I am so upset with what happened to this horse. It is torture to the tenth degree what they do to these animal just to make a dollar. When will this all end?

Posted by: corrine koenig | May 4, 2008 10:41 AM

I know you'll think I'm crazy but I love animals so much I feel this is a disgusting "sport" if you want to call it that. I think in cases where the horse dies (and let's face it, it's only for money) the jockey, trainer and owners should die also. They are scum and what this jockey did to that horse is irreprehensible. This idot jockey should be banned from every being near a horse - what the heck - he'll get his money. Actually, the sport should be banned.
Also, the artical about anal and genital killing of fur bearing animals made me actually sick - my stomach hurts and I want to cry.

Posted by: Priscilla Beeman | May 4, 2008 10:53 AM

I hope that everyone at the Derby was so sick at what they saw and witnessed they vomited in their seats and I hope their sick feeling follows them around for a long time.
A long time ago when one of my co-workers was betting on the Derby, I told him what I thought and he stupidly said that horses were made to run. Ignornant people.

Posted by: Priscilla Beeman | May 4, 2008 10:57 AM

Maybe a few more mint juleps will help us to forget:(

Posted by: mattro2.0 | May 4, 2008 11:04 AM

HORSES & CLASS in the USA? The black football star goes to prison for electrocuting dogs. The white race horse owners get condolence letters when they murder their filly on national TV. What's wrong with this picture?

Posted by: Valerie Cohen | May 4, 2008 11:19 AM

1. Barbaro didn't die at the Preakness Stakes. He was injured there, but he did die of the injuries sustained. However, that was later. A dead horse is a dead horse and it's a horrible thing, but when you don't have your facts straight... the article loses all credibility.
2. Eight Belles was not killed in front of thousands. She was put down in the equine ambulance. It's still a tragedy, but do some journalistic work.

Posted by: Liz Morrissey | May 4, 2008 11:25 AM

How stupid is horse racing? Why don't we make people wear harnesses and be whipped because they're not going fast enough? Maybe THEN people will listen!

Posted by: bob | May 4, 2008 11:33 AM

I totally agree with your comments. I am just outraged at this senseless death of Eight Belles. Why do people insist on watching these races? It is hard to believe that we as a human race enjoy watching animals or even other humans suffer just so we can make money off of it. I wish they would make these races illegal. Of course the only way people will stop their involvement is if there is no money to be had.

Posted by: J Davis | May 4, 2008 11:39 AM

I am a faithful Peta member and an avid lover of horses, thoroughbreds in particular. I am always torn when these races come around because I am amazed by the grace, beauty and power of these horses but horrified by this sport and the tactics it uses to make money. Barbaro's death crushed me. This has finished off horse racing for me. I gave up show jumping several years ago for a lot of the reasons I will now no longer peek thru my fingers at a horse race and pray no horse gets hurt. There should be suspensions starting with the NTRA all the way down to the grooms that pack their feet. It's too much and it must end.

Posted by: Mary | May 4, 2008 11:39 AM

hi was screaming at the television with tears in my eyes while the vets surrounded Eight Belles with the several equine ambulances to block the view from the crowd, making sure to minimize the dirty truth about what happens on the track year after year.

what's worse, NBC pans to the winners circle, dancing and parading their greedy faces around the track while a poor, innocent, beautiful creature needlessly suffers and dies on the other end. just plain old bad sportsmanship.

i was in tears and will never watch this "sport" again. the anorexic/bulemic jockey's should feel hard fines that will hit their pockets since they clearly don't care about whipping these intelligent animals.

Posted by: agag | May 4, 2008 11:49 AM

Dear PETA:

I believe that PETA goals, in general, are noble. I also believe that steps can be taken to make horse racing safer. However:

When PETA makes claims like this: "it's a dirty business and no better than dogfighting" - you do a disservice to your cause.

The goal, in dogfighting is violence - that is the point of it. No one, and I mean no one, who loves horse racing wants to see any harm to a horse. At worst (and even this is debatable), there are some who are indifferent to animal suffering. Having been at a track when a horse broke down and was euthanized, I can say that the pall that falls over the crown, en masse, belies a very different attitude.

And, I can assure you, the tears that were shed by Eight Belles connections were not crocodile tears - and not only because of the money involved. Perhaps it suits your political interests to paint horsemen like Larry Jones as a monster, but that is sheer slander. Please, be above the fray.

Finally, while there are too many breakdowns, these amount to (thankfully) precious few deaths when considered next the total numbers of horses bred the US every year (though there are perhaps too many of those as well). Clearly, for the vast majority of horses, their bones can take it. Synthetic tracks may offer a better solution, but there have been breakdowns on these as well. And the horse I saw breakdown? . . . happened on the turf.

AJ Kreider
Miami

Posted by: ajkreider | May 4, 2008 11:50 AM

I agree one hundred percent. The "Sport of Kings" is precisely that: a diversion for the wealthy, with complete disregard for the noble animals which are sacrificed daily for purely inane and perverse pleasures.

Posted by: Gerard Monteux | May 4, 2008 11:55 AM

terrible. just terrible

Posted by: Russell | May 4, 2008 11:55 AM

terrible. just terrible

Posted by: Russell | May 4, 2008 11:55 AM

Greed and waste greed and waste a contnious cycle that benefits only those heartless people who couldn't care less for anyone but themselves and anything but their wallets.

Posted by: Rebecca | May 4, 2008 11:56 AM

Something should be done about
horseracing!!!! I get sick to
my stomach everytime I think
about it. Horses may love to
run, but should not be whipped
to run and make money for the
owner and rider. Where is the
protection for these beautiful
animals. Let them race with-
out the whips, and let the
jockeys earn their money.
Just think what that beautiful
animal must have felt just
before she died. Something
has to be done. At the least
whips MUST not be used.
Jan Blair

Posted by: jan blair | May 4, 2008 12:04 PM

How many more horses have to die at the Kentucky Derby before this barbaric spectacle is banised from our culture? We all heard the horror story about the race yesterday. Stop supporting this event. Look at the sponsors who have invested financial support to the derby. Don't buy thier products! Write to the Govenor of Kentucky to include KY Senators. Boycott Kentucky. Tourism dollars are big business. They will get the message when it hits their bottom line. We can make a difference so that Eight Belles did not die in vain.

Posted by: Rennie Barnaba | May 4, 2008 12:07 PM

All these poor thoroughbreds are bred for speed hence the weak bones, plus they are raced as 2year olds when far from fully developed in the skeletal regions. Very sad indeed. If not completely abolished stronger racing welfare issues should be put in place. . alas this will never happen whilst the dollar is King.

Posted by: keith | May 4, 2008 12:13 PM

"Despite the wealth associated with thoroughbred racing, for the horses—most of whom end up broken, cast off, or sent to Europe to be killed for the dinner table—it's a dirty business and no better than dogfighting."

Couldn't agree more. This says it all and is one of the biggest hurdles to overcome when it comes to ending this "sport". Dog fighting has a reputation of being violent and associated with other crimes so it is an easier argument for people to accept its brutality. Unfortunately, that is not the case with horse racing, where the wealthy owners give lip service to how much they love and care for their animals and most people see it as a "civilized" sport where it is socially acceptable to spend an afternoon at the racetrack. The commercials that air for the racetrack in my community even show a montage of sound bites of celebrities who have stopped by for a "day at the races", which adds another layer of legitimacy. Surely celebrities wouldn't lend their support to animal abuse. It is incredibly frustrating trying to convince people of the reality behind this sport.

Posted by: Gracie | May 4, 2008 12:22 PM

I am so very saddened by what happened to Eight Belles yesterday. I turned immediately to PETA to see what they posted. I would support whatever actions need to be taken to stop this barbaric so called sport.

Posted by: Cindy L Price | May 4, 2008 12:33 PM

I am so glad that peta is making people aware of the horrors of horse racing. What happened to Eight Belles yesterday if far to common. Most likely she had hairline fractures in her cannon bones before she ever left the starting gate. Barbaro suffered the same type injury as did Afleet Alex. On May 2 Chelokee suffered the same type fracture in the Alysheba Stakes also at Churchill Downs. This horse was trained by Michael Matz who also trained Barbaro. Are we seeing the pattern here? I could give you a long list of names of horses that have had this same injury. What about the ones that have soft tissue injuries or are left with joint and arthritis issues. I can guarantee you that more then one horse was injured in that race yesterday but they will suffer silently out of the eyes of the public. Ever wonder what happens to these beautiful animals after they can no longer make money? Many go to slaughter. Sorry guy, we know you made us millions but now you're costing us so you've got to go. Ferdinand, the 1986 winner of The Kentucky Derby
went to the slaughter house. He had won close to 4 million dollars during his career but could not produce foals with his same talent. Most people see nothing wrong with this sport because they are ignorant of the aftermath but shame on those that are fairly animal savvy and attend these races. Some of the same celebrities that have done anticruelty ads for peta have attended The Kentucky Derby. Peta has made huge progress in helping many other animals in bad situations. Hopefully this will start to open the eyes of the American public. This sport is all about the almighty dollar. Some of the richest people in the world own racehorses and therefore this cruel sport will most likely continue for years to come.

Posted by: Carol C. | May 4, 2008 12:35 PM

This makes me so bloody angry. Here in Ireland, Jockeys are treated like Gods'. Apart from my own immediate family, I have never met one person who sees anything wrong in horse racing. When a jockey falls from a horse during a race, there is so much concern for his wellbeing, when the horse gets horribly injured, most people only care about the money they lost betting on the race. I would be very surprised if Gabriel Saez is suspended, more likely he will be treated as a hero who went through a traumatic time. I hope that one day, somebody takes a horsewhip to him,and beats him to within an inch of his life. I only wish it could be me.
Sleep safely with the angels Eight Belles. May you find the peace and happiness you never had on Earth. RIP.

Posted by: Mary | May 4, 2008 12:56 PM

Dear Peta,

Please continue your involvement by lobbying for change. Please start with the horse racing association.

This beautiful horse's painful injury and death was due to racing as a 3 year old.
Young horses like her are simply not physically mature enough for their young bodies to handle the pounding and intensity that this long race requires. This fact and the the fact that the Kentucky Derby is a long race for such young horses has been known to the horse racing world for years yet nothing has been done to solve the problem.
If the horse racing association would simply change the age requirement to 4, this simple act would save horses from early injury.
To simply say nothing could have been done to save this horse is completely false.
The racing association could change the rule to 4 year olds.
To use common sense, to see the pattern of too young horses being raced and then getting injured, and destroyed should be enough to get the racing industry to change.
One reason that the "controversy "of raising the age limit to race just one more year remains a hidden debate and is not mentioned in all today's articles on the filly's death is....greed. The racing association and the media sponsers for the Derby do not want the public to suddenly realize that the racing world has known all this time that the Derby is a dangerous race for a young horse. A public who just saw a horse die on TV should be outraged that this horse is a victim of the racing association not being self governed enough to change to fix a problem. These horses are pushed beyond their physical maturity at 3 so these owners can get started on earning money.
How short sighted can humans be?
If they would simply just change the rules and make the age requirement 4 years old instead of 3, these horses would be much more likely to be healthy longer, and have a longer racing career.

Posted by: t minteer | May 4, 2008 01:14 PM

May Eight Belles spirit be at rest...

I admit that I don't know alot about horse racing, but I agree with one of Peta's main ideas- that animals aren't here to serve us or to do our bidding for our entertainment.
While I'm sure many people would say that horses love to race, I think it is better put that horses love to run and stretch their legs- but racing is a made up sport simply so people can gamble. And I don't mean to imply that all who are involved in horse racing are cruel, I'm sure many love horses and have dedicated themselves to the animals in ways that I have no knowledge of. But, even so, this tragic event is just another example of how an animal can be pushed beyond their ability and their needs can be so easily overlooked for human uses.
This brings to mind another tragedy of horse racing that I was just reading about again, that of the horses who end up slaughtered after their glorious racing careers. In most of these cases, race horses probably end up being sold to slaughterhouses unbeknownst to their previous owners, but it does happen, with the animals once again paying the price for human irresponsibility.

So many issues to consider, and it's just very sad that this beautiful girl died painfully and before her time.
There are already some nice tributes to her on Youtube.com for anyone interested.

Posted by: Susan | May 4, 2008 01:15 PM

I was watching the Kentucky Derby yesterday; not for the racing necessarily, but to view these magnificent creatures show themselves as they pranced around the arena. My favorite was the glorious filly, Eight Bells!! I realized at the ending of this tragedy that these beasts are pushed beyond their endurance; this racing must be stopped! Eight Bells gave too much of herself and died for the effort! Rest in peace my beautiful brave filly! I would like to make a donation towards stopping this playtime for the very wealthy; which resulted this day in the euthanization of a wonderful animal! For shame!

Posted by: Yvonne Marie | May 4, 2008 01:48 PM

I am so sickened by this tragic event that I seeked out a place to vent. I am not even a member of PETA! I was driven to tears when I learned about this beautiful animal being abused to death for profit. The agony felt by this poor ceature just rips at my heart.... I want to get involved to stop this abuse!

Posted by: Lori Bonomo | May 4, 2008 01:57 PM

I work in the racehorse industry. I am a groom. My job is to do everything I can to make the horses happy. I feed, water, clean, keep there stalls spotless, brush - and do everything they might need to be as happy as possible. This is a very tough job with long hours, I get up a 4:30 every morning and don't get to bed until 10 that night. 7 days a week. I sleep in a tack room no bigger than 7 by 7 feet.The wages are very low, 400 dollars a week. Many people would never do such a job, but I do it out of my love for animals. I'm not the only one, there are many hard working grooms dedicating there life to horse racing for low wages and hard working conditions. When you call it a dirty business only associated with weathly owners you are insulting me and basically spitting in my face. The rage I feel toward your organization cannot be put into words. I would invite you do follow me around for one day to see the hard labor I do to make sure these horses are happy before you write such harsh words about the racing industry.

Posted by: Sam | May 4, 2008 01:59 PM

Well I love Peta but I most certainly disagree about the Kentucky Derby being so bad. Kentucky LOVES their horses. The race is only two minutes long and a mile and a quarter isn't hard for the horses to run. Eight Belles's legs didn't break because they abuse them, they broke because they were weak. Thanks for listening.

Posted by: Gabriella | May 4, 2008 02:08 PM

God, this is horrible. Whom can we contact to support the suspension of Saez?

Posted by: Mary | May 4, 2008 02:13 PM

both horse and dog racing should be banned.
that is all i can say.

Posted by: ann | May 4, 2008 02:14 PM

I'm so sick over this cruelty, will it never end? That jockey should have known the horse was in distress rather than beating her. The wealth in horse racing is so unfathomable, how do you fight to end this, can it be done?

Posted by: Donna G | May 4, 2008 02:14 PM

Get them Peta!
Shame on jockey Gabriel Saez—for whipping poor Eight Belles mercilessly as she came down the final stretch, no doubt in agony from two front legs that were about to snap.
Shame on the Racing Industry!
Get them Peta!

Posted by: Holly | May 4, 2008 02:26 PM

Britain's leading Sunday newspaper, the Mail on Sunday, recently published this damning article on horse-racing. Horse racing is a disgrace.

http://www.mailonsunday.co.uk/pages/
live/articles/news/news.html?in_article_id=559221&in_page_id=1770

Posted by: Antonio | May 4, 2008 02:35 PM

I hope all the people in the stands and who watched the race on tv enjoyed watching that poor horse run herself to death for their amusement and financial benefits.

Posted by: Kelley | May 4, 2008 02:43 PM

I am not a peta member or an animal rights activist. As a matter of fact, I am a guy who loves to watch sports and eat meat. However, I was shocked and dismayed after watching the Kentucky Derby. Minutes before the race, I noticed how small the feet and ankles of the horses were. I heard them speaking of Big Brown's weak ankle's. I also thought back to the Barbaro incident. Once I learned of Eight Belles accident and her ultimate fate, I was disgusted with horse racing all together. The site of the multimillion dollar owners in suits, all the pompous women in large hats, and the whole celebratory atmosphere..for what? It was all at the expense of the horses who do not benefit one bit from their hard work. The 2008 derby really opened my eyes, and I imagine it opened the eyes of other average all american joe's who love to watch sports.

Posted by: Ryan | May 4, 2008 02:54 PM

I'm so upset over the senseless death of Eight Bells that I can't seem to stop crying. I don't understand why we keep repeating history. Remember Ruffian, the Filly that raced to her death in 1975. If we know that young horses bones aren't fully developed and can't handle the stress of galloping at excessive speed, then why do we let them race? Thank you PETA for taking action!

Posted by: Amy Catalano | May 4, 2008 02:57 PM

Stop the races!!Why do we still need animals to suffer for SPORT? Horses are not born to run , they are whipped to run over and over again.

Posted by: Mary | May 4, 2008 03:04 PM

Stop the horse racing

Posted by: Cindy Brown | May 4, 2008 03:11 PM

The racing world is built on the bodies of horses like Eight Belles. Stuffed with drugs, beaten and abused, killed or tossed away when they don't make the cut (like the dogfighters do with their castoff pit bulls)

They overbreed in huge numbers, and that is why the racing world supports slaughterhouses, the last round of torture before they die.

THAT is what happens to MOST horses in the racing world. And no one gets to see it. It is all kept hidden from the losers that put money on these rigged races.

Posted by: kelly | May 4, 2008 03:23 PM

How awful!!! I am so sad about this!! I want this greedy, despicable jockey brought up on charges!! Scum of the earth!!

Posted by: shea77 | May 4, 2008 03:38 PM

I live in Louisville and I loathe the Derby. When all of my co-workers ask why I'm not attending any of the Derby events, I try to educate them about the cruelty of the horse racing industry. Although I hate to see animals suffer or die, with more of these horse deaths in the public view, maybe the Derby will start to be recognized as the cruel celebration that it truly is.

Posted by: Becca | May 4, 2008 03:59 PM

Truly a sickening spectacle. It grieves me deeply to think of all the racing fans who think nothing of the tormented lives these race horses are forced to endure, only whether they make a few bucks off their suffering. This "sport" -- although couched in legend and fabulous welath -- is absolutely on par with dog fighting, cock fighting, and bull fighting. All are vestiges of an earlier, inhumane culture. Anyone who partakes in them deserves jail time and needs an immediate soul transplant.

Posted by: Ron | May 4, 2008 04:06 PM

spectators and owners at horse races aren't animal lovers ---- they're money lovers!!

Posted by: bill | May 4, 2008 04:09 PM

My family has been involved in the racing industry for many years, and I have been exposed to it from a tender age. I watched the Kentucky Derby last night surrounded by friends and family, and felt their shock, as well as the racing world's, engulf me when Eight Belles broke down. My heart goes out to all of her connections, who cared for this filly deeply and made sure she had the best of everything throughout her short life.
I respect PETA's objectives and their desire to make the world a better place for animals. However, I feel that further research needs to be done on the part of this organization. To compare horse racing to dog fighting is not only hurtful, it is downright wrong. If you watched the pre-race footage, you would have seen Larry Jones, the trainer of Eight Belles, working his filly on the track in the days leading up to the Derby. You would have heard him call her sweetheart, seen him stroke her neck. The love for this filly was tangible, even through the television screen. She was in no way a cash cow. She was his reason for getting up in the morning, his livelihood, a piece of his soul.
My family operates at a defecit of hundreds of thousands of dollars. They have never made a profit off their horses since they started their business in 1999. While making a profit would be nice, it is in no way the sole purpose. If a 2500 dollar claimer with no racing talent needs surgery, or therapy, or simply a break, they get it. I know every horse's name, color, sire, dam, markings, personality. I love them with all my heart.
36,000 thoroughbreds are born in the United States every year, simply for the purpose of racing. If you succeeded in your ultimate goal of outlawing horse racing, you would deprive the world of these wonderful animals. I agree that horses are delicate, and attention needs to be paid to racing surfaces. Why not support the installation of Polytrack surfaces across the US? Why not support equine research and hospitals? To say that there is some cruelty existing in the industry, therefore we should get rid of it is as ignorant as saying since there are some cruel pet owners we should outlaw them. If more attention was paid to promoting safety in horse racing, a compromise could be reached. A sport that began long ago can continue to be appreciated, and the majesty of these animal's passion and athleticism can continue to be showcased.
Thanks for reading this.
PS. To demand the suspension of Mr. Saez, who was simply doing his job and is probably heartbroken, is like rubbing salt in wounds. Have a heart, and focus on the real problems.

Posted by: Kaitlin | May 4, 2008 04:29 PM

As a physician I can tell you this horse was probably pumped full of steroids which seriously weakens bones. One front leg fracture would make me question the use of steroids but BOTH legs fractured, I have no doubt. Peta, please make sure this death is investigated and a proper autopsy is performed.

Posted by: michelle bisutti,MD | May 4, 2008 04:33 PM

How can we stop the tragedy of horse racing? I have lived in Louisville (the home of the Kentucky Derby) my whole life. I have never supported horse racing, nor will I ever understand the "sport" that defines my hometown. It is PURE GREED. The news stations and papers here were at least "kind" enough not to show any close-up photos of Eight Belles lying on the ground (as the PETA site does). And the horse was blocked from the crowd and cameras shortly after she fell. Nonetheless, how can we stop this filthy, gluttonous, disgusting "sport" when it is supported and driven by so much money?

Posted by: Donna | May 4, 2008 04:56 PM

I stopped watching horse racing after Ruffian lost her life racing Foolish Pleasure. I made the mistake of getting involved again in 2006 and again swore off horse racing. This is a cruel sport and everyone responsible for Eight Belle's death yesterday should be punished. That horse pushed herself beyond her limits because she was being beaten by that brute. She gave her life in fear. Everyone involved horse racing should be ashamed of themselves and should reconsider what they call entertainment.

