Over the course of just 11 days (Jun 7-21) at Churchill, 17 horses were scratched by the regulatory vet – i.e., their exploiters had every intention of racing them – for being “injured” or “unsound,” another 40 by private vets for being “injured” or “ill,” and 5 horses who were “claimed” (bought) prior to races were subsequently returned to their sellers because they finished said races physically compromised in one way or another.
In addition, say the stewards:
“Debt Paid suffered a post-race heatstroke; placed on Vet List.”
“Maximus Prime finished 6th and returned lame.”
“August finished 2nd and returned lame.”
“Heart of a Gunner flipped behind the starting gate and was injured.”
“Tilt a Twirl suffered a post-race heatstroke; placed on Vet List.”
“Back Ring Buzz returned lame.”
“Barker suffered a post-race heatstroke; placed on Vet List.”
Some trainers we worked for & rode for are just plain dumb & ignorant! Most know next to nothing about the true nature of horses. We sincerely hope that Emerald Downs quits operating due to economics. That`s the only real force that will eliminate racing. Higher purpose of properties for other uses. Grant`s Pass is notoriously hot in summer! Knew a very good hard working man that passed away at that track! Dave was still relatively young.When we experienced a devastating event in May of 2004, Dave was the ONLY one who comforted our relatives! Grant`s Pass would not be operating at all if the states subsidies from the lottery were taken away. Bottom of the barrel racing in Grant`s Pass with many horses injured & traumatized from being there. Poorly thought out barns & facilities just like Emerald. Many people don`t realize Emerald is already to go to become a storage unit facility! That`s why the barn area is made the way it was >30 years ago.
According to the article online, when the Heat Index gets to 105, they allegedly will discuss whether or not to race. It’s the New York State Gaming Commission that has all these protocols. There are more details in the article about the NYRA persevering with the opening-day card.
It’s revolting but if a horse drops dead from Heat Exhaustion or Heat Stroke, it’ll just be another day at the races. You know how that goes.
Teresa – they’re racing today as opening day and the first race went off in 95 degree heat.
I would love to see these assholes run in that heat. On top of that, many of the horses are already dehydrated from lasix. It’s an extra level of cruelty.
For one thing – I really don’t know if these people have any sense. What do we label as “Humanity” when we’re exploiting these innocent souls just for the sake of money, fame, and entertainment!! I don’t even know how the people in the industry never think of it from the horse’s place. This is exactly what I want to show the world through my book, The Voice Of Those Who Raced. This cruel bloodsport must end!
Are they completely out of their minds racing in this record heat???? How is that allowed? And please, please, someone tell me Saratoga is not going to race tomorrow?
The sadistic cruelty to the horses is overwhelming. I would not be one bit surprised if the trainers who had their horses scratched whined about it and would say that their horses were sound.
It is absolutely sickening at how sadistic and cruel the trainers are to the horses!