by Sam Hooper
Kentucky Derby weekend is usually a time filled with excitement and anticipation. Eight Belles, stablemate of Oaks' winner Proud Spell is one of the few fillies (females) who attempted to be the fourth filly in the 134-year history of the Derby to beat the boys. She finished second to winner Big Brown beating 18 other horses. Tragedy struck shortly after when Eight Belles suffered a condylar fracture to each front ankle. An injury as sudden and severe as two broken front-ankles caused Eight Belles to fall immediately because she could not stand. Horses put approximately 70% of their weight on the forehand, or front legs. The track veterinarians and trainer decided to euthanize her immediately because there was no way to repair the damage that was done.
Is the racing surface the problem or are the horses getting weaker? Several people interviewed on NBC after the race said they felt the condition of the track at Churchill Downs did not contribute to the injuries. But the track was "sealed" (packed with rollers) many times after downpours on Friday so the surface was probably quite hard on the horses.
It seems that Eight Belles sire (father) had hoof issues while racing and several of his offspring have inherited that trend. Between the hard surface of the track, the hoof issue seems like the more reasonable explanation for the fall.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
1 comment:
Lede is flat-boring.
This was a sensational, gripping event. Write like it shocked and moved you!
This article is like a shot at investigative journalism. You have identified a problem and tried to find the cause. It is not such a good opinion column. What is your opinion of horse racing, Churchill Downs?
State your opinion and solution to the issue.
Post a Comment