Posted by: Kelly | May 4, 2008 05:00 PM

I admire those who tend to the horses, that is a hard job. Like the greyhounds, these animals are used for sport and money. Bred to have long limbs that break easily. Why euthanize a horse who, some of us would adopt in a heartbeat? I don't understand it.

Posted by: Donna Restel | May 4, 2008 05:04 PM

I find it incredibly hard to believe that the article isn't concerned AT ALL about what happened to the rider. Are we to believe that he had it coming? That's certainly what it sounds like.

When we focus on the human implications of this "sport", it might just make people listen. A horse died. Why are you forgetting that the rider could have been seriously injured? Both the horse's death and the lack of concern about human beings make me very conflicted about PETA.

Posted by: Dante Fulci | May 4, 2008 05:07 PM

Thank you Peta! Keep up the good fight.

Stop horse and dog racing!

Posted by: Hadley | May 4, 2008 05:15 PM

I'm not sure how many of you have been around horses before...obviously not too many. I have been around horses my whole life. From helping with the foaling process to death. Horses are born to run and love to run...not because they are whipped, but because its in their blood. Turn any horse out into a pasture field and watch them run around...you can see this in a foal that is just hours old and not affected by a human influence. Race horses are like any other athlete and go through training to prevent things like this from happening. Its very unfortunate and nobody wants to see a horse go down. If you want to get rid of horse racing you might as well get rid of all sports all together.

Posted by: Abby | May 4, 2008 05:22 PM

"Eight Belles's legs didn't break because they abuse them, they broke because they were weak."

While that may be true, it doesn't make the human action of forcing a horse to run a race RIGHT. Knowing that horses naturally have weak ankles should be MORE THAN ENOUGH of a reason to simply stop this "sport." But why stop when the responsible parties are feeling no physical pain other than the pain of losing $?

Maybe the owners, trainers, jockeys should try walking around with broken ankles. Maybe then, they'd know how it feels for these horses.

Create awareness. Stop the racing.

Posted by: Kelly | May 4, 2008 05:32 PM

While what hppened to this filly was unfortunate, this kind of thing happens. You can not tell that the horse is injured until after the event because of adrenaline, even the horse doesen't know to inform you until it dies off. My family races standard bred horses (kart pullers) and unttil you have go down and dirty in these kind of sports you really wouldn't understand. They are bred for these sports what do you thing they would they say if you told them they could not serve their porpose. It may be like spending thousands on school and then being told you were useless in your chosen field. You "rights activists" speak of what you don't understand. Thoses of us that don't make 6 figures a year have a different outlook than those who make enough to do nothing but run their mouths. Horses are very exspensive the eat hundreds of dollars in food a month not to mention vet visits and other costly things. The way I see it outside of cats and dogs if it can't help pay for itself it doesn't need to be around me.

Posted by: Ryan McGuire | May 4, 2008 05:44 PM

you know i think it's a shame that it's okay to race a horse until he collapse and die but michael vick had to do time for a crime he didn't commit. peta was front and center at his trial but tell me this do you say anything about the horses??? first it was barbaro now another horse. oh but that's okay. go figure.......

Posted by: wendy | May 4, 2008 05:47 PM

What a shame! I can't understand the attraction to this "sport". Real men won't have anything to do with it.

Posted by: Gerald Kastner | May 4, 2008 05:48 PM

Funny how PETA got behind the Horse Slaughter Bill as well. It was supposed to ban all horse slaughter in the United States in effect shutting down both slaughter houses that were overseen for humane practices by the USDA.

What happened when they closed?

1. All horses are now shipped to Mexico and Canada where no governmental organization oversees the humane treatment in the Slaughterhouses.

2.Horses are being starved because owners that can’t afford feed or let go in the wild to eventually die.

Way to think things through PETA.

Posted by: AEG2010 | May 4, 2008 05:48 PM

P.S. 90% of us are good people who do not drug, beat, abuse, or try to hurt our animals in any way. We love them and treat them with the resect they deserve. My mother has been doing race horses for over 20 years she has never druged or abused her horses.

Posted by: Ryan McGuire | May 4, 2008 05:50 PM

This is absolutely unbelievable. Comparing horse racing to dogfighting, what a joke. I felt so horrible for that filly yesterday and I think it is tragic what happened but it was a fluke accident. She ran her heart out and gave everything she had. It was no ones fault what happened. She had to be put down because she could not survive and infection set in immediately. These trainers and jockeys love these horses, they are family members to them. I grew up around thoroughbreds and a lot of my friend's families owned horses. They are treated like kings and queens. This is totally disgraceful what I have read on here. What a shame.

Posted by: ryan | May 4, 2008 05:53 PM

I think its real bullshit that they did that. Ok yeah she must of been suffering but it would of healed. Instead of killing her, just let her stay at the farm and never race again. I think the whole sport whould be banned for the crulity it puts horses through for our so-called "entertainment"

Posted by: Dakota | May 4, 2008 05:57 PM

People should also contact Hillary Clinton and reprimand her for sending Chelsea to the race to bet on the filly in some sort of morbid symbolic political gesture. If Clinton is going to be our next president she should set a better example.

Posted by: John1123 | May 4, 2008 06:10 PM

I hate people who torture animals, they will rot in hell

Posted by: RC | May 4, 2008 06:15 PM

I was deeply saddened when I heard about the events that occured at the Kentucky Derby. I've never been interested in horse races, nor had any interest in horses. However, seeing the pictures of Eight Belles down on the ground and in agony completely broke my heart. The pain in her eyes deeply touched me and never realized the kind of pain and torture these animals go through just so these humans can continue to get even richer. I can't imagine doing to anything that would harm my beloved Chihuahua, so if these people claim to love these animals so much, why do they put them through this kind of torture? Pure hypocracy!

Posted by: CLAUDIA | May 4, 2008 06:16 PM

You all need to get a clue. The large majority of people posting comments here probably have never even seen a horse race in their lives. The call for Saez to be suspended is laughable at best. The jockey had nothing do with the unfortunate breakdown of a horse. You really are completely naive or clueless to think that if the horse had any problems before the race was finished. In the case of an injury such as the kind 8 Belles suffered, the horse wouldnt have made it near the finish line, nor in the manner it did, ears perked. Stick to boycotting KFC and complaining about celebs wearing fur and stay out of horse racing. You really just sound dumb attempting to do so.

Posted by: Pete | May 4, 2008 06:24 PM

There you go again. Don't make statements of fact such as the horse must have been in pain from having broken or been about to break its ankles prior to the finish line but the jockey whipped the horse so hard that she continued to race. How could you possibly know that to be the case? Isn't it just as plausible if not more so that the horse broke its ankles after the race? I agree with some of your goals such as improving the surface conditions and banning whips but the organization's credibility is hurt by making outlandish claims.

Posted by: James Bordonaro | May 4, 2008 06:33 PM

Eight Bells is just another horse sacrificed to the greed involved in all horse racing. Anyone who purports to love an animal does not race it as racing is inherently dangerous with a mature animal. Since a horse does not mature until 5 years of age getting on it's back at 1, racing at 2 and running for the Derby at 3 years of age does not qualify as "love" of a horse. Love of money and prestige is the reality of racing.

Posted by: Marceles | May 4, 2008 06:39 PM

For centuries we as humans have marveled at the beauty, strength, agility and athleticism of thoroughbred race horses. They selflessly give their heart and soul every time they run while the people connected with them make thousands of dollars. Their racing careers are often over by the tender age of three when they still have "baby" teeth and unless they have desired bloodlines they are often disposed of to the meat market.

The debate in North America continues over whether it is breeding or the racing surface that breaks them down so fast. However, no one ever mentions the fact that they start training and even racing at the tender age of two before they have completely grown and developed or that their training consists of galloping the same way round the track every day with no variety of surfaces or routine to build strength making their physical development uneven and one-sided. The fact that all thoroughbreds no matter what their actual birth date have a birthday on January 1st compromises them even more.

The "big" races including the Triple Crowns of both Canada and the USA, are for three year olds. If the minimum age to start racing was lifted and all the big races held off until the age of four or five, how many fewer horses would we destroy.

We have changed the minimum age of gymnasts being allowed to compete at the Olympics because of the damage done to so many young bodies when training so intensely at a young age why don't we do the same for horses.

It would mean that the return on investment would be delayed but even a horse with impeccable breeding is not a sure winner. How often do financial advisors suggest investing in a race horse as an investment strategy?

There will always be accidents and injuries as in any physical activity but perhaps given more time, these equine athletes would have a better chance to avoid injury due to undue stress and strain on undeveloped bodies.

Christine Richardson,

Posted by: Christine Richardson | May 4, 2008 06:46 PM

I'm against horse racing. Particully, in the US horses forced to race are only babies; 2 & 3 yrs old. Horses don't mature fully until 6 yrs old. As a result, their legs & feet bones are very fragile! I'd like to see the owners have toddlers run around the track with a jockey strapped to their backs!

Posted by: Greta Farnsworth | May 4, 2008 06:54 PM

To Liz Morrisey...

What exactly is your point?

You take PETA to task for stating that Eight Belles was put down in the equine ambulance and not "in front of thousands of people"

Huh?

The only FACT that needs to be straight is that horse racing is a cruel sport.

Tthousands of people who witnessed this horse get whipped across a finish line to her death has all the facts they need.

Posted by: liz | May 4, 2008 06:54 PM

PETA is misguided by holding only the jockey accountable for Eight Belles breakdown. OWNERS and then trainers and then riders are all responsible for the well-being of the horse. While I don't like the "sport", for now it will continue and since so many horses have died in the past couple years racing and in 3-day eventing, we need to look at why these owners and trainers are missing the cues that these horses are under stress. Who is writing the checks and pushing the trainers and riders who then push the horses beyond their limits? Horses don't quit on you. They don't know how to quit. It's up to their human stewards to look out for their best interests, and lately they have been missing the signs that these horses who have dired are being pushed beyond their limits.

Posted by: Christee | May 4, 2008 06:56 PM

It makes me want to puke to see all of these rich weasel celebrities show up at events like the Kentucky Derby, flaunting their wealth and making way over the top fashion statements. For what? to see a horse pushed to their limits and placed under extreme duress? It's got bad karma written all over it so sooner or later they will get theirs.

Posted by: Steve Acevedo | May 4, 2008 06:56 PM

Thank you Peta for asking for the suspension and investigation of Eight Belles jockey. I wouldn't be surprised if the investiga-
tion would reveal that he was negligent in his handling of this beautiful animal. THANK YOU PETA FOR BEING THERE FOR EIGHT BELLES!

Posted by: Pat | May 4, 2008 07:16 PM

How sick and sad. I wonder if politics had anything to do with it? I'm still upset over this tragedy. Let's stop this insane horse racing industry

Posted by: beachbum | May 4, 2008 07:19 PM

I just wonder: If Eight Belles could talk, what was that poor horse saying or thinking as she ran down that final stretch?

Posted by: Maria Lee | May 4, 2008 07:19 PM

Lets ban Football, Basketball, Soccer, Baseball every time someone gets hurt. Come off of it already. This stuff happens. I've seen how the horses are treated. And honestly, they are probably treated better than the household pets you love so dearly. Why not stop the clubbing of seals in Canada, and worry about this small stuff later?

Posted by: Edmund | May 4, 2008 07:20 PM

Sam, Thank you for your comments about the care you give to the horses. Some of the comments on here made me cry. Please please let's make sure we know the truth before we spread such sad exagerations. I, however, believe that the jockey was inexperienced and his quest for success took priority over Eight Belles safety. What about the owners responsibility and accountability, too?

Posted by: Pat | May 4, 2008 07:25 PM

PETA should not be asking "why did the jockey not feel anything during the ride?" Are you just assuming that the jockey was at fault? The trainers are pushing these horses too hard, the owners are in it for the fame and money. Don't shoot the messenger because you don't like the message. Do you think that a man/woman who aspires to be a jockey will starve themselves,forgo a family life, get up at 2am everyday for years to warm up,nurture, exercise, care for horses for little pay that they have NO financial interest in, move around the country,no recognition without a win because they hate horses! WAKE UP. Acknowledge the sadness in this tragedy, teach others to care for every living thing. Make your mark that way to leave on the earth.

Posted by: Docbarbaby | May 4, 2008 07:26 PM

You've got to be kidding-you actually want to hold the jockey responsible?...because he "WHIPPED THE HORSE UNMERCILESSLY?"
I'm sure my comments won't make it to this site, as reasonable a counterpoint though it is..

Um, first, it's not a whip, like you see in bad pirate and slave movies, it's a crop. And I wouldn't call it "merciless whipping", it's a signal to the horse, but even if you do away with it, which wouldn't be a big deal, it just gives you guys something to focus on...holding the jockey responsible is freakin' ridiculous.

She collapsed a quarter mile after the finish.. that can be blamed on breeding much more than an individual...
they aren't beating them mercilessly around the track-watch the race- almost the whole thing is run with these guys standing on the reigns trying to hold them back.

It's a tragic day, no doubt, but don't cast blame in the wrong place.

Posted by: kim hickman | May 4, 2008 07:28 PM

If you are going to ban animals from competing in sports, then you might as well ban the Olympics, since human beings are considered to be animals as well.

Posted by: axxis | May 4, 2008 07:41 PM

And a PS to my previous comment-I don't agree with everything PETA stands for-I'm not a vegetarian and my friends have sled dogs- but I applaude the work done to bring to light true animal abuses worldwide, as in the article on China's fur industry.

Posted by: kim hickman | May 4, 2008 07:43 PM

When I heard the race was this weekend I said a prayer for these poor helpless beautiful animals. I knew something was going to happen again. This has to be stopped. SHE HAD TO HAVE BEEN INJURED BEFORE THE RACE FINISHED AND THAT GUY JUST KEPT BEATING HER!! WHAT IS WRONG WITH THESE PEOPLE! RIP Beautiful Lady. You're with the Lord now and I hope you are rubbing noses with Barbaro and running and playing together. There was another horse hurt this past week and is given a 50/50 chance. We have to stop all animal racing.

Posted by: lauren | May 4, 2008 07:44 PM

I'm just an average person; I love animals. I followed the Barbaro saga constantly; prayed, donated money to his hospital and laughed watching him get well, bounce up and down in his brace and come back to his original life usinhg 4 legs. I hung his picture at my desk and an editorial with Barbaro in heaven running on all four healthy legs. For Christmas my husband gave me a memorabilia frame with several photos of Barbaro. I was shattered when he died; the will to live gone from his eyes. Barbaro was my hero; all heart, determination and love without condition for his handlers and doctors.

Yesterday I watched the derby with trepidation. All I could think of was Barbaro. When I heard a filly was running I was excited. One for the girls. When I saw her down I went into shock; I went into my bedroom and cried for a half hour. I watched the replay to see the bravest filly in the world attempt to overtake Big Brown; I wanted to see her in all her glory one last time.

As of this, I have made overnight decisions...I will NEVER AGAIN watch or condone a horse race, a rodeo, a horseshow or any other "show" like Greyhound racing that casts aside animals after they can't win, THAT FORCES ANIMALS TO DO SOMETHING THEY WOULDN'T NATURALLY DO ON THEIR OWN.

I hope others will join me. It takes you to make these insane sports continue.

Rest in peace Eight Belles. We love you.

Posted by: NS | May 4, 2008 07:46 PM

I normally don't get involved in PETA activities. But, after reading on MSNBC that PETA was the only agency trying to do something about the awful slaughter of Eight Belles, I applaud you and urge you on. Horse racing has to end! Certainly, betting has to come to an end. I don't care how much money they make! Pushing and whipping a horse when she is clearly already hurting is a disgrace! I am not what you would call an "animal rights activist" I am not even really political. But, this was just too much! STOP THE SALUGHTER NOW! MAKE THE ABUSER PAY! I am so disgusted. When will this grabage end?

Posted by: Bob Cabana | May 4, 2008 07:48 PM

I do not mind horse racing just like I do not mind marathon runners, though I would do it. I have 2 questions.
Are the jockeys US citizens?

In the prerace coverage the Filly never was trained to stop racing. that is a trainer thing not a jockey issue. The Filly bucked a bunch before th race like Barbaro did. Maybe we need to really look at this equine action..

Posted by: seaby | May 4, 2008 07:49 PM

How long did they make that poor Barbaro suffer? They kept trying to repair his leg then finally put the poor fella out of his misery. But it went on for months.

That's exactly what I thought of when I heard of Eight Belles' fate. At least she didn't suffer.

I watched the Derby only up to them leading the horses to the starting stalls. I saw them being led up and just marveled in their grace and beauty.

She was a beautiful, beautiful horse. Gorgeous. I am not a horse person either. But she stood out for me as a beautiful animal.

Such a shame. I hope that something will be done to spare other horses her tragic fate. I pray she did not die in vain.

Posted by: Tamara | May 4, 2008 07:51 PM

I had no idea that these horrors existed in the racing world. I know that this incident has had a profound effect on me. Thank you PETA for taking a stand.

Cindy Creel

Posted by: Cindy Creel | May 4, 2008 08:01 PM

I think you people are harsh peta should not ask to supend eight bells jockey. He did nothing wrong. I love horse racing. And thease thoroughbreds are bred to race. and this was an accident. But I will say that they should make artificial tracks mandatory.

Posted by: Alex | May 4, 2008 08:03 PM

Are you all kidding me? Horse racing is not inhumane at all. Your alls ignorance about the sport is only shown more with these comments. As a horse owner I cannot begin to tell you the love I have for all the horses I own and have ever owned. And that love does not stop with just the trainer. To watch the way a horse and jockey bond is truly special. And are you seriously comparing horse racing to dogfighting? That is just disgusting to even think about. The only similarities between those two things is that there is money gambled. Before you go bashing horse racing, why don't you try to get some facts instead of getting all of these stupid ideas and trying to cause an uproar so you can sleep soundly at night. Seriously, grow up.

Posted by: Jason | May 4, 2008 08:04 PM

I just wanted to say when I heard of this I got goosebumps - its a shame that a beautiful animal was whipped to death while everyone stood around and partyed for the winner - this sport should be stopped - cock fighting is illegal and the owners of the birds get fined or jailed for abuse - why shouldn't the owners and jockeys of these horses.

Posted by: Kathy Steinz | May 4, 2008 08:04 PM

Shame on the jockey for beating this horse just to cross the finish line. I detest this blood sport and everyone associated with it. Eight Belles you're the hero. You gave your life and they made a buck off of your pain and suffering. Shame on them.

Posted by: Linda Glandt | May 4, 2008 08:10 PM

As a person who has studied animals in particular throughbreds, I always find it hard when an animal especially one as majestic as Eight Belles is euthanized. As it was commented earlier, throughbreds do suffer more injuries than other horses, however they were bred for racing. The grooms, trainers and jockeys don't overtly abuse these animals because without these horses they would be out of a job.
Additionally, the throughbred injury does an excellent job of controlling the breeding program, to keep over-population to a minimal. Eight Belles death was a tragedy, however it is considered to be a freak accident. The likelyhood of breaking both cannon bones is unheard of. Most throughbred injuries are related to tendon problem, and small non-lifethreating fractures. Horses in general are constructed to have problems, and that is all horses, trainers work with race horses to minimalize the chance of serious injury.
I think that it is sad that a tragedy like this brings down a barrage of hateful letters, when this event outcome should be considered a tragedy.

Posted by: Dawn | May 4, 2008 08:13 PM

What happened at the Kentucky Derby on Saturday was tragic, there is no question about this. This blog and many of the comments in response to it, however, display an ignorance of the Kentucky Derby, the horses, and the people involved. What has been stated is true, "Kentucky loves their horses" and its much more than gambling. Many of you, the blogger included, have referenced isolated incidents (however factually inaccurate) to support your zeal for PETA's cause. Ethical treatment of animals is near to my heart, but what has taken place in this situation is an exhibition of overactive zeal with little regard for truth. Eight Belles died and that certainly was tragic, but the blogger and his/her supporters have merely used the death as a bully pulpit of deceit and actually shown disrespect to the horse and the people that did "love" her and treat her "ethically". Horse racing=dogfighting? This is just one more example of why PETA's basic cause is overshadowed and destroyed by sensationalist zealots. If it makes you sleep better to know you shun horse racing then fine. Just know that there are people still losing sleep over the passing of Eight Belles. They are the ones that actually "cared" for her and "love" horse racing.

Posted by: Matt Hendrickson | May 4, 2008 08:17 PM

Seriously?!

You should be informed before making statements like this. This makes you sound ill-informed and downright silly.

These horses are treated with GREAT CARE. They are multi-million animals and to think that they want them mistreated is crazy.

When they are "whipped" they are struck on the hind-quarters with the top of the whip (near the jockeys hand) so that it doesn't sting the horse and that is one of the toughest parts of their muscular body. This is done because if you actually startled the horse with a "sting" it could cause a misstep and break thier stride. So the horse was not "mercilessly" whipped.

Obviously those that are making ridiculous statements don't live in Kentucky... These horses live in million dollar "barns". They are treat VERY WELL!! Baths, massages, training, the best foods and medicine are routine for these animals daily. After retirement it isn't much different as then they are put into their own paddock... while the training and messages may not be as routine the other stuff still is for 2 reasons. The owners generally have an emotional attachment and they are breed frequently. (not a bad gig if you ask me!)

Yesterday was tragic. God made thier cannon bone about the size of human arm. When these 1200lb animals run on that it creates about 10,000psi of pressure. Eight belles hurt the legs slowing down, a freak accident that just can't be explained.

You should keep your focus on greyhound racing... these people love the animals and have forgotten more than you will ever know. You should be supporting these people not bashing them. Delve deeper before making ill-informed statements. The jockeys are treat worse than the animals.

