harness world, these:
Plainridge, Oct 16: “While driving #2 P A Piper, James Hardy was observed using his whip in an excessive manner, striking the horse 7 consecutive times in the stretch.” Fined $250, suspended one day.
Dayton, Oct 22: “Luke Hanners did whip the horse, #4 Hagrid, repeatedly after the finish.” Repeatedly. Hagrid, by the way, is but two years old. For this, Hanners was fined just $750 (no suspension), but: “the penalty will be reduced to $500 if not appealed.”
Then there’s this one:
Harrington, Oct 22: “Ross Shand did cause welts on Snow Burst. This is the second time that Mr. Shand has caused welts on a horse.” For this unequivocal animal abuse – twice over – Delaware gave this scumbag a choice: $1,000 fine or 10-day suspension. “Mr. Shand chose the suspension.” But I’m not done. Earlier this month we reported that Shand “failed an oral drug test” at Harrington. What more do you need, Delaware?
Delaware Harness Racing Commission: 302-698-4599
Harrington ED’s Office: 302-342-3040
Judge’s Office: 302-342-3001
Disgusting industry!
What does it take for the United States Trotting Association to say that the actions of these drivers who leave welts on horses and whip a two-year-old Standardbred excessively and after crossing the finish line are “not in the best interest of racing” and make a ruling to revoke their license to literally abuse horses???
Curious that horse racing attracts such lowlife scums. And I don’t mean the folks who clean the stalls. That s..t rises up to the top.