Posted by: common sense | May 4, 2008 08:23 PM

I know that you have good intentions, but you have obviously not done your homework on the issue of horse racing. To compare it to dog fighting is very ignorant. The two are not comparable. That is propaganda being flung about. Horse racing is not like bull fighting, cock fighting, dog fighting, etc etc etc. Like another poster said, horses, their owners, trainers, and jockeys have a very close relationship. I would venture to say it is closer than any dog/cat/any other cuddly animal is to their owner. It is such a special relationship. To let your emotions over a dead animal take you to the point of ranting about a suspension of the jockey displays a lack of knowledge and self-control. If you are going to suspend Gabriel Saez, then you're going to have to suspend every jockey on Earth for doing the same thing. I'm sure that your ultimate goal is to rid the world of the "cruel" sport of horse racing and kill the passion that many people have for these animals and their majesty. I think they would rather die doing something they love with those they love, bringing joy to fans, than dying of old age at a ranch somewhere. No matter what you say, Eight Belles is going to go down in lore and talked about for years to come. "A Filly that beat 18 of the boys in the Kentucky Derby." That's something to be proud of. If you are going to humanize animals the way that PETA does, then why don't you give them the same measures of a successful life that we give humans. If you did that, then you can't get anymore successful than what happened Saturday evening.

I think that your time can be better spent elsewhere. Like saving dolphins trapped in tuna nets. Why don't you guys complain about the tuna trapped in the tuna nets? You guys only want to save the CUTE animals!

Posted by: Kyle | May 4, 2008 08:24 PM

Unfortunately this is yet another example of an innocent animal being sacrificed to satisfy human greed. Human greed is the root of all evil and is the direct cause of the slaughter of the beautiful innocent animals on this earth. Shame on anyone who would call Horse Racing a "sport".

Posted by: Mike G | May 4, 2008 08:27 PM

I am a horse racing fan but have had growing doubts about the sport because of the injuries to the horses. I came here to see if you had anything insightful to say about what happened to Eight Belles, but unfortunately I'm not getting much out of what I'm reading here. Blaming the jockey and trying to get him suspended is a ploy that I just don't respect at all. The horse finished strong and looked fine after the race until she broke down, and there is no evidence that the jockey could have done anything different to prevent her from getting hurt. I'm sure the jockey feels terrible about what happened. Getting him suspended is going to do absolutely nothing to remedy the inherent problems with horse racing.

Posted by: Mary | May 4, 2008 08:31 PM

While I love horses, and I feel for this horse, I think PETA is making something out of nothing here.

The jockey was just doing his job. Jockeys whip horses. Jockeys cannot feel when a horse's legs are about to break. Jockeys do not have ESP.

Horse racing is one of the oldest sports in the world. It's not going anywhere.

ACCIDENTS happen to animals and humans.

That's all this was. Don't blow it up into something else just to further your cause.

Posted by: Bob | May 4, 2008 08:31 PM

Posted by Horse Lover on PETA forums (and absolutely spot on):

It is amazing that a group will use a horrific incident to further their goals and political ideals.

Yes is it a tragedy this horse died. She was a magnificent creature. To turn a tragedy into a political statement is at least as bad of a situation.

Horses have been bred and used by mankind as a method of transportation for scores of centuries. And the racing of horses has been part of human culture for as long as men and horses have been together.

With regards to this particular incident, it had nothing to do with the jockey "allowed to whip the horses mercilessly". as the PETA release stated. This was one of two things - a tragic accident or a physiological problem Eight Belles had with her front legs.

I have been around horses my whole life. I have trained horses for horse shows in both beauty (halter) competitions as well as the riding classes where the talent of the horse and the rider work together. In all that time and experience I know one thing about horses - when a leg goes bad, they are in BIG trouble. A large part of this is due to the physiology or horses. In order for blood flow to return from the legs, it requires muscle movement. If they cant move their legs, the blood doesn't return to the heart and they soon start loosing the muscles in the legs due to lack of oxygen. This horse could not possibly have run for neatly an eighth of a mile after the race on two fractured ankles. When they broke, she went down.

Was this due to the fact she was on a track? Possibly but not necessarily. If this was due to a soft spot on the track (which would have had to be several feet long as the two front hoofs of a horse hit a fair distance from each other when at a canter or gallop)then this could have been a cause of the incident. If that is the case, It is ani accident. Trajic, yes. But we dont call to suspend people for accidents all the time like is being done in this case.

There is at least as much a chance this was due to an issue she had with her bones or ankles. She was previously in several races and showed no issue in those (that I know of). She was a trained athlete and it would have been obvious if she had issues with these ankles. That leads me to believe she may have had a bone issue. Once again, a tragic issue but not one for grandstanding.

It just amazes me that the cause of this incident hasn't even been stated and yet PETA immediately makes a grandstand case about it. I love animals and have ALWAYS treated them with love and respect. This incident, however, just proves to me why PETA is a group whose leaders need to check on reality.

Posted by: rathernotsay | May 4, 2008 08:32 PM

This is so devastating. I cannot stop thinking about that beautiful filly. I keep looking at her picture in the paper and can't imagine the pain. These horses are being bred to be super-horses, and they are not. I am sick of fancy hats and mint juleps and Kentucky Governors who praise the derby organizers. This must stop. This is not a way to honor an animal on the first Saturday in May.

Posted by: Rita | May 4, 2008 08:32 PM

The death of Eight Belles is a heartbreak...Everyone from little children to full grown adults are still crying over the loss of an animal that only tried her best to please humans...and look what happened to her.
I don't judge anyone else. I don't believe one person at the races wanted to lose that horse. However, it has happened before. If we dont learn from our mistakes, then we are doomed to repeat them. The officials must show integrity here and find out why this is happening and CHANGE the conditions that cause it.
Let us ALL honor Eight Belles by making her the very last horse to suffer in this unjust way! Let her death be the catalyst to END this horror!

Posted by: Mer | May 4, 2008 08:33 PM

IGNORANT PEOPLE:

Quote "How many more horses have to die at the Kentucky Derby?" No horse has broken down at the Derby since 1974. 30 years, 1 fatality, wow what a terrible track record. LEARN THE FACTS!!!!!

Posted by: Jeff W. | May 4, 2008 08:45 PM

I agree wholeheartedly with all your comments, and am relieved to hear that PETA is calling for the suspension of the jockey who STOOD UP after the wire. He is a first-time Derby rider to start with, and the right side of the televised shot clearly showed a forward shadow of his arms outstretched over his head, after the wire. He was quoted by AP as to the events that unfolded within seconds.
This is not Nascar.
Any driver going at full speed does not LET GO OF THE WHEEL, wonder why it feels, " funny," and slam on brakes.
He wrecked his ride, plain and simple. Tragic and horrible!I support PETA's crucial efforts to suspend the jockey and further investigate this so-called ," sport." It mimics slavery, in my opinion. I will not watch the next tarnished jewel of the Triple Crown on the 17th. I will not watch Big Brown and other poor horses whipped for profit. It is a disgusting practice fueled by greed; the only thing separating it from dog-fights are that deaths are not required, and should be unacceptable. May the public outrage and PETA bring this horrid practice to an end before another horse has to die on national television!

Posted by: One Disgusted RN | May 4, 2008 08:51 PM

Barbaro, Eight Belles only two of the most recent. What of those that are destroyed or negelcted because they did not have the speed th towners hoped for or what of Ferdinand - a great horse who ended up in a slaughterhouse in Japan?? No - I do not watch these races anymore nor will I allow them to be watched in my home.

Posted by: Karin S | May 4, 2008 08:51 PM

The only other forum that may get to the owners are either the Fox Hill website or the IHEA LLC, "corporation" which owns Big Brown. Look at that one---what a joke! A corporation. I cannot even stand to look at the cocky, IQ-of-his-shoe-size Rick Dutrow (trainer of Big Brown). It would behoove him to go back to his Barn 1 to sleep again and ponder what life would be like if Big Brown is also on the ground in pain only to be euthanized at the Preakness. Time for him to take an introspective look at himself just like he did in his drug rehab program?
I doubt that he would be bringing any fresh grass like the Jacksons did for Barbaro.
I doubt he would have the support on the UPenn website
nor his "corporation" would show up lest to pay a bill.
At least classy Michael Matz and the Jacksons seemed like decent human beings, albeit I have witnessed my last horse race.
Enough of these senseless tragedies. Enough.

I cannot watch another race.
Albeit just a horrible tragedy for that beautiful filly, but what better a venue than the Kentucky Derby for the nation and much of the world to have watched this. When will this end?

Posted by: D | May 4, 2008 08:55 PM

i am so sick about this,any "sport"using animals should be banned!some say horses like to race,yes but i am sure they don't like to be whipped!!! end the cruelty!love animals,i quess to some,money is more important than the welfare of animals! sad,stop the whipping!please,,

Posted by: kristen | May 4, 2008 08:59 PM

I watch in shock as this tragedy unfolded.
What a vulgar display of greed and indifference towards the suffering of this wonderful horse.
One minute she was alive and healthy and the next minute, after she made a lot of people alot of money, she was hurt and killed. ...and the party continued on.

How shameful does it get...fancy hats and all...

Posted by: Sharron | May 4, 2008 09:00 PM

Valerie Cohen's post hit the nail right on the head. You can't expect reasonable people to listen to you when you alter a story to fit your cause. Yes, both the Preakness and Kentucky Derby were directly involved in the death of both animals, but neither event went down the way PETA portrays. Your organization lives and dies by "The ends justify the means," mentality, which fools only the foolish. I could take horse racing or leave it, but if you want to make real changes for these animals you might want to seek more support than the minority of animal's rights extremists (note the extremists) in this country. Nobody likes what happened on Saturday, and I'd love to see a safer environment for these animals, but everytime PETA goes in guns a'blazin nothing ever changes. Horse racing is here to stay, find the middle ground.

Posted by: Christopher Gunnare | May 4, 2008 09:04 PM

Yes it is terrible that this animal died. However, for one of the posters here to call for the death of the jockey, trainer and owners as some type of restitution is just plain ignorant. As far as calling for the banning of the Kentucky Derby, good luck. This event has been going on for 134 years with the unfortunate deaths of several horses during that time. Prattling on about this will get you all nowhere. There is far to much money involved. Unfortunate as it may seem, this "sport" will continue on for another 134 years or longer.

Posted by: Bob Arrow | May 4, 2008 09:08 PM

It is all about the MONEY, MONEY, MONEY. Simle as that!!!! Eight Belles should never had died. She was just a baby. I hope that charges will be brought up to the jockey who kept whipping her right to the very end. DISGUSTING AND BARBARIC. I hope those people who were there and had parties got their money worth.

Eight Belles, I hope you are running pain free with Barbaro and all of your friends who faced the same fate as you!!

Posted by: Victoria Jean | May 4, 2008 09:10 PM

The comment posted proposing a boycott of the State of Kentucky needs the most serious consideration. A boycott would create media follow-ups on this issue, if it was disseminated through PETA's media connections, because PETA has a recognized ability to motivate publicity around an issue it stands up for.

If every animal rights activist in the world stopped supporting Kentucky and the derby's corporate sponsors, it may not make a great dent in financial bottomlines, especially in the derby revenues, but it would send an important message nonetheless. That is that PETA and the world's animal rights activists are going to take a moral stand against this sport for the sake of all the horses who have ever been and continue to be abused by it.

I believe PETA's calls for specific changes in its immediate response to Eight Belles' death undermined the moral stand that must be made, of stopping horse racing because it is an inherently cruel sport.
Thelist of changes may have been seen by the organization as a compromise needed because of the overwhelming odds that the sport will cease, still I believe that the public moral outrage from such a wide-viewing audience needed to taken of advantage. To give this sport's supporters room to wiggle at this moment in time does nothing to take advantage of a moment in history that called for total outrage with a threated worldwide boycott. In Belle's memory and for all horses still imprisoned miserably, PETA could have "Seized the Day."

Posted by: susan yacenda | May 4, 2008 09:19 PM

This is crazy. Not the factthe horse had to die but the fact he people actually care more about animals than people. I think I want to start an organization called EHOTWW pronounced "AGH" it means Everybody Has Opinoins Thats What's Wrong.

Posted by: crazy man | May 4, 2008 09:21 PM

I wish that some of you folks could open your eyes a bit to the reality of life. That was about a 2,000 lb. horse laying out there on that track, that couldn't stand up on its own because of its two broken ankles. What is there to do? Pick her up on your back and carry is off to a barn to hang there in a sling for a slim chance to ever walk again? The vet himself said that this was one of the freakiest accidents that he had seen, and that it was unheard of for this to happen. Give the industry a break, nothing they did killed this animal. Nature did.

Posted by: coreyky | May 4, 2008 09:25 PM

What took place during this year's Kentucky Derby was a complete tragedy. The mistreatment of these animals has been ignored for way too long. I am aquainted with the authors (Shane Sellers and Tricia Psarreas) of a recent autobiography titled Freedom's Rein. This book speaks about owners(one imparticular) and the fact that it is often known that some of these horses are injured and in no condition to be racing well before anything steps foot on the track. It shouldn't have taken something like this for people to stand up and take notice. Now that it has though, it is bound time to make a change!

Posted by: Sheryl | May 4, 2008 09:34 PM

Thank you PETA for speaking up........I'm devestated by the inhumaness of man.......the latest w/this beautiful horse.......we should ban animal races altogether........my heart is so heavy. Thanks for your courage in speaking out.

Posted by: Miriam Scott | May 4, 2008 09:41 PM

I was so upset and repulsed by what happened to Eight Bells that we immediately left the Derby party we were attending. I will never, ever watch another Kentucky Derby.

Posted by: jeanne walpole | May 4, 2008 09:43 PM

Quote from above-
How many more horses have to die at the Kentucky Derby before this barbaric spectacle is banised from our culture? We all heard the horror story about the race yesterday. Stop supporting this event. Look at the sponsors who have invested financial support to the derby. Don't buy thier products! Write to the Govenor of Kentucky to include KY Senators. Boycott Kentucky. Tourism dollars are big business. They will get the message when it hits their bottom line. We can make a difference so that Eight Belles did not die in vain.
Posted by: Rennie Barnaba

This is the first horse to ever die in the Kentucky Derby since it started in 1875, and as the longest running horse race ever I would say that means its a pretty rare event...

Surely as Animal guardians you have something better to do then boycott a state based on a horse race. Then again you would surely have to boycott Maryland, New York, Florida, California and all the rest that enjoy these events.

Maybe instead you should ban highways as there is roadkill about every mile or so. Or would that inconvience you?

Its a horse- and while I was very sad to see the events unfold after the race, it is comical that many of the people on this board are so upset when millions of animals are killed a year in this country alone. In Peta's eyes should all horse riding be banned? Even for police officers? And then we should ban sniffer dogs even though they find drugs and explosives? I am pretty sure Peta values animals over humans which is fine and your right, but man is it misguided.

And calling Hillary culpable to Eight Belles death is ignorant. Then all the people on this borad who watched it happen are just as guilty as she. If PETA wants to win thier cause, at least present the argument with intelligence instead of emotion fervor. It makes the whole group look as bad as religious fanatics.

Posted by: Elmer | May 4, 2008 09:50 PM

Someone need's to look at the farrier's that fitted both Barbaro and Eight Belles shoes to see if they were also at fault.. These two event's are much too similiar & unnecessary..

I read a comment about Eight Belles on another blog from someone that saw her exercising several day's prior to this Saturday & they said she was showing sign's of leg weakness during the exercising.. So the trainer is also at fault here..

Horse racing used to be the King of Sports now it is all about gambling.. If you want a horse to lose you bribe the trainer or the jockey or the horses handler's, or worse..

And how can Bo Derek claim to be supporting the cause of horse slaughter when she attended the Kentucky Derby and saw this poor horse suffer and get put down.. What an oxymoron that is..

My uncle was a jockey many years ago & rode for Sunny Jim Fitzsimmon's he was killed during a race when the horse stumbled & threw my uncle who got stepped on & crushed by the horse..

People & animal's shouldn't get killed or maimed during a sport event because then it is no longer a sport..

As I watched this race on tv Saturday & saw Eight Belles go down I knew what was going to happen to her & was so very angry at her trainer & the jockey.. The jockey I know could tell she was having a problem since the rider always know's their horse..

Posted by: NanaPat | May 4, 2008 09:52 PM

I would like to make a point known that I have a horse off the track. He is wonderful. Although there are some flaws in horseracing (steroids, abuse, ect) not all track owners are bad. I worked for one; he loved his horses and would never put them in harms way. Most horses on the track love their job; running is natural for them. Accidents happen; it's unfortunate for the death of
Eight Belles, but I've seen many good horses put down; it's a fact of life. She was not "run to death" as the fall happened AFTER the race.

Please, learn your facts before you try to get a jockey suspended for doing nothing wrong.

Barbaro had an infection that could not be treated which lead to his death.

p.s. the "whips" that are used do not actually hurt the horse. It's the sound that startles them and encourages them to run. It's not cruelty. I carry one with me everytime I ride.

Posted by: Shannon | May 4, 2008 09:58 PM

You know, I been around horses for 32 years, have owned and loved them...and I have worked for vets in the past. Eight Belles probably had some sort of injury in those ankles and I will PUT MONEY ON IT that they did a procedure called "blocking" - to simplify - it numbs the nerves so the horse can run. And, if it breaks down after, they don't care, because the horse has served it's purpose. You would be surprised how often that happens. It makes me SICK - I quit working for vets, and reported that vet and the owners when I left. My fiance bought my latest horse for me, and she was off the track - at the first bit of injury, at least her trainer pulled her off, and sold her to him, instead of choosing to abuse her. I am happy to say, she is sound, and loved. Not all trainers are heartless people... But, if they blocked her and ran her, she would have had the similar fate of Eight Belles. God bless her.

Posted by: Kelli | May 4, 2008 09:59 PM

There is so much ignorance on display in this blog it's unbelievable. I won't bother to point it all out, you'll keep repeating the same incorrect facts.

Posted by: Steve Elliott | May 4, 2008 10:02 PM

Sam, you may have to work a hard day to earn your wages, but you CHOSE to do that kind of work. Eight Belles did not have a choice. At least you are still alive today. You weren't the one to sustain broken legs all for human "entertainment". You weren't the one to get killed when you were of no use to your owners.

Gabriella, you said "a mile and a quarter isn't hard for the horses to run. Eight Belles's legs didn't break because they abuse them, they broke because they were weak." Your comments are horrific! So now it's the horse's fault for having weak bones?????? And I guess the whipping part somehow isn't abuse either... WTF?

Posted by: Michele | May 4, 2008 10:19 PM

Last night I looked for a place to post a comment. I couldn't believe PETA didn't have something to say. I posted on the ASPCAsite so I at least could sleep. Anyone who really believes these horses have an inate need to run as fast as possible with another animal on their back that whips them to run faster, on such tiny ankles, has such a distorted view of why we are put on this planet in the first place, that years of continued evolution will not make a difference. Perhaps it is the rediculous wearing of the hats that couse some brain function to be squeezed off. I am so tired of the folly of 'humanity'.

Posted by: nursiebear | May 4, 2008 10:21 PM

My rebuttal is directed to Sam, the horse groomer. Your hard work and dedication to your line of work is admiral. However, by your own calculations of the hours you work and your $400 weekly check, this supposed ethical and humane industry is not even paying you the minimum wage. Sadly, for the horses, they receive even less compensation and risk their lives day in and day out. Any industry that uses animals as a form of entertainment and monetary gain and does not even pay their dedicated groomers a living wage should be banned, embarrassed and criminally prosecuted.

Posted by: Ken | May 4, 2008 10:30 PM

You all need to get it together. Animals are here for human use. Regardless of how much you all want to complain about how animals are treated, guess what, it's called LIFE. Animals are not here to be treated as humans. They have no soul, they don't think, therefore, they are an inferior species, hence why humans use them for work, food, etc. That's how it works, and if you don't like it, guess what, nothing's going to change. Deal with it. I've been a farmer for 28 years. Without animals, we wouldn't survive. Whether it be food, plow animals, etc., we wouldn't survive without them. And it's not because we treat them like people. They're too stupid to be people, therefore, that's why they end up being food somewhere. If you can't handle that, eat a bullet because you're too stupid to be a human.

Posted by: Matt | May 4, 2008 10:32 PM

Dear Peta,

Race horses are treated like Kings and Queens. I response, they run like stock-cars. Horses do fall, and although it is sad, it happens. The owners cry, because over the 3 years that they have gotten to know the horse, they lost a friend. I live in Kentucky and there are many race horse farms. I have met many owners, trainers, and jockeys. All who care about the horses.

I attended the Kentucky Derby. When the horse went down he was holding the horse along with the owner who was rubbing its head. This showed how much they cared.

Now for the people who dont want to cash there tickets won with eight belles, they are just giving more money to Churchill Downs by not cashing it. So if you have a ticket CASH IT.

Finally, if PETA investigated the race horse retirement farms, they would wish they lived there themselves. Horses get tons of space to run around all day and play with other horses. The stalls are very nice and well kept and they are treated like household pets.

So to conclude. Race horses are paid back for what they do and they are treated like Kings and Queens.

Posted by: Josh | May 4, 2008 10:33 PM

I, unlike many of you, applaud the euthanization of Eight Belles. I bet a tremendous amount of money for him to win and he only placed? He should have been put down regardless of condition following that poor finish. Thank you.

Posted by: Wayne Gregskee | May 4, 2008 10:34 PM

Hey, look it is not the jockeys fault that Eight Belles broke her legs. Horses running on that tough dirt can get hurt very easily. Also when that happens it is all part of God's plan. Yes it may be very very sad but guess what nobody will ever know how that happend and it is so stupid to blame someone if you don't even know how it happened!!! It was a hard loss but... once again you cannot blame someone if you have no idea who it was! I am very angrey with your choice. The jockey did not break the horses legs just by whipping them. This is what I would tell that Jockey," You should fight because most of us know (including me) that it is not your fault that Eight Belles broke her legs!" I hope that the person who is charging the jockey is reading this because THIS IS THE TRUTH!

Posted by: not telling | May 4, 2008 10:40 PM

I am glad to see that PETA is taking on this issue. I was so saddened to see that this horse was killed. She was killed only because she could no longer race. Sure, her wounds could heal in time with care and nursing, but being a race horse, her owner had no longer a use for her. This is shameful and abusive.

Posted by: Jim | May 4, 2008 10:42 PM

Everyone attending or watching the Kentucky Derby is guilty to some degree of putting Eight Belles in an early grave. What a snobbish uppity "sport" that is no more than a smug display of wealth, animal abuse & greed by money grubbing horse owners & gamblers.

When are humans going to have enough empathy for the so called "lesser species" & stop the exploitation of voiceless victims.

Posted by: Gina | May 4, 2008 10:44 PM

I am not a member of PETA but now intend to become one. PETA's call to sanction the rider and owners of Eight Belles is right and just. My whole family is appalled by the horrible tragedy at Churchill Downs which never should have happened if the owners had made the obviously correct choices in the first place. Shame on you for putting your profit above the welfare of a beautiful animal.

Posted by: phyllis (filly) hawkins | May 4, 2008 10:55 PM

I understand that peta members are very passionate about the cause. I get it. What I don't get are the comments that say that the owners, trainers, and jockeys should be "killed the same way the horses died". I mean seriously? This shows you value the life of an animal more than a human.
I am very sad that she died. It is tragic. Eight Belles did not die racing. She was galloping as she would if she were in a field. The jockey was not whipping her when she fell.
I am sure that no one who is insulting the jockey, owner, trainer etc have ever had a chance to ride a beauty like Eight Bells. But for anyone who has had the opportunity to ride a race horse, this is what they live for. The same way my lab loves to swim, the horses love to run. That is what they want. The trainers (as a whole) treat these horses better than they treat themselves. As for the groomer who left the comment, a applaude you. Stand up for your profession. Stand up for the horses. What does PETA want to do with these beauties, leave them to pasture? These horses are much better off being treated as royality than being set off to pasture. Living in the horse capital, I know these barns and stables are much better than my own new house. Just get a clue. If you are going to comment to the media, know what you are speaking of. Barbaro was not put down at a race, he died later. And Eight Belles was humanily put down out of view of anyone but her loving owners, not infront of millions of viewers.
You are making your organization look worse than you already do by reporting inaccurate facts. Once again. get a clue.

Posted by: Katie | May 4, 2008 10:56 PM

First, for the record let me state that I am an animal lover and dog owner (although that is probably against what PETA stands for). I also find horses to be beautiful, majestic creatures created by God. But...

"whipping poor Eight Belles mercilessly as she came down the final stretch, no doubt in agony from two front legs that were about to snap."

Wow...little dramatic don't you think? Yeah, no doubt in agony from two front legs that were about to snap...hindsight is 20/20, come on. Amateur journalism and melodrama at its finest! That's the problem with all you activist types. You have no concept of reality and you blow everything out of proportion?. I find it ironic how this organization (and the people who support it) value the life of an animal over that of a human. You are more concerned about what happened to the horse than the jockey riding it who could have been seriously injured when the horse went down. And then there are the consummate bozos like Mary who hope that someone beats the jockey within inches of his life one day. Unreal. Double standards there Mary or are you seriously more concerned about the rights of animals than those of people?

While I was sad to see the tragic events of Saturday unfold as they did, I still came away with a grip on reality. Professional athletes (horses included) are at risk of serious injury every time they step out on the field or court, but you don't hear people calling for the heads of owners, general managers and coaches when a young basketball player collapses and dies after practice. Injuries and deaths happen...it is unfortunate that this happened on national TV because all it did was get all of the animals rights activists in an uproar over a rare incident.

For those of you who didn't watch or listen to what was said...many of the commentators and even the on site veterinarian said that they had never seen a horse break both of its ankles during a gallop...for all we know the horse could have had an aneurysm and collapsed. But leave it to PETA to condemn the jockey and dramatize the whole thing in the hopes of furthering your activist agenda.

Posted by: Ritt77 | May 4, 2008 11:01 PM

In regards to AJ Kreider's comments regarding the differences between horse racing and dog fighting, I would argue that he is incorrect on a major point. The goal in most dog fighting is not violence but money, just as in horse racing. The major similarity between the two "sports" is that the animals are used as a means to an end. Does the pain of breaking two ankles change depending on whether or not the owners want to see the animal hurt? The fact that horse racing spectators may not want to see the animals hurt does not make a difference - horses still are being abused and the pain that they experience is not lessened because their owners are supposedly nicer or more caring than dog fighters.

Posted by: Meredith | May 4, 2008 11:10 PM

I think that what made me most sick about this is that right after the horse went down the camera went to the owners of Big Brown. They were laughing and screaming and so happy. Even if they weren't aware that there was a problem, the camera crews were. They instantly started to downplay what was happening on the track. They sure weren't showing the people who were crying and concerned. That poor horse lay in the dirt agonized, trying to get back up while people held her down so they could put her down forever. And the pictures of the jockey make me sick. He just gets up and walks off almost immediately. Did he have no feelings at all for what that animal had just given up for him? The owner stated that he knew that the horse had run the race of it's life. Is that supposed to make anyone feel better about it? I've heard race fans coming up with so many stupid excuses, saying that those horses WANT to run. I'm sure they do enjoy running but I doubt they would keep running if they felt the horrible pain of their ankles getting ready to break. That horse had no choice. She was being whipped non stop at the end and no doubt kept going to make the humans around her happy and rich. These animals are bred for speed not a safe, sturdy body. It just makes me ill. I have lived in Kentucky most of my life and have been around horses since I was a little girl. Horses are intelligent and feel pain just like us. I think they deserve our respect and these owners should respect the animals that are lining their pockets. And the jockey should be suspended and lose his money from this race. From what I could see he showed very little regret about what happened and that makes me sick.

Posted by: Brooke Montgomery | May 4, 2008 11:11 PM

IT WAS A TRADGEDY AND A TERRIBLE ACCIDENT. THATS ALL IT WAS AN FREAK ACCIDENT.THERE WAS NOTHING THE JOCKEY COULD HAVE DONE DIFFERENT TO SAVE EIGHT BELLS FROM GOING DOWN. WHEN HE SAID HE FELT HER RUNNING FUNNY THE DAMAGE WAS DONE AND SHE WENT DOWN.

Posted by: KEITH WEDDLE | May 4, 2008 11:28 PM

Ok, ive seen alot of stuff on this wall but really, the bottom line is a racehorse is not a human no matter how much you all want them to be. They are animals, and for the person who said the jockey, owner, and trainer should be killed that thought is just ridiculous. How about you start caring more about the thousands of humans dieing each day and stop crying about animals. I do think animals should be treated well, but give me a break, children are dieing of aids in africa as I type.

Posted by: Brandon | May 4, 2008 11:38 PM

I wonder about steroid abuse. I know that some steroids can make bones extremely brittle.

Posted by: Anna | May 4, 2008 11:40 PM

I have a question: IF the sport is so obviously heinous and this was know to all posting here BEFORE the race, why was anyone that's posting here watching the race!??! If it's so cruel, why were you watching? My guess, either it's not as cruel as you'd like to now conveniently make out or you weren't watching, but are now jumping on attention bandwagon along with PETA.

By the way, I support PETA in most everything they do. I just step off when they seek out publicity at the expense of a tragic event.

Posted by: Dan | May 4, 2008 11:40 PM

I live across the river from where the Kentucky Derby is ran. I was sick to my stomach at what happened to Eight Belles. I will never watch horse racing again. It was a cruel act of greed that killed that poor horse and I have never liked whipping the horses. Maybe the jokes should be whipped instead.

Posted by: Fran | May 4, 2008 11:41 PM

I understand that PETA does not approve of horse racing. Fair enough - call for a ban. But to make this a personal vendetta against a 20 year old rookie jockey is inexcusable. These jockeys put their life on the line every time they saddle up. Do you know of ANY other profession where an ambulance follows you around as you work ? No jockey on earth would continue to ride an injured animal, and thereby put his or her own life at grave risk. This is an absolutely absurd letter and complaint and greatly discredits your cause. Come out against this sport all you want - but do not demonize a very young human competitor.

Posted by: Mary | May 4, 2008 11:41 PM

"Approve" my comment or not, at least this may mean Someone will read it.
I wholeheartedly agree with the previous `commenter' (one who was apparently "approved") who urged you to improve the impact of your articles by first getting all your facts straight.
Further, I take exception (as should those in your direct line of fire) to your published comment that, "clearly", this poor animal was injured before the finish of the race.
I find that to be in very bad taste, unfounded and inflammatory. You may well love and defend animals, .. as do I... but IF any of you closely viewed the tapes, you sure must not know much about horses.

Posted by: Richard A Stonefeld | May 4, 2008 11:44 PM

As far as I am concerned they should ban horse racing. It's all about money. What a tragic thing to happen to such a beautiful horse. I am so glad that PETA is trying to get an investigation into this matter.

Posted by: Cathy | May 4, 2008 11:51 PM

All of you are ridiculous. Racing is an elegant sport, and if it sometimes leads to tragedies, its part of the business. Human athletes are injured, sometimes killed, but their coaches aren't called murderers. Thoroughbreds are amazing athletes with tremendous hearts. And to the person who said horses are not born to run, you are an idiot and obviously do not know anything about horses. These animals love to run, and it is crazy to think that anything will be changed due to your uneducated whining.

Posted by: Racing Fan | May 4, 2008 11:52 PM

Seriously? are all of you stupid!
the euthinization of the filly racehorse was agreeably humanely killed but the idea that a horse cannot run on a dirt track without breaking something and therefore needs a softer surface is insane. the fact that the jockey was whipping the horse too hard is crap because the whips are made soft enough that a horse is not grievously harmed just startled.plus jockeys like Saez care about their horses they understand that they are partners in the race. geez besides if you cut out what you call a dirty business and no better than dogfighting is a gambling game and what would that gamble against if you destroy it people racing..... .. are you insane that would be even less humane.

Posted by: Malcom Stringer | May 4, 2008 11:53 PM

Hey Valarie, isn't this about the animals, not about race issues? I don't care if you are black, white, or purple for that matter animal abuse is animal abuse and should be punished? Are you saying that the African-American football player should go unpunished because some White horse owner does?? I don't understand this. Horse racing and dog fighting are both terribly cruel and we can only hope that those humans who participate are all punished, no matter what they look like.

Posted by: nora | May 4, 2008 11:56 PM

Seriously everyone here saying this is violent and Saez needs to be suspended is an idiot. The horses are very well taken care of so before you buy into peta propaganda go see how the horses live. Spend a day walking around the backside of the track to see the lengths all those hard working people go through to make sure the horses are happy and healthy. Also when you do go see these horses please report back here and tell us how many whip marks you see from the so called merciless whipping. My guess is you wont see any. It's extremely unfortunate and no one wants to see an animal die like this but no one is at fault here.

Posted by: Anonymous | May 4, 2008 11:58 PM

IT was very visible that Eight Belles tried to pull up in mid-stretch, but the jockey righted her head and forced her to finish the race, which is probably what cost her her life. the point where she pulled up she may have only had a single fracture.

Posted by: don gross | May 4, 2008 11:58 PM

Each one of you is more ignorant then the rest. Stopping thinking with your hearts and use the minds god gave you. Its not the jockeys fault. Its not cruel. They mostly wind up pulling. There are no more killing houses in the US and now there are a glut of horses people cant afford to take care of.

Posted by: Peter | May 4, 2008 11:58 PM

It was so horrible that even the TV race coverage had to avoid showing it.

Posted by: Pablo | May 5, 2008 12:02 AM

I grew up in the horse racing industry and all of you are lunatics. These horses are treated better than you and better than your teachers taught you how to spell. The fillie's name is Eight Belles. If you want to write about it...get the spelling correct. Saez did nothing wrong. It was a sad thing, but it happens. I find it hard to believe that anybody never broke a bone. If you have.....did you complain because you're human????

Posted by: Carol | May 5, 2008 12:06 AM

I have not always agreed with PETA....but on this issue I am completely "on board."

Beyond the abuse of the filly to keep her running after she was injured....the scum jockey walked away to let her be killed. The horse ran her heart and legs out for him.....Why couldn't he hold her head in his lap as she died?

And WHY did the ignorant corporate maggots from YUM Brands...(KFC etc) not even have the decency to express regrets for the death to the owners, viewers and people who loved "Eight Belles?"

And as to the pompous owner of Big Brown...the winner who also ignored the death.......may he some day soon suffer true heartbreak as well.

The whole situation is disgusting!!!

Posted by: Al | May 5, 2008 12:10 AM

I don't understand why everyone is blaming the jockey. A co-worker of mine takes in "retired" horses--so not ALL are put down after their racing career. She knows quite a bit about horse racing practices & told me beloved Eight Belles (more than likely) NEVER even felt her ankles because.....their hooves are FROZE before racing!! How inhumane is this practice?! Why isn't PETA, Dateline or another investigative team looking in to stopping this!!!!!!!!
Will miss your beauty, Eight Belles. May God protect you now.

Posted by: Karen | May 5, 2008 12:11 AM

Check the early portion of the race video. I watched the race and early on one horse whinnied as though in pain. It's head was held back and it was in the center of the crush of the pack vying for position. I have not seen that portion of the race broadcast again. I do not know if this was Eight Belles as I have not been able to locate the video again.

Posted by: p.j. | May 5, 2008 12:17 AM

I never, ever watch horse racing because I think it is torture & because I am so afraid I will witness a horse going down when they are being whipped to run as fast as they can. I believe the sweet nature of horses & their love to please is taken advantage of to the hilt.

It also disgusts me to see how women agonize over what hat they will wear to watch horses being tortured.

Posted by: Mary Halm | May 5, 2008 12:17 AM

Yes Eight Belles was a tragedy. But to so blindly dismiss every single person in that industry with such a horrible generalization is abhorrent and hardly better than those you stand to accuse.
I'm willing to bet the majority of you have never even stopped to perhaps even examine this in person, instead feeding off whatever PETA or any other associates you may have.
And to those of us who enjoy watching the horses race? I watch to enjoy nature at work, to see the swift movements of the horses and to absorb their essence. I weep when horses stumble, fall and are put down and I assure you if they feel realer than anything you may have ever experienced. Walk a mile in their shoes before you accuse.

Those in glass houses should not cast stones.

Posted by: Kayne Risk | May 5, 2008 12:17 AM

I am so so hurt over this torture. I cannot watch the news for fear of the footage being aired. There has to be something that can be done to prevent this in the future. What can I do to help get this guy suspended. This was clearly no regard for a life. Personally I wish they would ban horseracing events like this all together.

Posted by: river | May 5, 2008 12:21 AM

My golly you "animal rights" folks are around the bend.

How many of you have ever worked with and cared for a horse? How many have even seen the splendor many horses at the level of the Derby live in?

One thing about race horses is just about every one of them loves to run.

Ifthey didn't love i they wouldn't be doing it.

they would be sold off as high dollar show horses, or better yet pets.

try concentrating on real problems.

Ask any jockey.

Posted by: Doug | May 5, 2008 12:24 AM

If you notice, Eight Belle's jockey was running her out in deep soil/sand. She had no ability to raise her hooves out beyond hock height and that I think is what caused the breaks in her front ankles. I DO think it was the jockey's fault for racing her so far out from the track that is relatively hard pack, but it is also the fault of the Derby Track Owner themselves for allowing this area to be open to the horses after running flat out. You try running from fairly hard ground to loose pack up to a foot deep. A horses hooves are small and narrow and sink straight down, it is like trying to run in deep snow. Her ankles never made it up out of the loose soil before her body over shot her legs with inertia. I believe the horses love to run and are born to run. I am not saying that we should ban racing (yes we should ban whips) but the fault lies with the track and the jockey in this case.

Posted by: Sharyn | May 5, 2008 12:26 AM

Guess who endorsed racing Eight Bells... President wanna be Hilary Clinton. She had her daughter place a bet on her and everything. Keep that in mind when you are all placing your votes.

Posted by: W.G. | May 5, 2008 12:31 AM

Horse racing is garbage. It's unbelievable how some people can justify it by saying that they make sure the horses are happy all the time, but then take the horse out and BEAT it into submission which can eventually lead it to its death. Would anybody say that a dog breeder who cares for his pit bulls all the time except during fights is a good person?? NO. He raises his dogs to fight and then will discard them once he's done with them, JUST LIKE HORSE RACING.

Posted by: Chase | May 5, 2008 12:31 AM

I do not watch the Kentucky Derby for this very reason. It is upsetting for me to see the jockeys whip these beautiful horses and I am always afraid that the horses will be injured. The Derby should be banned forever. It us unhumane.

Sue

Posted by: sue french | May 5, 2008 12:39 AM

If you notice, Eight Belle's jockey was running her out in deep soil/sand. She had no ability to raise her hooves out beyond hock height and that I think is what caused the breaks in her front ankles. I DO think it was the jockey's fault for racing her so far out from the track that is relatively hard pack, but it is also the fault of the Derby Track Owner themselves for allowing this area to be open to the horses after running flat out. You try running from fairly hard ground to loose pack up to a foot deep. A horses hooves are small and narrow and sink straight down, it is like trying to run in deep snow. Her ankles never made it up out of the loose soil before her body over shot her legs with inertia. I believe the horses love to run and are born to run. I am not saying that we should ban racing (yes we should ban whips) but the fault lies with the track and the jockey in this case. I was also very disgusted with the owners of the winner Big Brown. They showed no sympathy what-so-ever towards the loss of a great race horse.

Posted by: Sharyn | May 5, 2008 12:39 AM

I would like to start by saying that we people say that horse raceing is just about money clearly knows nothing about the sport. These greedy owners as they are called love these horses and they become part of the family. I like how 1 horse I'll be it 1 too many dies do to a accident and now it is painted as happening all the time, I too asure you to the fact that the tears shed were real. How dare people compare dog fighting were the dogs are trained to fight to the death against another dog and horse racing were that is not even in the same game is completly ignoraint. The football player who was found gulity in a court of law for what he did had dogs killed just becuase they lost a fight, I have never ever heard of a horse being put down just because they lost a race. Had this been a human that died do to a accident which is what this was a accident I think it would be a good bet ( so to speek ) that PETA could careless. Also as far as horse's being sold to Europe for food that is one of the sillest comments I have ever read, when a horse is finished with it's racing carrer they are put out to stud and that is a far cry from being sold for food. I also like how it is made out that these horse's are whipped with out mercy and treated just so bad. I wish people would just stop. As far as the jockeys not careing about these horse's is just completly wrong and again people just need to get a clue.

Posted by: Tim | May 5, 2008 12:40 AM

It says that my comment needs to be approved, which means that the hopefully someone of importance will read this. First, I want to know if ANY of you have ever ridden a horse, or know anything about them. The comment that says horses aren't born to run is absolutely false. Horses are a prime example of evolution, look it up, they are built to run, and run fast. Secondly, on Eight Belles, I am truly sad about what happened to her, I cried when I saw it. She was spectacular, the only reason I watched the Derby was to see how she would do against the boys and she did amazingly well. Unfortunalty she was put down due to injuries that would have been impossible to live with. But it was NOT the jockeys fault. If anyone has ever fractured a bone, they know that it is nothing that one feels coming. Secondly, please look up the video of the vet and her trainer, Larry Jones speaking about the incident. If you had you would notice that one, this was a freak accident that has never occurred before, and two that she not only beat 18 boys in the field, she did it with flying colors and had her ears forward (which means she was happy and alert for all of you that know nothing yet speak like you do) after crossing the finish line. In fact she was cooling down, like one would after a workout, when the accident happened. It is an extremely unfortunate event but it is not under any circumstances the jockeys fault.

One more thing. Race horses aren't sold to slaughter houses, they are brought to auctions, where many times they are bought by people like me who then retrain them to be show horses in different disciplines. But sometimes they are, in fact, bought by slaughterhouses. There are many people who are already working to help these horses out, by rescuing and adopting them. If you'd like to help DONATE SOME MONEY. I know just from reading the crap on here none of you actually ride so I can't even say give them a home.

I am going to finish up my rant by saying that I am signing that petition, I do think that the racing industry needs to set some limits. But stop whining about ending horse-racing, because all those horses that are in it now will be the first ones up at auction, and then potentially to the slaughterhouse.

look it up...PLEASE

Posted by: Erica Ruzhinsky | May 5, 2008 12:43 AM

How cruel is our world? I have to admit that every first Saturday in May, I have watched the Derby. I watched May 3rd, and as word was given that Eight Belles was euthanized due to untreatable injuries, I cried. I cried and between the tears, I felt anger grow. The anger was towards the money grubbing culture that perpetuates this brutal sport. The anger was also towards myself, because I have been a (passive) participant. How selfish, how very selfish. As I have read for the suspension of the jockey, I have to say that I immediately became suspicious when the announcers stated that this jockey immediately left the scene. I realized he probably didn't leave out of devastation, but suspected perhaps guilt. I vowed from that second I would NEVER again be even a passive participant of the barbaric and inhumane sport. I was especially appalled at the on-scene report from the track vet who so matter-of-factly reported Eight Belle's death. She ran the race of her life and for what????? It was the greed of the people who feed on this most cruel sport...if you can even call it a sport.
Let's not forget the greyhounds, as well. I have never been to the PETA website, but I have to tell you that I will do everything in my power to spread the word regarding the blatant disregard for life that horse racing and other senseless acts of greed have placed gentle and innocent animals in the hands of money-grubbing people. I am sickened by this, and it haunts me still to see such a beautiful animal/soul lying on the ground, helpless and used and the nonchalant attitude of everyone involved. I am so ashamed of some of our so-called humans.

Posted by: SunnyDay | May 5, 2008 12:58 AM

I cannot bear to watch the Kentucky Derby because I am always afraid that one of the horses will be injured. It happened in 2006 and again this year. The Derby is right up there with the slaughter of seals, dogfighting, cock fighting, etc. It should be banned.

Posted by: sue | May 5, 2008 01:04 AM

We watch humans run at many track events. People train their children to be athletes from extremely young ages. Gymnastics is a perfect example of how the human body is maniulated to excell in performance. How many posting negative comments will watch footraces in the Olympic Games??? My guess is many. When it comes down to it it truly is a shame anytime a living creature has to die, but blaming the jockey for 'knowing the legs were going to snap'? They did what they could for the horse, they had multiple veterinarians check the animal and they made a decision. The fact that some are saying when the horse dies the jockey and owner should too is just pure ignorance. It is a very unfortunate situation. I cant speak for how the animals are treated, but for those who say it is all about the money, I do know 95% of all racehorses wil never earn in stakes what they cost to maintain with proper healthcare, food, shelter, etc... Please, I am saddened by the loss of this horse as you all are, but the direciton of the rage is sorely misplaced.

Posted by: benjamin | May 5, 2008 01:31 AM

Does anybody here actually know what happened?.....NO...... you all want to prosecute the jockey and the sport, where considering how many races they run it's actually fairly safe for both the animals and people who ride them. They have artifical surfaces now to make racing more safer. The game is not going anywear.There are more greyhounds that die that throughbred horses, and where is the group when a $4,000 claiming horse at Finger Lakes goes down, no we only hear from you folks on the high stage. Sad as it is, it was a freak accident, this could have happened after workout, she was happy when she crossed the finish line her ears were up and she was galloping just fine. To blame the jockey WHO DID NOTHING WRONG, is ludicris It was not his fault. And then you want you want take the owners money. DO YOU HEAR YOURSELFS??????. When PETA starts going to every track where they race horses and dogs and they even race mules in California Fairs, and starts making noise about the cheaper horses and not just the high profile ones maybe people won't come down on you so hard. There are plenty of people trying to make this game safe, it will never be 100% safe, then again nothing is.

Posted by: Justin | May 5, 2008 01:31 AM

While this is a very sad case, to suggest changing the surface that these horses run on to a softer surface is absurd. Horses, before racing, were not blessed with soft surfaces to run on. This was simply a freak occurence. The whipping played no part in the ankle break as well, so why mention it in this article. If they bleed from whipping, then that is a problem. I don't recall seeing them bleed though. Heck, they probably live a lavish lifestyle compared to an untamed horse.

Posted by: Jason | May 5, 2008 01:32 AM

SHE LOOKED LIKE A BEAUTIFUL HORSE WHO SHOULD HAVE BEEN RUNNING IN GREEN PASTURES FOR A LIFETIME...SUCH A SHAME AND SHAM...I AM THOUROUGHLY DISGUSTED BY THIS SPORT,

Posted by: CE | May 5, 2008 01:34 AM

Disgusting. . . horse racing is really no better than dogfighting.

Posted by: Eva | May 5, 2008 01:54 AM

Okay. Seriously. I am quite sad by what happened to Eight Belles too, but you guys really need to use your brains and find some real information.
This is not what the jockey "did" to this horse. It isn't as if he took a bat to her ankles.
What is more, this injury could not have been sustained during the race. she was cantering down the track after the race was over. If it had happened during the race, she would have gone down immediately.
This was a freak accident. A horse cannot run a race on 2 broken ankles. No amount of whipping can make a horse run through that bad of an injury.
I can understand your sadness, outrage, etc., but seriously. That does not give you the right to put on your blindfolds and shoot off your mouths.

Posted by: Jay | May 5, 2008 02:03 AM

I'm not sure on the full details but over here in australia if a jockey is to be seen mistreating the horse on the track they can be find by the trainer and jockey association and i believe if put to the jury can be band from riding i also know that 90+% of horse owners wont run their horse if believed not suitable meaning if they run on the chance it will injure itself it will cost less for them to scratch from the race .tracks thats you run on as fare as i know we are in nego to changing it to a new surface that dose not change no matter the weather and is 70% better for the horses and water efficent as you dont need any. im not having a go but it seems that things are done very differently over there than here

Posted by: Derek Sibson | May 5, 2008 02:05 AM

The jockey is not to blame. The whipping is not the problem. As a former horse owner, I can tell you the whip in proper hands is like a bit -- a form of communication -- not INHERENTLY cruel. From what I heard through the media the jockey is absolutely devastated and did everything he could do to pull Eight Belles up and minimize the damage. He did the same as Edgar Prado did with Barbaro. In this situation, which was unique, Eight Belles brokedown tragically and fatally after finishing the race. The industry in general is to blame. I've owned retired race horses and have been a lifelong fan of the Triple
Crown races. Last Saturday that ended -- like many have expressed, I can't stomach it all anymore. Yes, horses are injured and die in many ways, every day, but the racing industry has to wake up to the public's pain -- race horses older, there is no reason to run two and three year olds. Let these magnificent creatures mature. Breed stronger legs. Yes, there will still be freak accidents, but it comes down to this. Do you want horse racing to survive, or do you want to further sicken a public already waning to your unethical practices?

Posted by: casinocon | May 5, 2008 02:15 AM

I'm so sad for poor Eight Belles.....
Everyone, PLEASE SIGN and pass around PETA's PETITION in honor of this sweet and beautiful filly who just wouldn't stop despite the agony of crushing pain...we all owe at least our simple signature on this petition for change, in her memory.

Posted by: brian | May 5, 2008 02:24 AM

Eight Belles was NOT put down in front of the crowd; it was in an ambulance. How could you not know this?
Either admit your error and print the truth, or admit you deliberately printed a lie.

Posted by: Rutherford Lawrence | May 5, 2008 02:36 AM

This filly should have pulled up right when she crossed the wire.If you watch the replay you will see her take a bad step on the final turn, but this stupid jockey didn't even realize it.

Posted by: Norm | May 5, 2008 02:38 AM

You people at PETA need to check yourselves. Eight Belles was clearly in good spirits at the finish of the Derby. If anyone in your organization knew anything about equine mannerisms, you'd have recognised the horse's demeanor. Instead, you perpetuate the public perception that you're all a bunch of extremist whackos.

Posted by: Chip Calligan | May 5, 2008 02:42 AM

Being a big racing fan for years, I have to say, that watching this years derby was horrible and really made me and alot of people think. I am also a big animal lover but always considered these to be pampered and much respected animals, but after watching this fine lady being beat "to death" and killed as everyone celabrated was appalling and disgracfull! God Bless you Lady Belle!

Posted by: gina clements | May 5, 2008 03:20 AM

I love horses, and I like horse racing. When I was a kid, I could often be found at the harness races at the state fair. I had several neighbors who trained horses for those events, and they were treated with the utmost kindness and care. I never saw a horse injured in any kind of race, harness or riding, barring accidental falls or collisions, which can also happen on a peaceful Saturday trail ride.

I have never been a gambler, and the money involved in racing means nothing to me. To me, the important thing in any race is getting to the finish line first. Not purses, not bets won or lost, but winning, fair and square, and with respect for the horse's well being. That said, I wish I'd had a few bucks on Big Brown, whom I knew was going to win the moment I saw him. Not my first rodeo...

This, though, is something completely different than the quiet, local races I remember from childhood. These horses are bred without any regard for their health. Their legs are far too thin, nothing but skin and bones, and completely unable to heal from an injury if it occurs. They're raced far too young. They're beaten within an inch of their lives to run faster, although I was amazed to see how sparingly Big Brown's jockey used his crop - hardly at all, just a light touch in the stretch to tell him to pick it up, nothing a casual weekend rider wouldn't do. That's a fast, smart horse and a skilled jockey - he didn't need to beat him to convince him to win.

I do not advocate the end of racing, or the end of race horses. However, some rules changes are clearly in order. This has gone MUCH too far, when we have a Derby winner and a second-place filly killed in the space of 3 years. Something is VERY wrong here. The Derby needs to be run by 4 or 5 year olds, not 3 year olds, who aren't mature yet. Use of the crop needs to be seriously limited, and perhaps a change of track surface is needed as well.

I don't want to see this kind of tragedy bring an end to one of the most noble, ancient sports in the world. Greed has clearly gotten the best of these owners and jockies, to the point where extremely valuable, strong, and intelligent animals are being terribly abused, and treated as expendable.

I wept out loud when I saw Eight Belles go down, my favored horse in the race and such a lovely, spirited gal. I hope I never see anything like that again. Again, this has gone MUCH too far.

And no, I have enough experience with animals to say that there's really nothing you can do for a horse with that kind of injuries. I know some people here have suggested that perhaps she could have been saved, would have been saved if she'd been a winner, etc... Second place for a filly in a big race is as good as winning. It wasn't to be - there's nothing you can do for them. Horses' legs really don't heal when they've suffered multiple compound fractures. They just suffer longer if you try to "fix" it. Best to just put them down. All we can hope for is a more humane set of rules which prevents this sort of horror from happening again.

Posted by: Kiff | May 5, 2008 03:40 AM

The jockey is just doing the job he was hired to do. The question I want to ask is what drug was the horse on before getting onto the track. We should be questioning the owners and the vet.

Posted by: Terry Johnson | May 5, 2008 04:52 AM

It is a sad fact of racing that horses die. It is a sad fact of lif that all people and all animals die. The horse racing community loves there horses and would never mistreat their animals.

Posted by: Matt | May 5, 2008 05:02 AM

I am an ex race horse trainer, I feel that the intentions of PETA are noble and I want to help however I can. I have seen first hand what the horses actually mean to the racing industry. they are treated like money making machines and when they can't produce any more money for the owners, the horses are cast off like garbage. I was sickened to see Eight Belles break down, and I was appauled to see what was done to barbaro, that poor horses never had a chance for even a semi normal life after the derby. Something needs to be done to protect the horses even more so now.

Posted by: dominick manzi | May 5, 2008 05:38 AM

Priscilla,

You are right. You are crazy! To say that people should be killed if an animal dies certainly qualifies you as crazy and shows that people who support PETA come off as crazies too. You need a reality check.

Posted by: Ben Walker | May 5, 2008 06:14 AM

I was so sad to hear about the euthanasia of Eight Bells that I cried. What a shame. She was so bad off, they couldn't even put her out to pasture. ARRRRGGGHHHHH!

Posted by: Beverly | May 5, 2008 06:30 AM

Why should the Kentucky Derby's tragedy with the untimely death of Eight Belles come as any shock? Incidents such as this occur daily across this country to many horses. In reality, these horses are the lucky ones since very few thoroughbreds escape pain and suffering throughout their careers.
Is is ironic that thousands of these silent and noble gladiators are sent out into the ring each day to accomodate man's pleasure and greed. Barbaro and Eight Belles perhaps will get the sympathy of the public for a short time, but their tragic fates will do nothing to change the sport. Such is compensation for two superior equine athletes that would have probably happy to have never set a hoof on any racetrack. Horse racing in America is a cruel and ruthless sport, filled with unscrupulous unsavory, selfish and uncaring people who dictate the fate of innocent animals.
Most race horses live in a form of bondage, exploited for profit with no hope of justice from their owners. Those who make such loud protests for other animals totally ignore the suffering of race horses. Small fur-bearing animlas will suffer once from human abuse, but not the race horse. Inhumane treatment and suffering is a major part of racing from which very few horses escape. Why is there no voice for them?
Racing doesn't promote the welfare of the horse. It promotes the profit to the state, to the race tracks and those associated with the "sport," including gamblers. No one in racing cares to reveal certain truths that are part and parcel of the entire industry. The race horse themselves deserve a voice, and in all fairness to them thoroughbred racing should be banned. But it won't. Horse racing is big business-as illegal drug trafficking is a business.

Posted by: Cynthia Pace | May 5, 2008 06:37 AM

I see no problem with racing horses. I wish PETA would focus on dealing with real issues instead of making outlandish motions to end the kentucky derby. Racing horses younger than 3 is not going to end. Fight a winnable fight.

Posted by: Kevin Schiefer | May 5, 2008 06:49 AM

I write poetry, this haiku is dedicated to Eight Belles.

All Heart

Pounding down the stretch
her young legs crack, she runs on
heart leading the way.

I have spent my life arond horses, and their hearts are
bigger than them.
She was a beautiful horse, what a terrible shame to see her broken down and her
dark eyes filled with agony.
I will not forget those eyes.

Posted by: Taylor Jones | May 5, 2008 06:55 AM

The prerace show I was watching of course showed the post parade. They showed Eight Belles on a loose rein with her jockey atop. If you truly look at Eight Belles you can see she is off in the front, particularily on the right front. Once the jockey gathered up the reins she does not show as much pain.. I encourage all to take another look.

Posted by: Nancy | May 5, 2008 07:07 AM

Look, there are tricks with the hooves that are done in racing to increase stride. It creates an imbalance and breaks ankles.
You need to push for balanced hooves !!!!

Posted by: John Yaden | May 5, 2008 07:11 AM

I'd like to personally thank you PETA for starting this action campagin for Eight Belles and other horse victims of horse racing.

Eight Belles should have never been allowed to enter that type of competitive race in the first place! She was originally entered for Friday's race, and then pulled because they wanted to capture all the women's bets and have two horses in the Derby. She died all because of GREED. They should have taken her winnings and immediately donated them to the care of injured and abused race horses instead of putting it in their own pockets! An innocent animal died and they just kept celebrating! Absolutely shameful and disgusting!!!

Peta, please do all you can to bar the jockey, nail the commissioner, and even contact the govenor who claimed it was "a great racing day". A horse was killed, did no one notice?

I have told all my friends about this campaign and will do all I can to support you in the efforts to get this cruelty stopped. Thank you for what you are doing for Eight Belles and the other race horses.

Posted by: Melissa | May 5, 2008 07:15 AM

I'm still crying over poor young Eight Belles...only three years old. She deserved so much more than this.

How can any of them (owners, trainers, jockeys, those who bet and attend just to watch "for the love of horses")justify this sport especially now after watching Eight Belles be killed right in front of their own eyes at the very height of the sporting event?

This is a big wake-up call to all of those in denial about this horrid sport.

Uneducated people, time and time again, let the animals down and dissappoint those of us who do find time to educate ourselves about such real life issues.

Where is the compassion? Where's the acknowledgement of knowing right from wrong?

Horse racing is wrong. It's as simple as that. And most of those greedy people know it deep down.

Even the hired vet who was at the track Sunday said the fatigued muscle from racing then weighs heavily on the skeleton of the horse, thus shattering bones.

Right out of the track's hired vet's mouth!

Please write letters to the thoroughbred association in New York and Kentucky as well as PETA's campaign.

Let's all pray.

Posted by: lisa Montgomery | May 5, 2008 07:20 AM

Any type of animal racing at all should be banned forever in the USA. There is no reason what so ever to force an animal into captivity to run\race\fight for a living. There is no reason for the kentucky derby or others to continue to operate. The people who run the events and the trainers who abusse the helpless animals should all be put to death cause they are the ones who are cruel and need to be put down.

Posted by: Jeff Hoagland | May 5, 2008 07:22 AM

I can't believe my luck. First I won by betting "Eight Belles" would place, but then I took the "horse will die" action in Vegas at 350-1!! Thank you Kentucky Derby, I'M GOING TO DISNEYWORLD!!!

Posted by: Brad | May 5, 2008 07:26 AM

I think the monster part of this story is that horse racing is such a big business, and genetic breading of these horses makes them even more top heavy and muscular so they can race and win.
Again playing with genetics for the pleasure of humans. Not much different than giving growth hormones to the milking cow so she can produce more milk, not for her baby, but for human consumption...
These horses are much loved and treasured, but there suffering is real on the track, and like the milking cow, when the raceing horse is all used up, off to be killed, not put out to pasture....

Posted by: Holly | May 5, 2008 07:31 AM

Please stop the cruelty. What do we need to do ?

Posted by: Virginia Zakhour | May 5, 2008 07:32 AM

These people are terrible. They must have so much time on their hand training horses to no end to run fast. Maybe the should start teaching themselves to to treat animals instead if killing them. They need to end ALL horse & any other animal races.

Posted by: karla | May 5, 2008 07:33 AM

I forgot: The mare could have been saved if they had had a ambulance with a table or bed and a lift with slings to get her into it. She did not have to die due to could not stand on three legs....
That was why she was put down, she couldn't walk to the ambulance to be removed.
She could have had artificial legs and hoof, like others have been known to do. Too easy just to kill her.
That is where the issue should have been centered on not just kill the sport....
Should be concentrating on how to make it safe and good for the trainers and horses who care for each other. Look at the conditions and ages of the races for competition, that would be a great start, issues that run the little man out of the sport , along with no whip and proper humane treatment getting off the track if were injured.

Posted by: Lady76Blue | May 5, 2008 07:41 AM

It was unfortunate for that to happen (death of a horse).

I really don't think "PETA" has the athourity to ask for the suspension of any jockey. Whether a horse jockey or disc jockey. It has happened before and more than likely will happen again. In my opinion, I don't think PETA should act as judge and executioner.

It's amazing to me, how those who are most opposed, watch every second of the Derby. Indirecting fueling and hicking the television network's ratings. Providing funding (non-monetary) to the organizers of this event.

Personally, I didn't watch it nor do I care to. After the last incident (Barbaro), I care less about the sport. Not, because I feel it is inhumane, but because it was all over t.v. On new's channels, sport channels, weather channels, and even foreign news channels. I mean, it was a horse. It ran fast. It died. Even the "Pope's death." didn't get that much coverage. People remember the horse as if it was an icon of some sort an idol to the people.

People are dying each second around the world. A person's life is much more valuable than an animals. Regardless of how good or bad the person is or was.

I can understand PETA's view and opinions. But, unfortunately it is an opinion, a point of view. This world is filled with over 6 billion people. That's 6 billion opinions.

In conclusion, for those who took time to read this, thanks! I don't think it was appropriate for "PETA" to demand such an action.

Jojo G.
Thanks!

Posted by: Jojo Gonzalez | May 5, 2008 07:41 AM

Eight Belles dying doesnt make me upset, you people and your ignorance about horse racing does. Let me guess, my post won't make it because i am against all of you... shocking. I hope all of you suffer as miserable a death as Eight Belles. Oh wait... she didn't suffer because they did the human thing right away.

Posted by: Gary | May 5, 2008 07:45 AM

I wish I didn't have the burden with being in love with all living beings, including animals. When Barbero died I think I cried for the whole day on and off. I thought back then this idiotic, money driven event would discontinue along with the other idiotic events of dog racing. How can people go to an event where animals are going to be whipped into such a frappe of fear that they run like hell? The first thing I saw this morning was the scroll on Headline News about yet another horse being "put down." Why don't they call it what it is, they killed another horse. This is a very sad day, yet again. No words can express my grief for that beautiful animal and every animal on the planet which is being exploited. And before the harpies say anything, yes I am a vegetarian working toward vegan.

Posted by: jangchub | May 5, 2008 07:49 AM

This is ridiculous. You cannot assume everyone in racing is bad because SOME people in the industry have made bad, selfish decisions.

"The site of the multimillion dollar owners in suits, all the pompous women in large hats, and the whole celebratory atmosphere..for what? It was all at the expense of the horses who do not benefit one bit from their hard work."

It's the DERBY. That's what people wear to the derby. It's just what people think they're supposed to do for that one event. Go to other horse tracks, everyone there is broke.
Have you seen the pastures and the barns that these race horses live in? I guarentee you, Eight Belles did not have a miserable life. She was not denied turnout. She was not kept in her stall with no exercise. She was not improperly fed. Are you aware that horses everywhere injure themselves in turnout? What are we to do? Take their time outside away from them?

"Remember Ruffian, the Filly that raced to her death in 1975."

Ruffian propped when she spooked at birds. The sudden action is what injured her. Not the jockey, not the owner, not the trainer.

"Shame on jockey Gabriel Saez—for whipping poor Eight Belles mercilessly as she came down the final stretch, no doubt in agony from two front legs that were about to snap."

Gabriel Saez could not have known she was about to break down. I've been riding for ten years - I watched the race, and I did not see her show any sign of lameness during the race. The jockey would have a feel of his horse's gait, and he would have been instructed to pull her up immediately if she went lame. Remember Barbaro? Edgar Prado pulled him up, jumped off, and supported Barbaro's leg. Prado was the reason Barbaro was not euthanized on the track. Look for pictures, and tell me that jockey did not care for the horse. Look at the pain on his face and tell me he didn't love Barbaro.

Look at Charismatic, jockey Chris Antley was about to take the lead in the Belmont Stakes, for the Triple Crown, when Charismatic broke down. Antley somersaulted out of the saddle and caught the horse's leg before he could take another step, saving the horse. If he was a bad, selfish person, he could've raced a lame horse to the finish. But he didn't.

Again, I'm not saying there aren't problems with this industry. Some people need to be cut out of it forever. But PETA is targeting the wrong people.

PETA needs to target REAL animal abuse. I've looked up puppy mills on PETA's website, and I found one lame, uncaring paragraph about puppies being bred for profit. That's B.S. Puppy mills all over America could be stopped within one month if PETA got on it. But they don't - because then there will be nothing to whine about.

Please, stop being misinformed and overdramtic about something you've never been involved in, and about people you've never met.

Posted by: Hilary | May 5, 2008 07:50 AM

I am outraged and saddened at the tragedy of Eight Belles
I sat in disbelief after the race as the reporter announced that Eight Bells had to be euthanized.
After this shock NBC goes to celebration of the greedy winners, with everyone laughing and jumping up & down as this beautiful female champion lays dying. The lack of dignity for such a magnificent female animal astounds and disgusts me.
I had always enjoyed the Derby before because I loved looking at the beautiful horses,however, after Barbero, I was apprehensive. I will never watch again.
I am now convinced that Horse Racing is cruel and needs to be stopped

Posted by: Kathy Warner | May 5, 2008 07:54 AM

Again PETA you have no clue what the hell you're talking about. Yes the jockeys whip the horse but should you actually watch a race the only time the horse is whipped is during the last stretch of the race. And there is a penalty for over-whipping. Yes the Horse racing industry has it's issues but going after the jockey is just another grasping at straws moment for your organization. Out of the 157,570 people at churchill and millions watching on television I guarantee you that the hypocracy of PETA shows it's ugly head once again. You should really poll your supporters to find out why they were watching and betting on this disgusting sport as you call it. I'm just sayin'!!!

Posted by: Mark | May 5, 2008 07:57 AM

I knew something bad was going to happen. I was feeling torn apart on Saturday. The jockey for Eight Belles needs to be banned and the crew involved needs to be fined severely. Things need to change. Life is not just about money and power. It's not. People that think this is life are nothing more than shells.

Posted by: Michelle | May 5, 2008 08:01 AM

Barbaro,s death crushed me and now the death of Eight Bells is just as horrific. Hose race is all about money and these horses do not deserve this. Peta thanks for taking action.

Posted by: Janice | May 5, 2008 08:01 AM

The news media blasts us round the clock with silly stuff. I thought it interesting that this was swept under the table so fast. It is as if the racing industry pulled some strings so people would forget about this incident. A beautiful horse died because a bunch of rich people can't find enough to do to entertain themselves. Horse racing should be banned. Kudos to Peta for not letting this fade away like the media had intended it to do.

Posted by: Maggy Jones | May 5, 2008 08:01 AM

One issue should be looked at further. Understand that you want to take the filly down and not give her the money and place in history that she earned. Why the horse? She earned her place ...Look at the jockey or jockeys and field size. Look for the real reasons to change the sport not put a damper on her victory. Shame on you. Again, money is the issue here. Not the reasons to make it safer.

Posted by: Lady42Blue$ | May 5, 2008 08:02 AM

Let me start by saying I love PETA and ANIMALS but I think this story is getting a little out of hand. First of all it's not the jockeys fault. If you're going to blame him there's a long list of other that should be at fault. Second I agree with Gabriella Kentucky LOVES their horses and most of these horses live a better life than some people. However I do wish there was a way to fix horses legs without having to put them sleep. And last of all if they knew Big Brown had weak ankles and had been having problems why should he have even been allowed to race? To me that is far worse knowing your horse is in pain and still making them race versus a horse that you think is in perfect condition and letting them race.

Posted by: JBaker | May 5, 2008 08:04 AM

One of the things that occurred to me in this tragedy is that horses now suffer from the same kinds of difficulties that dogs have, due to selective breeding. Thoroughbreds are now bred for lighter bone structure, which makes them faster, but that structure makes them weaker, especially when they're this young. I used to love racing years ago when I didn't realize how much suffering the animals underwent. Now, I see racing as the same kind of barbaric "sport" as rodeo, or dog-racing or fox hunting. The humans may have "fun" but it's the animals who have to endure it, and suffer for it.
At the very minimum, all race tracks should have the new surfaces that are easier on the horses. The dirt tracks are the most lethal. Better yet, why not just ban racing?
I don't believe that will happen - yet - but steps could immediately be put in place to help protect the horses if they have to keep doing this.

Posted by: Susannah | May 5, 2008 08:09 AM

It is a sport and these horses are trained to race. It is a shame, but do people have the same compasion when a race car driver passes or a football star is injured? Not really, so get over it, it is life and this is what we do. This has been going on for 134 years and I hope it continues. There is nothing more that makes me ill then reading posts from people like PETA, they are just as bad or even worse.

Posted by: John | May 5, 2008 08:21 AM

Racing is when done right - a beautiful sport showing the unity of man and "beast" - I say the latter tongue in cheek so don't get offended.

Money (Gambling, Advertising, Bribes, Etc.) + Anything (Horse Racing, College Sports, Etc) = Problems (Theft, Fraud, Injury, and Death).

It is a simple truth that money is what drives the behavior that causes the pain and brutality of these wonderful animals to occur in the first place. I dare say if some of the fat asses in the stands were forced to run even a quarter of the race track we would have death on the track - and there would be such a commotion.

Racing of these animals, their training, their rearing, and care can all be regulated. If they "the fans, owners, and advertisers" want this sport to continue, then it needs to evolve just as Football, Baseball, NASCAR and others have done to protect the participants - in this case jockey and horse.

If we were to regulate this sport we would see or hear of less of these kinds of abuses and tragedies.

I only hope that regulation of the horse racing industry occurs before boxing finally gets long term care for its professional boxers!

We will see....

Posted by: John Doe | May 5, 2008 08:22 AM

Cruelty to animals is just cruelty. Anyone that will beat a horse will beat their kids, wife given the chance.

Posted by: Ted | May 5, 2008 08:23 AM

What were you people watching on Saturday? I hope that I am allowed to have an opinion on this site and to voice it.

Without giving you my prior background in the sport (which I have been inactive since the early 1990's). It was clear to most observers that the horse was fine when she crossed the finish line.

I believe that when you fully review the tape of her "after" the race it appears that she fell into a hole or rough spot in the track. So, your calls for better racing surfaces appear to be accurate. Maybe Church Hill Downs track should be investigated after this after race accident.

However, to even mention this accident with Barbaro is misleading to the casual viewer. Yes, it happened at a major race, just, different circumstances and Barbaro wasn't put down. Instead, we watched him struggle for a year and fight for his life, that in the end he lost. I think he went out the way he wanted and what he was raised for. How cruel some of you think that is.

I also believe that in the next twenty to thirty years unless the race horse industry can find a way to attract younger fans it will wrought at the fine. The average horse race fan age is about 55 the last time that I saw a report on this demographic.

And, last, but not least, to even attempt and say that there were fake tears in the eyes of the people involved with this mishap is very condensending and arrogant. I guess, this is how your organization conducts itself-it must be a means to an end.

BTW...I am also posting this reply with espnradio.com, I hope that your group believes in free speech and alternate viewpoints.

-Bob

Posted by: Robert Miller | May 5, 2008 08:23 AM

I am a PETA member.
Let's put our money where our mouth is and donate-as I did today-against the cruel sport of horse-racing and for more humane track and other conditions while this bloodsport continues.

Posted by: Alyson Leftin | May 5, 2008 08:25 AM

I think this entire story is horrible!! I LOVE horses and for them to be killed off just because they broke a leg or something is inhumane!!! Rehabilitate the poor thing and let him go live on a farm relaxing!!! I hate derby people just for this reason. So snobby that when something is no longer of use to them they just throw it away. A horse has a life and feelings it wasn't put on this earth to race and be tortured. That's all I'm saying on this heartbreaking issue. Kentucky derby should be shut down. Forever.

Posted by: Jackie | May 5, 2008 08:27 AM

I am totally disgusted with this tragedy and believe there should be an end to horse racing. It is abuse.

Posted by: Sandra | May 5, 2008 08:30 AM

Where is the petition to sign to end horse racing? Not only suspend the jockey, but also push the owners, etc. on animal cruelty. This is barbaric !

Posted by: M Whitney | May 5, 2008 08:31 AM

i am very upset and i didt and never will bid on a derby my grandma asked me which id like to bid on but i said none my family call me pathetic for loving animals trying to save any animals (even spiders)and veganism but hopefully this will educate them and others!call me weird or whatever idk but i think the jockeys should face the same fate.at horse riding classes i was told to whip my horse but i never did i couldnt bare to do that to a poor innocent animal!!!rip belles

Posted by: alex | May 5, 2008 08:33 AM

OK, So let's stop talking about it and do something profound. PLease I'd like to know what I can do to get laws enacted for this sport.
We know it's not going away, but we can ban together to get laws, rules and more control. Where do I sign up?

Posted by: Paula | May 5, 2008 08:38 AM

I am disgusted that you guys and gals do not do your research. just because of a freak accident, you all scream "suspension", "inhumane", and "ban". has it ever crossed your minds that the filly and most other horses that race, want to race? i've worked with horses who dont want to race and horses that want to race. those that do have their ears up and forward and they are pulling at the bit wanting to go. you all have no right to try and suspend any jockey from his job for an accident such as this. if you went running with your beloved pet and it broke both front legs, and your pet had to be killed I hope PETA is behind the driving force lobbing to get you suspended from your job because you killed a perfectly happy animal due to freak accident.

Posted by: Megan | May 5, 2008 08:38 AM

how can you people begin to point fingers at the jockey of Eight Belles and even think of blaming him?? You are just looking for an outlet to vent your nonsense. What happend to Eight Belles was indeed sad and tragic, but as the Vet even said...it was a FREAK thing and could not have been prevented. I know non of youhave any knowledge of racing whatsoever and therefore have no idea what you are talking about. She came down the stretch with her ears perked up and was charging hard...this is NOT an indication of being injured...have any of you even ben in any sort of contact with a horse. I hope all of your motions against racing and the jockey inparticular are shot down. You are a bunch of idiots. i love animals but you people take things way to far and are an embarassment to those who actually care. You are the Al Sharptons of the animal world. And by the way...these racehorses are treated better than most people are....they have personal attendant and are given the utmost care. I suggesty that before you all signal another rally cry, you learn your facts first. You are all a DISGRACE to humanity.

Posted by: Patrick | May 5, 2008 08:41 AM

Oh and i am guessing that my post will not pass your approval, will it? It's because you know the truth and are afraid to post it.

Posted by: Patrick | May 5, 2008 08:42 AM

I have been a PETA member in the past, but am not currently. I am a vegetarian and support several animal rights and anti animal cruelty causes. I wanted to comment about PETA's position on the Eight Belles tragedy in the Kentucky Derby. You are right on most issues and are also right that horse racing is a cruel industry in this country. However, you are absolutely wrong in what you are trying to do to the jockey of Eight Belles. I owned horses for many years and I can tell you there is absolutely NO WAY that jockey could have cajoled or beaten that horse enough to bring her into a second place finish in the Kentucky Derby if she was suffering any prelude to the disastrous injury that happened moments later. If you know anything about horses and the type of injury Eight Belles suffered, you would know it is impossible. It is a ridiculous charge. She would have immediately fallen apart and probably gone done, but even if she somehow managed to stay on her feet, she certainly would have been passed instantly by the entire field of horses - there is absolutely no way she could have maintained a pace to stay ahead of the best racing horses in the country. The jockey did nothing wrong (other than to choose a career in a cruel industry in the first place). PETA, you are absolutely wrong in ths action and should immediately stop your legal proceedings against this jockey. If you persist, I certainly would never consider supporting your organization or becoming a PETA member again at any point in the future.

Posted by: Linda Macfarlane | May 5, 2008 08:48 AM

The jockey is not at fault. Watch the re-run, this gallant mare first felt the pain close to the finish line. Her head bobs in the lane. Look to the trainer and his vet if there is any fault.She had run downs on the back which generally means she had problems in the front. Jockeys ride these runners in good faith that they are sound.

Posted by: G.WOOD | May 5, 2008 08:49 AM

I total agree Peta decisions. I like to see a change for safer & new policy rules. Like if it rains, cancels too! just like sports. & whiping is out of controls ! that is a must "STOP"! I also like to see inspections on horses before going on tracks. I feel they're being cheated for money, they couldn't careless for horses. I was very upsetting to hear the news of eight belle's ! it was like being backstab & mistreated to eight belles troubles. I hope they can change a whole new policy rules. Rain,whiping,inspections & Jokey ages to litle older more matures. I believe Jockey were trained to ignore the horses issues & think of the FINISH line,money & job contracts. Shame on all of them at the Derby's Jockey.

Posted by: Katharine Acord | May 5, 2008 08:49 AM

The jockey is not to blame. Fillies are not able to handle the grueling pace of the thoroughbreds and that's why they are supposed to run in the Kentucky Oaks the day before. The owner is at fault for trying to "be the first" to do something. People should learn from Ruffian's story. This is nothing new.

Posted by: kristi | May 5, 2008 08:56 AM

Would this be different if the horse was being used as a tool to transport, as was the case over a hundred years ago. Peolpe get over yourselves, horse racing is a past time of generations. You are the same people that will watch a NASCAR race for the wrecks, but jump a band wagon when a deer gets hit on the road side. Listen to you, the jockey, the trainer, the owners did nothing wrong, the horse simply broke down. Thank God the people in charge did the right think and put the animal down before anymore suffering was placed upon Eight Bells. I too was sick to see any animal injured, but please, we have famine and poor in this world that go unrecognized more by people like you here, than the "cruelty to animals" in horse racing. You should feel so proud to take care of your own animals as well as these purebred "Athletes" are taken care of and looked after. Does anyone believe for one minute that the owners of this horse are feeling any less grieve than you are? If you think it is just the "rich" class having fun, then you are truly an idiot. This animal was more than just a race horse, he was a pet, a friend, and probably some childs love. So please, get over your BS, if you are going to call this cruelty, then look deep in your own life and consider the cruelties that you commit everday on a greater level to the enviroment and to other people, I can guarantee they are much greater than that which you claim was endured by Eight Bells.

Posted by: Chris Love | May 5, 2008 08:59 AM

I am a fan of thoroughbred racing and I'm a huge horse lover in general... I've been to many races for the sole pleasure of watching these beatiful animals in their element, racing. I rarely ever place bets on these races, maybe for novelty only. I understand that the betting public is what keeps this industry alive, but my only desire is to watch and cheer from the stands. It is ALWAYS devastating and horrific for me to see any horse, animal, creature to be tragically injured. It's a sickening, helpless feeling every time. This horse ran her heart out, as most of them do, because they LOVE to run, it's in their blood. They LOVE the competiton, they LOVE being on the track. It's especially tragic that this philly finished the race, only to be horribly injured and consequently put down. These magnificent horses run their hearts out, and they deserve to be protected from potential harm in their racing careers and after. While I completely disagree that horse racing is inhumane period (very narrowminded statement) I do agree that more precautions need to be made and restrictions made and enforced about the use of whips on the horse by his jockey. It's simply disgusting. The use of the whip should be gone over with all jockeys and should NEVER EVER be used to intimidate or harm a horse into getting a bit a head of another. I personally know jockeys who rarely use their whips in even the smallest claiming races... and when they do, it's only to show the horse, not to strike. I think any jockey who uses his/her whip on a horse more than once is displaying their lack of talent as a rider and should not be in the business, period. These wonderful animals give so much for the people who own, train, and cheer for them. They should be protected.

Posted by: Rachel | May 5, 2008 09:00 AM

PETA,

Words can not describe the way I have felt since watching Eight Belles go down on Saturday. I am so heartbroken over her death and, like so many others who have written, want desperately to do something about it. As a loyal PETA member, I look to you all to make a strong stand against horse racing and bring this to the media's attention. Eight Belles and all of the other horses deserve so much better and I know that I won't be able to rest until something meaningful is done.

Posted by: Katie | May 5, 2008 09:02 AM

Eight Belles was put down on the track; not in the ambulance. Get your facts straight. As someone who was very involved in showing horses, (show jumping, etc.), for several years before I became enlightened and opened my eyes, I will tell you that in my opinion, this filly was run already injured. She was pumped full of painkillers and amphetamines and raced with the owner knowing he would collect from her insurance policy after the race was over. I have seen this done time and time again. It is very common and the track vets will support the big racing families no matter what they do. They are fooling anyone. Horse racing is a dirty, cruel "sport" wrapped up in mint juleps, Prada sunglasses and big hats.

Posted by: Lori | May 5, 2008 09:03 AM

Eight Belles was put down on the track; not in the ambulance. Get your facts straight. As someone who was very involved in showing horses, (show jumping, etc.), for several years before I became enlightened and opened my eyes, I will tell you that in my opinion, this filly was run already injured. She was pumped full of painkillers and amphetamines and raced with the owner knowing he would collect from her insurance policy after the race was over. I have seen this done time and time again. It is very common and the track vets will support the big racing families no matter what they do. They are not fooling anyone. Horse racing is a dirty, cruel "sport" wrapped up in mint juleps, Prada sunglasses and big hats.

Posted by: Lori | May 5, 2008 09:03 AM

Although I appreciate what PETA is doing, they are wrong to impose their beliefs on the horse-racing community.

Posted by: Anonymous | May 5, 2008 09:05 AM

I don't feel there is any proof right now that the jockey did anything wrong beforehand. I do think he could tell she was in distress during the race. Instead of being a hero for Eight Belles, he thought only about himself & money. It is absolutely criminal to race these 3 year olds like this! They are not fully mature at three. Horses are not considered adult until 5 years. The fact that the owners want a fast return on their money is the reason for this. I feel a law should be enacted NOW outlawing the races of these three year olds to their death. They are called Filly for a reason, they are not yet a Mare. (Of course I would like to see horse racing go away entirely but we are a long way from that beacuse of the people making money off these beautiful horses.) What a horrible heartbreaking event.

Posted by: Michelle | May 5, 2008 09:05 AM

I don't feel there is any proof right now that the jockey did anything wrong beforehand. I do think he could tell she was in distress during the race. Instead of being a hero for Eight Belles, he thought only about himself & money. It is absolutely criminal to race these 3 year olds like this! They are not fully mature at three. Horses are not considered adult until 5 years. The fact that the owners want a fast return on their money is the reason for this. I feel a law should be enacted NOW outlawing the races of these three year olds to their death. They are called Filly for a reason, they are not yet a Mare. (Of course I would like to see horse racing go away entirely but we are a long way from that beacuse of the people making money off these beautiful horses.) What a horrible heartbreaking event.

Posted by: Michelle | May 5, 2008 09:05 AM

I am not an expert or veterinarian, but it seems as if these horses are genetically engineered to break down. They are so powerful in the legs and body, and supported by what seems to be inadequate ankles, lower legs and feet. They are whipped and forced to sprint over a mile on a hard surface. I hope action is taken to at least improve the horses safety, however, like so many other things in amerika, when there are corporate sponsers and millions to be made... well, our interests never seem to represent the right causes.

Posted by: Bill | May 5, 2008 09:06 AM

I'm sorry to see such a beautiful horse like Eight Belles go like that, but I'm glad she made it to the end before collapsing. I was still able to clean up with my across the board bets on her.

Posted by: Steve | May 5, 2008 09:09 AM

Instead of screaming for solutions like "ban horse racing", maybe we should press our politicians on the state levels to decrease the number of racing dates in their jurisdictions. Maybe you boys and girls of PETA could be more practical and help there. The horsemen and the horses would appreciate it. Most of'em could use a vacation once in a blue moon.
Some time ago racing wasn't an all year round sport.
Winter racing only occured in the southern states.
The other problem, not mentioned enough is the sport's breeding industry, which has continually bred horses for speed as opposed to stamina and durability. That's to appease newer and richer owners who want to see a return on their investment yesterday. And the only way to accomplish that is to win with runners who are younger who only need to sustain their speed for shorter distances. Therefore the breeders are accomadating the current market.
Also US racing needs to start getting serious about adopting drug policies, much like in Hong Kong and Japan, that will help rid the sport of cheaters who run some of their horses on cobra venom.
And it has to be a drug policy that is uniform thruout the continent. Not 57 different sets of rules for 65 jurisdictions. These changes alone would make a huge difference in cutting down injuries and fatalities. As long as states want to collect as much tax revenue as possible, horse racing isn't going anywhere. Just ask your local congressperson.

Posted by: mike | May 5, 2008 09:10 AM

Horses have endured a lot worse treatment then being "mercilessly" whipped in races. Horses love to race, its what they crave. They love running and love the comptetition. What do you suggest horses run on then? Carpet? You have to be seriously stupid to suggest that horses should run on "softer" surfaces. Horses have run on hard dirt for thousands of years and will continue to do so. Get a life. Animals were meant for humans to use for food, so who cares if they are sent to Europe for the dinner table. At least people are eating something. I am the biggest horse lover ever, but racing is what horses love. It'd be like stopping a dolphin from swimming. So quit b*tching, it's life.

Posted by: Lacey | May 5, 2008 09:13 AM

What happened Saturday was absolutely tragic and shameful! But I think that PETA should be focusing on the bigger issues surrounding horse racing (i.e. the dirt surfaces, the age of the horses, training, etc.) Calling for the suspension of the 20-year-old jockey just comes across as grandstanding; there are plenty more low-paid, anorexic jocks lined up behind him. It's the OWNERS and TRAINERS who need to be held accountable! That's who you should be going after!

Aside from that, keep up the fight, PETA!!!!

Posted by: Susi | May 5, 2008 09:13 AM

The horse racing industry sickens me daily...starting with the irresposonsible inbreeding & overbreeding. One of the reasons horse slaughter was such a viable industry in our country until recently, was because it was basically supported by the racing industry. It's all simply gross and deeply disturbing. I haven't been able to watch a horse race since I watched Ruffian break down in the 1970's. I knew then that this was not a sport of cheers, but an industry of tears.

Posted by: Maura | May 5, 2008 09:16 AM

How do you know the horses ankles were about to snap? Do you have a crystal ball? THe bible says God put animals on the earth so man can eat!!!! you people are nuts!

Posted by: you | May 5, 2008 09:16 AM

As a former horse trainer of severely traumatized race horses, and current owner of several rescued race horses, I'm appalled that this remains as much a surprise as it does. The horse racing industry is more cruel than words can even describe.

I look at the scars on my babies and cry every day--scars caused by secretly-embedded nails in spurs and whips. I cringe when I have to provide daily icings to their bones and joints after years of injections so that they could RUN ON BROKEN ANKLES AND KNEES. Take a visit to the horse auctions, and look in the eyes of all of these former racing thoroughbred beauties...now being sold as dog food and horse meat. Listen to former race-barn vets explain how they had to leave the barns, great salaries as they were, because they couldn't bear to kill more perfectly healthy horses, or be privvy to their continued abuse.

The industry could easily prevent these racing injuries by altering the material on the track, and changing the angle. This has been known for decades, yet they refuse to change the horrors of the status quo.

Ultimately, it's a horrific sport that's outlived it's time. It remains alive because the rich feel a need to enjoy a cruel spectacle with beautiful animals. For SHAME.

Posted by: Christina | May 5, 2008 09:18 AM

greatest thing ever! make that horse not feel feelings rather than suffer.

Posted by: Dirk Gramblin | May 5, 2008 09:21 AM

You people seem to care about animals way more than fellow humans. You can "cry and cry" over a horse but don't cry for millions of people that die every day in this world? IMO YOU are scum.

Posted by: Clay Kramer | May 5, 2008 09:21 AM

It is sad when any animal dies. However, horse racing is a beautiful sport. It would be more tragic if these horses couldn't race. They were created to run. This sport has endured for centuries, it is the "Sport of Kings." Let them run!!

Posted by: Barbaro | May 5, 2008 09:22 AM

I understand the death of an animal is a difficult thing. I admire all the good work PETA does. However, I feel there is a sad lack of education about this sport and about what happened on Derby day. Speaking as someone who was close to the industry for a long time, I would like to offer a few facts.

Jockeys are not allowed to whip horses mercilessly. In fact, they can be fined for "excessive use of whip." A whip is only allowed in the final furlongs of the stretch. A furlong is one-eighth of a mile, for those who don't know. Eight Belles was not whipped mercilessly.
She was not injured during the race. It would be impossible for her to have sustained injury yet gallop away around the second turn after the race was over. Whatever happened, happened there.

There is speculation that she was "cross-firing," which is a bizarre little gait that young horses are prone to. When the jockey said later she was galloping funny, that might have been what he felt. He tried to pull up the horse but a 119-pound jockey isn't going to win a battle with a 1200-pound animal who wants to keep running. She likely took a bad step.

These trainers, owners and jockeys are heartbroken when something like this happens. If you want to disagree with the sport, that's fine and you have every right. But please try to understand the sport before having knee-jerk reactions. All the horsepeople I've ever met are horse-lovers who treat their animals like children. There were a lot of broken hearts on Saturday night, and rubbing salt into already-painful wounds is not the compassionate way. Sometimes, sad accidents happen.

Posted by: Jen | May 5, 2008 09:22 AM

I have read a great number of the responses about Eight Belles tragic accident at the Derby. But I ask PETA and its members to refrain from blaming the jockey in this case. Although there may be a great deal of blame to go around as a family member of a Professional jockey I can assure you that young Mr Saez did what ever he could to avoid this event. Remember his life and his livelyhood count on the health and well being of these beautiful animals especially what could have been a once in a career horse. The jockey must take great care of his mount since what happens to the horse happens to the jock..funny how nobody wondered if Mr Saez was ok after his fall. Is there problems in the industry..yes I have no argument but point the fingers in the right direction..the jockey could have easily been severly injured or killed as well,

Randy
Chicago

Posted by: Randy | May 5, 2008 09:27 AM

I am from Louisville, Kentucky and have been around Churchill Downs and the Derby for many years. I also have owned five horses of my own and can say without a doubt in my mind (the very thing that I said the minute Eight Belles hit the ground) . . . IT IS THE JOCKEY'S responsibility to read the horse. Anyone who has ever ridden or has horses can tell you that the very instant and I mean the very INSTANT that a horse has a problem with a foot or leg you can feel it in the saddle. It is like a blow out on a car. Something as simple as a rock in the hoof can change a horse's stride in a second. A good horse person pulls up a horse and stops . . . STOPS the second this is felt. The jockey is the greedy one. He is the only one who was on the horse. He also, I believe, would be paid a percentage of the horses's winnings. His motives were not pure. When the jockey for Big Brown jumped off and looked behind him at Eight Belles, you could see the look of anger and disgust in his face at what he saw. He knows in his heart what happened. I believe the jocket should be suspended indefinitely from racing and suspended permanently from Churchill Downs. For those people who think these horses are mistreated. That is really a very minute percentage. Most of these horses love their owners, trainers and what they do. They love to run. I do not believe in using a whip. I never used one on any of my horses and in fact when I sold one, a lady came in to ride him and had a whip in her hand. I ran her out of the barn. They need some encouragement, but that must be between the horse and the other horses. Horses are competitive as it is. They have a natural desire to be first when challenged by another horse. The whips should not be a part of the picture. I sat on my floor and cried and was glad that this was one Derby I missed. Horses are so trusting and dedicated that they will do anything to please the person who is riding them. NOT the person who owns him or trains him . . . THE PERSON THAT IS IN THE SADDLE!

Posted by: Crystal Conlin | May 5, 2008 09:28 AM

Normally I would never in my wildest dreams think of posting on this blog, but I feel that I must make my opinion known. The death of Eight Belles on Saturday was an absolute tragedy, but for PETA to champion the suspension of Gabriel Saez is totally wrong. The fact that the people of this organization think that Saez is at fault here is totally off base. The horse broke down while she was in her post race gallop and nothing couldve have been done. If anyone at this site would've watched the race or read any of the articles after the race they would've learned that Saez did all he could to pull the horse up when he realized that something was wrong.

Also, Larry Jonees, trainer of Eight Belles, is one of the most admirable men we have in this sport. His wife Cindy and him are a rarity in thoroughbred racing. They treat their horses like they are members of their family. Unlike the trainer of the winner, Richard Dutrow, Jones has never doped any of his horses and has never been suspended.

Horse racing is not perfect, we all Know that. But instead of focusing on the poor animals who give carriage rides in major cities you choose to focus on this. Why not focus on the men and women in this country who rescue horses and provide them with amazing lives after their racing careers are over. Like the farm in the everglades whos sole purpose is to rescue blind horses and give them a place to live out their lives.

Posted by: Conor Gillis | May 5, 2008 09:28 AM

Wow...I really don't understand PETA!!

Posted by: Anton | May 5, 2008 09:29 AM

It disgusts me that as humans we subject animals to this torture! Shame shame....

Posted by: Julia Maresca | May 5, 2008 09:30 AM

I don't know why they refer to the horses as athletes.Yes horses have a natural inclination to run but they also have a natural inclination to live. Given a choice I think eight belles would rather be eating in her stall than be buried. The only athleticism in horse racing is the greedy owners running to the bank. These horses are overbred with thin legs- drugs are used edtensively and tracks are too hard. Does anyone remember Ruffian the filly pitted against colts who also died and is buried at Belmont. These horses are disposable to the money hungry trainers and owners they arent family- larry Jones the trainer was lying through his teeth when he said he would miss her like one of his own.He misses her as much as he misses cash spent from his wallet-. I think peta is right to go after the jockey they too are governed by greed. This is not a sport it is a death watch.thank you

Posted by: linda ekstrand | May 5, 2008 09:32 AM

PETA should also rally to ban rat and mouse traps, flea collars, ant and roach motels, and Orkin Pest Control franchises. We must do something to save the flea's and ticks, and the cockroaches. Stop the meaningless slaughter of these defenseless creatures. Why do we only choose the warm cuddly looking animals to protect? Do we not think the cockroach deserves to live and not end their lifes in a horrific death to the hands of the Orkin man?? I am going to send in a letter to the National Pest Control Sprayers and demand a suspension of my Orkin Pest Control person for excessive spraying. Have you ever seen a rat or mouse with it's eyes popped out of it's head from a rat trap snapping it's neck?? Let the rat and mouse have a place in our walls and attics, and basements. Aren't these all of god's creatures as well???

Posted by: Elaine Marksum | May 5, 2008 09:32 AM

this is absolutely rediculous!! I have been around horses all of my life, and suffering wasn't allowed. I do not know how you expect a horse to get up on two front broken hocks and cause further injury and suffering. she would have collapsed earlier had her two front feet have been broken. You clearly do not have a good understanding of what it means to end suffering in an in humane way. If anything should be changed in racing it would be to allow the colts to have another year of maturity on their bone growth. Just have you have battled to stop the selling of meat from horses, and now i would like to know exactly how you and your PETA groups are going to come collect and humanely put animals down and dispose of them when they clearly suffering for the millions of Americans in the horse business. that you have yet to print on how you are going to handle all of this. You always see the problems, but have yet to come to the table with solutions.

Posted by: Rochelle | May 5, 2008 09:34 AM

The owner of 8 belles and the jockey should be put on trial for the horrendous persecutionof this horse.Its no different thanMichael Vick s' dog killing episodes!!!!!

Posted by: mark | May 5, 2008 09:34 AM

You know, it disgusts me that this gets more interest than the 10,000 people that were killed in the twister incident in India.

Honestly, what is more important?

Posted by: Disgusted | May 5, 2008 09:34 AM

This is a very valiant sport and these horses are athletes. Unfortunately this was a terrible thing that occurred, but it is rare and sometimes we don't always know what the big picture god has in store.

Posted by: bandit22 | May 5, 2008 09:36 AM

"hi was screaming at the television with tears in my eyes while the vets surrounded Eight Belles with the several equine ambulances to block the view from the crowd, making sure to minimize the dirty truth about what happens on the track year after year."

Are you on drugs? They blocked the view so the "bloodthirsty" public at the derby couldn't see them humanely put the horse down.

"I'm so sick over this cruelty, will it never end? That jockey should have known the horse was in distress rather than beating her. The wealth in horse racing is so unfathomable, how do you fight to end this, can it be done?"

So the jockey was supposed to read the horse's mind that she was in distress? New one.
----
I myself like animals a lot and wish many things were different concerning their "handling." But you Peta supporters need to wake up and take an intelligent approach to what you say, because you literally sound like fools. Most of the world thinks you're nuts, and I agree with them. You are hurting your cause.

Posted by: Clay Kramer | May 5, 2008 09:37 AM

Cruelty of horses? I think all of them should have been shot after the race.

Posted by: Ashley | May 5, 2008 09:39 AM

We are the biggest horse lovers there are and care for our horses highly! they come before us daily!
But this is crazy Eight Bells would have gone down if she would have broke her leg sooner this is NOT the jockys fault in any way! This is no different than any sport these horses love what they do and belive me this whip is NOt hurting then when you take a animal that large this is just a tap they are not beng abused! Whats wrong with you people! You all want to say a prarie dog well you should see how bad a horse can break a led in one of ther holes! or maybe you should go after people that put out cattle guards have you ever seen what that does to a horses leg... well its not pretty! Come on give the racing industery a break this is not the fault of the rider on her this is really stuping you all think this way but then most of you are city people that just don't know any better!

Posted by: Bonnie | May 5, 2008 09:42 AM

I totally agree that horseracing needs to be changed. There need to be guidelines and rules. Clearly this was a cruel and tragic death of a beautful horse, and it could have been avoided. I made me sick enough not to desire watching any Kentucky Derby again.

There needs to be a public outcry in order to force changing the horseracing industry.

Posted by: Louise Davie | May 5, 2008 09:42 AM

To PETA - An invitation for education – please Visit a thoroughbred horse farm, training center and racetrack especially in the Bluegrass. Watch the treatment of these very coveted animals. The comments I have read, being in broodmare and foaling for over 30 years, reveal the ignorance to the entire profession and especially knowledge of a thoroughbred. Please educate yourself - it is a wonderful life for the thoroughbreds. The people who give their lives for the welfare of thoroughbreds are much more upset by this recent tragedy than PETA. Thoroughbreds are treated better than humans are treated – in many cases.

Tragedy happened Saturday to Eight Belles - there is no denying that. The thoroughbred is born to run. Unfortunately against all odds, accidents, tragedies do happen, to the horses and their caretakers. We all share in the love of these horses.

Posted by: Susan Weisenberger | May 5, 2008 09:45 AM

I am a animal lover and I agree this was so sad. It was like Eight Bellies had to run till the animal fell dead. I read about this and it was sickning!!!!!That poor horse.So many animals are in places that they have to do what they are made to do.It makes me so sick!!!!!!!!!!!! These acts that all animals have to perform is nothing but about money and people getting rich off of them. The whole thing makes me sick.When I see a animal on any show anymore I stop watching or I turn the channel because, It makes me think what did that animal have to go through to be there. I don't want to be apart of that. That is one way that I know that I am helping these animals. Animals were not put on this earth to be abused!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: Tamra Mullins | May 5, 2008 09:49 AM

I sent this note to the owners of Eight Bells. While I certainly agree that the ideal option is to stop the sport all together, I dont believe that is going to happen any time soon. That said, we should do what we can to help the helpless animals who are faced with these unfortunate fates. Here is my suggestion.

Donation of prize money to research

On behalf of everyone who does not want this tragedy to happen to another living being, I urge you to donate the prize money you won from Eight Bells' finish to research. You can learn about the Barbaro fund here: Penn Veterinary School of Medicine or I am certain they would welcome a new fund in Eight Bells name.

Please. Do the right thing.

Posted by: nicole smith | May 5, 2008 09:49 AM

First, I would like to say that on most issues I support the position and work of PETA. But on this you are wrong on so many levels I felt I had to come to your site to respond. First, to attack the jockey as though he personally broke her legs is just ridiculous. I guarantee you that this poor young man is already beating himself up over the what-ifs and does not need you to add to it. Second, you make such an issue about the "merciless whipping" that takes place during a race. Have you ever seen the whips used or examined a horse immediately after a race in which he has been "mercilessly whipped"? Of course not or you would know that the whipping is more for the sound and to help the horse focus rather than to inflict any sort of injury which I might add it does not. Do you not realize that the same effect can be achieved by clapping but that is somewhat difficult to do when you are on the back of one of these magnificent beasts. And yes, I was watching the race and cried when she was put down but for your group to suddenly come off with your accusations in this time of great pain for many and this filly's losing her life makes you as guilty of exploitation as anyone-trying to exploit the pain of many for your own gain. You knew this was a big story and had to jump in there to get your organization's name in front of the public in a story you knew they would be following-if that is not exploitation of a painful situation, I don't know what is.

Posted by: Carole | May 5, 2008 09:51 AM

It is a shame that eight Belles broke her front ankles, but I feel PETA could do better by making the world a better place for people. Animals have a place in the world and if it were not for the fact that we eat them and use their hides for clothing the United States would not have been able to become the United States, of for that matter past generations would not have been able to procreate and that would mean lots of us would not be here today.

Posted by: Mary P | May 5, 2008 09:54 AM

I have been crying for 2 days now and the jockey needs to be suspended,i used to be a hot walker for a very caring trainer @ churchill downs not all are in it for the money some may disagree,but its true i grew up with 2 horses loved them like my own kids,and would do anything to protect them the fact is that stupid jockey made her stop way to quick she had to be galloped out and that wasnt done,that is what broke her ankles,they had to put her down cause of the pain she was in,her injuries were not able to be repaired unfortunetly,it is the asshole jockeys fault he didnt have enough experience to even be considered to run in this race HE MUST BE STOPPED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! RIP EIGHT BELLES I LOVE YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: Wendy Schneider | May 5, 2008 09:54 AM

While I certainly understand that the ideal solution is a general ban on horse racing, I do not belive this to be a practical immeidate solution. That said, I have sent this note to Eight Bells Owners .

Donation of prize money to research

On behalf of everyone who does not want this tragedy to happen to another living being, I urge you to donate the prize money you won from Eight Bells' finish to research. You can learn about the Barbaro fund here: Penn Veterinary School of Medicine or I am certain they would welcome a new fund in Eight Bells name.

Please. Do the right thing.

Posted by: nicole smith | May 5, 2008 09:55 AM

Eight Belles is the only loser! Her owner may be upset at the lose of furture earnings, but a horse like that is insured. He probabaly made more money for her death than he would have won that day!

Posted by: vicky | May 5, 2008 09:55 AM

Congrats to Eight Belles for winning second prize at the greatest of all horse races. It was a wonderful day, indeed. Eight Belles died doing what she was trained for.
We need to get our priorities straight, there is so much HUMAN tradegy in this world. Lets concentrate our efforts and resources on that and quit wasting time on goofy tactics and meaningless campaigns.

Posted by: Chris Vanner | May 5, 2008 09:57 AM

PETA please don't give up this fight!! I have never even logged on to PETA.com until this hideous event took place. I watched the Derby "just to watch" and my 3 kids were with me. When I saw what they did to Eight Belles, I ran from the room crying. I could not believe what I had witnessed. Are these beautiful creatures that disposable?? That very night I logged on to your website in hopes that I would find others who felt the same and that there would be some backlash. They must put a stop to this. For Eight Belles I pray. Don't let her life be for naught. Rest in Peace without whips or pain...Pretty Girl.

Posted by: Kristen | May 5, 2008 09:57 AM

This was a horrible tragedy, unfortunately, this is not the first time this has happened. I strongly disagree with PETA on one point. The suspension of the jockey. There is probably no one on the racetrack more devoted to these horses than the jockey's. When Eight Belles broke her ankles this jockey got to the owner and trainer as fast as possible to tell them what just happened. The people in the wrong here are the Kentucky Derby people, who put her down without contacting either the trainer or the owner. That's wrong. This jockey was doing his job, racing a horse for a stable with the intent to win. If he had been able to forsee this happening he would have never raced her.

Posted by: Matt | May 5, 2008 09:59 AM

No animal should be used for profit period!!!!! It's all about money!!! It makes me sick to see how animals are being treated!! If I see anything on Tv with a animal in it anymore I turn the channel. I stop watching because I think to myself what did that animal have to endure to be there!!!! That is one way I can truly show how I feel about animals being used for profit. Animals should not be money machines!!!!!!!!!!! Animals are here for us to love and not to abuse!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: Tamra Mullins | May 5, 2008 10:06 AM

No animal should be used for profit period!!!!! It's all about money!!! It makes me sick to see how animals are being treated!! If I see anything on Tv with a animal in it anymore I turn the channel. I stop watching because I think to myself what did that animal have to endure to be there!!!! That is one way I can truly show how I feel about animals being used for profit. Animals should not be money machines!!!!!!!!!!! Animals are here for us to love and not to abuse!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: Tamra Mullins | May 5, 2008 10:06 AM

That filly was injured before the finish line. Take out the tape of the race and fastforward it the top of the stretch as the horses were coming out of the final turn. Notice how Eight Belles bobbles as she's coming out of the turn and is struck with the whip then takes a hard left towards the rail. The reason she did that was because she was already hurt and when that jockey hit her with the whip she could no longer run any faster so she took a hard left over to the rail. Look at the re-run. That is the reason she went over to the rail so quickly. She was clearly in pain. Now watch her as she's running down the stretch, notice how both her front legs appear to be hitting the ground at the same time. There are two causes for that, extreme exhaustion and injury or both. Also her stride was shortening as well, yes she was tired and hurt, and YES her jockey continued to beat her anyway. I've showed hunters & jumpers and also own horses and have seen many leg injuries. I know an injured horse when I see one. AND, yes, a horse will run on a broken ankle or both. Understand, that when a horse is going 35-40 mph they can not just stop on a dime, injured or not, they will continue to run until there is nothing left of their shattered bones. Wouldn't you if someone was whipping the crap out of you. That filly was hurt coming to the wire. I could see it from my living room couch that she wasn't moving right, I was surprised that she actually made it to the finish. There's no way that jockey didn't know she was hurt, I'm not buying it and Larry Jones, and his tears, oh please. He'll probably enter Proud Spell in the Preakness because his other top filly is dead. By the way, did anyone notice how many times that same jockey beat the crap out of Proud Spell the day before in the Oaks. That jockey was hungry for a big payout. I'd like to take that whip if his and jam it you now where.

Posted by: Lori Urban | May 5, 2008 10:07 AM

All I can say is wow, you people compare this to dog fighting? That is not even close to the same thing, because a dog dies everytime a dog fights one another, in horse racing a horse does not die everytime a race happens. It is said what happened but things happen, if you are outraged by this, then what about horses that do the equestrian games and do hard labor at farms? Why niot ban that also, this is amazing that an organizations that helps us is going to fight this on, good luck and good job wasting your organizations money on this instead of trying to help animals that are really being killed everyday.

Posted by: Chris | May 5, 2008 10:08 AM

No animal should be used for profit period!!!!! It's all about money!!! It makes me sick to see how animals are being treated!! If I see anything on Tv with a animal in it anymore I turn the channel. I stop watching because I think to myself what did that animal have to endure to be there!!!! That is one way I can truly show how I feel about animals being used for profit. Animals should not be money machines!!!!!!!!!!! Animals are here for us to love and not to abuse!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: Tamra Mullins | May 5, 2008 10:08 AM

What happened Saturday was a tragedy. Unfortunately, I believe PETA's position is misguided in this particular case. As a responsible horse owner, I can tell you that it is not the rider, but the industry and culture which is at fault here. They must change.

This sub-industry (Thoroughbreds), races horses between 2 and 3 years old. Anyone who knows horses knows that horses do not reach peak maturity until they are between 4 and 5 years of age. Their bones and muscles have not completed development at this age. What happened Saturday is an all too COMMON event in thoroughbred rings. It should be stopped - but stopped through clarity and understanding of the real problem.

Horses are simply not developed enough to handle the stress of a rider, let alone high-impact racing at this age. In this case, the horse was slowing which added even greater stress to its front legs. HERE is the problem!

I reviewed what film that was available and saw no signaling of pain or distress from the horse until its collapse. Naturally, this is not to say that it did not have any, but jockeys know this and do pull horses aside in most cases.

Regardless of what anyone thinks about horse racing and the fact that horses most certainly prefer a life in open land, the fact that the industry itself creates an atmosphere that encourages racing of under-developed horses is what is at the root of Eight Belles, Barabaro and thousands of other horses needless and reckless deaths every year.

In most other areas of equine sports, horses are restricted to what they can perform until the age of four and sometimes five.

The relationship between horses and humans is legendary. However, if we have the honor of owning them, we have a more powerful responsibility to protect them.

Unfortunately, horse racing is here to stay. I hope you will raise your voices to the real issues at hand. If more people knew about this, clarity and common sense would force change to this industry in need of awakening, IMHO.

Posted by: Kevin Williams | May 5, 2008 10:10 AM

Dear PETA,

Horse racing is not a cruel sport in itself. As a horseperson, I certainly agree that the age requirements for races should be increased; personally I feel that training should commence at 3 and racing should start at 4 and the Triple Crown eligible only to 5 year olds. By then, the animals are fully developed and have gained a lot of strength to be able to race hard for years to come. And the animals are bred for this, it's in their blood. They live for the excitement of beating other horses and coming out of top. Most horses like being in the front! The sport is based on this behavior that many horses naturally show. The breeding attempts to pass this trait on so that the horse naturally understands when it breaks from the gate, it's time to pass all these other horses and stay in front.

I also agree that whipping incessantly at the end of a race is unnecessary. I do know that reminding your horse of the task at hand with a whip can be a useful training aid, but I agree with you that the constant whipping is a little much, despite the fact that it is only virtually seconds worth. Suspending the jockey is not the answer, changing the rules of the game is. If jockeys were not allowed to carry whips, then the animals truly would have to race because they wanted to win!

I did send my letter to the commissoner because I've always wanted the rules to be changed, but bashing the entire sport and all of it's participants is an ineffective way of bringing this issue to the forefront and seeking a humane answer. I truly hope that the knowledgeable horse people involved with PETA will check their emotions and scientifically prove that the animals are not developed enough at that age to handle this racing and also to remind extreme animal activists that horses do enjoy running, and they certainly enjoy winning!

Thank you for taking the time to read this post and consider these points before sounding foolish with extreme emotional outbursts in order to garner support.

Posted by: Valerie | May 5, 2008 10:11 AM

FYI – Carol C posted 5/4 The 1986 Derby Winner Ferdinand was sent over sea’s for stud service. It was later learned that he was sent to slaughter by that country not his US connections. This truly shocked and made all horsemen in the US sick.

Yvonne Marie posted 5/4 and many others – You state that you didn’t tune in to watch the Derby for the race you just wanted to see the horses. Hello…you got to be kidding me!

So many of you state how the jockey whipped this horse mercilessly while she was in pain. DO YOU KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT HORSES??? First off, I am not a vet, but based one my experience with horses of many disciplines, it appeared that Eight Belles was happy and alert as she crossed the finish line. Trust me; if she was in pain you would have seen it. Jockey’s are trained to feel when their horse if off. They know before any of us if there is a problem. If this young man felt she wasn’t 100% he would have pulled her up. Forcing a horse to run could result in other horses getting hurt. All of you people stating that the jockey is the scum of the earth…did you even see what happened??? How can you make judgment about this person? Did you see if he stayed by her side until help arrived. Did you see the tears that he shed for her along with the rest of you??? No, because all you people do is jump on the band wagon about an issue that you have little or no info about.

I agree there are bad people everywhere, even horse racing. The majority of the people involved care for these horses very much. I also agree that steps to make horse racing safer should be researched. But please before you go running off at the mouth, get educated.

Posted by: Heather | May 5, 2008 10:12 AM

As a horse owner and lifetime horse lover, I was saddened by the breakdown of Eight Belles on Saturday, however I am shocked and outraged at PETA's presumption to fault the jockey. Your organization seems to be ignorant of horse anatomy, equitation, and this sport. Yes, there are issues with horse racing that continue to be addressed and improved, but let me tell you, million dollar horses are not treated "unmercifully." As another poster noted, please get your facts and information straight before you make a clearly biased and unfounded public statement that could damage someone's career and livlihood.

Posted by: H Fieschko | May 5, 2008 10:13 AM

I agree they should kill racehorses tonight and close the tracks tomorrow.

Posted by: moses | May 5, 2008 10:14 AM

Horses and dogs are my 2 favorite animals. I am a equine/K-9 animal Chiropractor. I have a desire to help these animals have the best functioning nervous system, for the best quality of life without drugs when possible. Now on to the topic of Eight belles, I have been in and around the horse race business all my life. If you people think that the jockey is at fault you are crazy, things happen! These horse love nothing more than to run full out thats what they are built for, God made them that way. And saying that the jockey, owner, trainers should also die, is just STUPID! You people need to get a clue, its staements like that, that make you look like idiots.

Posted by: Mark M. | May 5, 2008 10:14 AM

While certain changes need to be made, be very careful insisting on the artificial, softer tracks. California switched to these a year or two ago and many trainers are pointing to a rise in certain leg injuries, attributable to horses running, but not getting the traction they need.

Further research needs to be done.

Posted by: Sidney | May 5, 2008 10:14 AM

I had to add one more comment-to all of you saying why didn't they just put her on a farm rather that euthanize-did you ever even hear of Barbaro? This horse had one broken leg and doctors spent months and all of the possible avenues and treatments trying to save him but to no avail in the end. As stated by the track veterinarian at the time of Eight Belles' euthanization, with both front legs broken there would have been no way for her to be able to heal without being able to stand at all. Horses cannot just lay down during a healing process and survive. Their circulatory systems are just not designed for that. And in case you missed it with Barbaro, look up the word laminitis. I'm guessing that most of the people posting here have never even seen a horse other than in pictures let alone having owned or cared for one. Check some facts before you make these statements and look like a fool to those of us who own and love horses-and no, not racehorses, just my beloved pasture darlings.

Posted by: Carole | May 5, 2008 10:17 AM

Please let the American public know what we can do to stop this inhumane treatment of horses.
How can we see that this heartless jockey is banned forever from the "sport"?
Thanks,
Rita Hausner and Family

Posted by: Rita Hausner | May 5, 2008 10:17 AM

Race horses live the best possible lives. They are better cared for than most people. The are not indescriminately killed if they lose a race or get injured, as the real money is typically made in breeding after the horse's racing career is over. Owners and trainers want their horses to live. These people have tremendous affection for their animals.

Less talented thoroughbreds are sold to use in hunter/jumper, eventing, or just pleaseure riding.

Horse racing gives lots of pleasure to kids like my daugher, who follows racing and also rides hunter/jumper. Domesticated animals are bred by man to do what they do and are contented doing what they have been bred to do.

In any event, horses--and animals generally--have no rights, as they have no duties. People have rights and duties, given by God.

Posted by: Bob White | May 5, 2008 10:17 AM

Are some of you people serious? Horses break down whether being raced, plowing fields, or just left to run the fields all day long.

To equate horseracing to dogfighting is unbelievable. Show me one case where a horse that can't "cut it" is brutally drowned or electrocuted. These horses are treated as "kings and queens" and live a better life than many people in the United States.

Get over yourselves. Get to actually know how the horse are treated and then spout off. Don't do it based on the knowledged you have "gleaned" from the 5 minutes you watched on Saturday.

PETA is a wonderful organization, but one whose aim has become shaky. To equate horse racing to dogfighting is merely a publicity stunt, one which I hope the majority of rational-thinking individuals will see right through.

I love horses, my wife and I cried when Barbaro was pulled up, and we cried when we saw Eight Belles collapse.

Whipping a horse towards the finish line is not abuse, if you start attempting to blur the lines, you tell me where it stops? Smacking a puppy with newspaper, letting dogs play with other because sometimes they bite each other, or anyone that keeps a bird in a cage, that's inhumane if I ever saw it.

PETA has a great cause, but you've lost your way. Just to recap, dogfighting is bad, but when you start trying to equate a horse getting whipped and then being euthanized because it can no longer walk does not in any way equal drowning, beeating, electrocuting and the sheer combat imposed on dogs in the dogfighting world.

Keep your aim true. Come to Kentucky and watch how these horses are kept and treated on an everyday basis. There is not one person connected to horse racing today that is not saddened and hurt by the loss of Eight Belles. Not one.

Posted by: Steven | May 5, 2008 10:17 AM

This is great Jack.
Hope these people are enjoying their $400,000.00 in
Blood money. They sold their souls long ago. What a horrific group of people.

Peace, for all animals!

Posted by: Judith, Freedom Fighter for Animals | May 5, 2008 10:24 AM

I hope PETA protests the Preakness Stakes in a few weeks and draws the media attention onto their crusade to save horses and off of this greed ridden torture feast!

Posted by: John | May 5, 2008 10:24 AM

Without horses there would never be an 'Eight Belles' in the first place. Do you think people are going spend thousands/millions of dollars to keep a horse in their back yard?

As for the whip. If I walked into a horses stall and hit it half as many times, half as hard as he/she was during a race it would be an emotional basket case -- but after a race why is it they cherish no resentment? And I never had a horse return with so much as a welt.

As for a condylar fractures. Do more research: these are progressive injuries which very rarely show lameness until the bone actually breaks away ( now involving the periosteum which is where the real pain radiates from ). She was galloping sound and content past the line; somewhere in her gallop out was the straw that broke the camels back -- my theory.

'rigged', 'cruel' etc... are irresponsible umbrella statements. I never used drugs, never had a horse go to or from the saddle paddock in a distressed state of mind, never used drugs. Collect facts before you point fingers. And point it the individual the entire community.

Pick a true case of negligence of cruelty: Fairplex-- just an ordinary claiming race several years ago; a crippled horse enters a race jockey should have told out rider to have the vet scratch him. But he was known for riding wrecks that others were scared to get on, so in the gate they go. Horse breaks both front ankles while on the lead. Now fine him not Sage -- oh, wait you can't: his head was crushed by the horse directly behind him.

Get rid of the idea that this is money and greed; have you ever been on a backstretch? Sure the owners look nice in there $1k suits but don't think a horse is paying the bills -- in the long run, they don't stand a chance, rich people can afford to play and loose.

And another news flash, horses die.

If you've ever worked around horses, you know they find ways to die all on there own. Of the 5 horses I lost none of them was due to racing injury.

What it seems you are discussing is an end to human involvement with horses, not just an end to racing.

Posted by: kevin ryan | May 5, 2008 10:26 AM

I was sickened after hearing about this race and Eight Belles. I then went to the KD website to express my outrage and then saw the race and it absolutely made me cry at the sight of how they beat these horses. This is not a sport. It's a bunch of RICH, OVERINDULGENT, southerners getting their kicks while abusing animals.
I think it should be stopped.
It has brought so much corruption ie bookies, betting and the abuse of these innocent creatures.
We are all hoping Peta can make a difference. From the looks of all the comments there are a lot of people that are as outraged as I am.

Posted by: Marlene | May 5, 2008 10:27 AM

Pumped full of painkiller and other meds….ARE YOU SERIOUS?!?!?!?! First off, all horses are tested for drugs after a race. If those drugs were found in her system the owners/trainer would not receive any of their so called insurance money you refer to.

Posted by: Heather | May 5, 2008 10:33 AM

PETA, I understand all of your concerns about Eight Bells and her having to be but down right in front of every one and I agree that some horses bones are just not ready for that type of racing but I am very mad at the fact that you want to take this jockey's job away from him. Anyone who has eyes can see that there was nothing wrong with Eight Bells when she crossed the finish line, the jockey did nothing wrong as soon as he felt her take a funny step he tried to pull her to a stop but because of her natural competitiveness he was unable. Don't take this man's job away he did nothing wrong.

Posted by: Becca | May 5, 2008 10:35 AM

It disturbed me to hear about the tragedy at the Derby. It equally disturbs me when people use a tragedy to promote their own point of view. Like a supporter of "white power" saying that the inner-city is a jungle when a tragic shooting occurs,
up jump Peta after yesterdays Derby.

Where is this vigor and outrage for the TENS OF MILLIONS of children dying of hunger?

I'm so glad you have found a way to change the world.

However, Peta is often sound and fury yet signifying nothing. Peta is more famous for the very classy action of throwing paint on celebrities.

Peta has a place and should do more but clearly the people in charge have no clue of how to change anything without a Michael Vick or the Derby tragedy of Eight Bells being the impetus of that change.

That said, whipping the Horses should be done away with forever. I've never seen the point of that. If Horse racing is truly a sport, then the Horse will run of its' own desire to win and not the whip.

The elimination of the whip would give future animal athletes a real sports personality that doesn't feel manufactured by trainers and jockeys.

Posted by: Jay | May 5, 2008 10:39 AM

I have been just not the same since i saw that noble filly destoryed after the derby--that being said, how can anyone on this site keep a pet--those animals are bread for our enjoyment--the breeders are there for profits only--when someone does not want a dog, isn't it the humane thing to do to put this animal down--and i do wonder if anyone that has posted actually saw the race---the jockey fell off also---don't you think if he new the horse was injured, he would have tried to also help himself---and also, why are you not making a big deal about chelokee---a horse that was injured DURING a race on friday---special intrest groups as usual--half the story and lots of money makes you people feel soooo good about yourselves--

Posted by: matt smith | May 5, 2008 10:39 AM

I was in the horse racing business for quite a few years. My wife saves horses after they have raced and trains them to have a second career. Through this, we realize how wrong so many practices in the horse racing industry are! This blog would go on forever if I tell you everything, but the main problems are as follows; First, horses should not be allowed to start training until they are matured. Unfortunately, because it not only takes at least 3 years to wait until they are somewhat mature, but as an owner/breeder, you also have to wait 11 months for the foal to arrive, so an owner/breeder would have way too much time and money invested to benefit from it. If the industry wants to survive and do it ethically, this should only be a sport that the ultimate wealthy should be in (it's called the sport of kings for a reason). That way, it wouldn't necessarily be about the possiblility of making money, but the beauty of the sport! When you get someone who expects to get a return on their investment, greed is involved. Secondly, whipping a horse is just barbaric and abusive! If every jockey wasn't allowed to whip their horse, it would be an even playing field and only the horses who truly WANT to run (not all of them do), would prevail. The other HUGE problem, is that horses, are allowed to be on pain killers! "BUTE" (Fenilbutazone) is an allowed drug on the race track! This drug deadens the pain the horse is feeling. I don't know if "Eight Belles" was on BUTE, but the way she ran, as well as the way she galloped out soundly, before dropping to the ground, I would assume she had a pain killer of some sort. Horses don't run that good, especially in a top competitive race like the Derby, if they feel pain. Many trainers also have other pain killers that are either illegal, or not detectable and this is done every day! This needs to stop! Just as a sidenote, I know we all want someone to point a finger at, but in my opinion, the jockey is not the problem here. Since whipping a horse is allowed and commonplace in racing, he did nothing illegal! Also, as I explained, the horse ran sound, so there was no reason for the jockey to pull her up! As many things in life, drugs are the problem. Steroids are also commonplace in the upbringing of foals to make them grow quicker. This doesn't allow the bones to grow properly, making for "hollow bones" (the bones are not solid). Bottom line is, because the ultimate prize in racing(the Kentucky Derby)is a race for 3 year old horses, this pushes trainers/owners to start their horses at an abusively early age. The INDUSTRY needs to change!

Posted by: Osterizer | May 5, 2008 10:44 AM

I do not agree with suspending the jockey of this horse. He is just doing his job. The trainer or owners may have told him to use the stick. But to suspend him is wrong. To take the grooms jobs away is wrong. Why can't people have a happy medium on this cause. One is to quit running babies. Let the horses mature at the age of 4 or 5 before even hitting a track? Yes, the stick should only be used to a certain degree. This sport supports a lot of blue collar people in this country and let's face it without the blue collar people the white collars wouldn't make their money now would they? I agree it is a lot about the money which makes me sick too. But it has been a long time sport. Now you don't see equestrians taking their barrel horses out at 2. You don't see the cutting horses out at 2. You don't see the jumpers out jumping at 2. So why do we see the racing horses out at 2? I think the biggest thing here is the age of these horses. I think the money is grossly used. By the way Eight Belles was not "KILLED" she was euathanized. PETA should know this all too well.
Dog fighting is not a sport it is a crime. It doesn't even compare to horse racing. If your going to compare it then they would put two stallions in a pen and take bets on which one will come out alive!!!
I don't support PETA. I believe in them doing an autopsy on the filly. Just in case. But I'll always stick to the age of the horses. She was just too young. May she rest in peace over the rainbow bridge. May she enjoy eternity in a big green pasture running again.
For Love of the animals!!

Posted by: Bonnie | May 5, 2008 10:49 AM

I keep hearing that this was a fluke accident and I don't believe that. I don't think Seaz intentionally meant to for her to get hurt but he pushed that poor horse way to hard and he should be punished for it. I've ridden horses for years and there is no way he couldn't tell there was a problem.

Posted by: Kelley | May 5, 2008 10:51 AM

I am a PETA supporter. I am also constantly learning, so I do not purpote to know anything more than the sorrow in my heart at seeing the demise of Eight Belles.

I know nothing of horse racing other than what I have seen & heard on posts today. It 'appears' rather barbaric, with whipping, but what do I know of horse hide and cues that jockeys use?

I do believe that horse racing is not in the best interest of those beautiful animals because---if God built their cannon bones to be so fragile, (as another poster mentioned), they are not meant to run in racetracks, neck & neck, at full force.

If one observed a herd of thoroughbreds in the wild, what would we see? would they race each other? Would they choose sand? Or would they prefer fields? I believe that to take an animal out of its NATURAL environment and ask it to do things which are unnatural (such as circus animals) for human entertainment; that is inhumane.

Aside from some of the lower-end comments here, there have been some thought provoking posts from both sides of the issue. Please, continue the dialogue.

I think we can mostly agree that a few people make a LOAD of money off these animals, and it sounds infuriating to most of us. It sould like the livelihood of many in the industry is small, but the emotional investment is high... you all love your horses...
So add the greed of a handful (and the BETTING PUBLIC) and the death of an innocent and majestic animal and you have a recipe for an explosive debate that is unfortunately spinning its own life ,,,,

I dont see the dogfighting connection. But let's talk about the natural behavior of horses....anyone???

Posted by: Trisha Dobie | May 5, 2008 10:55 AM

Plain and simple, there are too many horses on the track at one time. If horseracing is to continue for the sick delight of so many people, a demand to limit the entries should be added to the list Peta has posted. Such a beautiful animal; so young; my heart is broken.

Posted by: Cheryl Balster | May 5, 2008 11:04 AM

For this Liz person going after liz morrissey, they DID NOT "KILL" her in front of thousands. They put up a tent so the crowd does not have to see it, because believe it or not, many people are heartbroken that she was injured. Just like someone else said, a dead horse is a dead horse and YES it is a tragedy, but to say they aren't saddened by her death is the cruel thing. You CANNOT compare dog fighting to horse racing. You can compare dog fighting to cock fighting because it is VIOLENT! The point of that is to KILL another animal. The point of horse racing is not to kill another animal but to race horses. YES! Horses are raised to race. They are raced for pleasure just like they were raised to work a long time ago. She was not "mercilessly beaten" across the finish line. They use pop whips which actually pop, not beat, the animal. If you bend a belt in half and put you hand in the middle, its the same feeling. Get your facts straight and actually help animals that need help. Like the man that just let a lot of his horses die of starvation and rot in his fields because he was too sick to get them food and take care of them. If you're going to attack something PETA, attack the real cruelty, instead of attacking jockeys, and trainers and owners who live their lives to make these horses happy. The only thing Im disgusted at is how many people throw their BS opinion out there about the wrong situation instead of getting their facts straight.

Posted by: stevie kerrison | May 5, 2008 11:05 AM

Yes, Eight Belles death is tragic, but the fact remains that it was a freak accident. Bramlage, Churchill's vet, has said that he has never seen or heard of anything like it happening in a race, let alone so far after the finish. His Jockey and trainer aren't to blame (So stop calling for the suspension of poor Saez). Jockeys are the first to feel something is wrong, and they do their best to pull the horse up immediately. Saez stated that he tried to pull her up. He wasn't successful, but others have been. Remember Chris Antley with Charismatic or Edgar Prado with Barbaro? both of those horses would be dead too if it weren't for the action of their jockeys.

Whips have nothing to do with it either. The majority of racehorses give their all whether the whip is being used or not. It's used more often to keep the horse running in a straight line and prevent it from running into the rail or another horse.

If you really want to blame someone, blame the breeders, who keep breeding horses that were retired due to injury. The thoroughbred breed has been made frailer and frailer because of the breeding practices. Proof? Look back to the 50s and earlier, when horses raced almost every other week. You didn't see them breaking down. When horses are raced so little and break down so often, you can't blame trainers and jockeys. You have to blame the breeders.

Posted by: Katharine | May 5, 2008 11:05 AM

What should happen is we should take the jockey and the owner of the horse: We should whip them around the track till their legs break and then force them to continue the race. Then afterwards we should euthanize them as well. That would be justice!

Posted by: Lisa | May 5, 2008 11:12 AM

Yesterday afternoon I made a post here that contained a link to a video that shows Eight Belles during the race where her head twists back and veers to the right, then she took a few strides sideways. After that the jockey started using the whip. I don't understand why that post was not approved.
Also, someone was at Michael Matz's barn at Keeneland ten days before the race and saw Eight Belles grazing outside the next barn. She had a filled right ankle.
Personally, I think that owner Rick Porter should have stuck to his car dealership and the trainer, Larry Jones, should have stuck to wearing his cowboy hats on his farm. The jockey must have known something was wrong. I think they all should be held accountable.
The horses are bred with a narrow gene pool, pushed too young and too hard before their bone structure is fully developed. Then given drugs like lasix which leeches minerals. A large majority of the horses end up with bleeding lungs and gastric ulcers. They suffer so humans can be entertained and the owners can make money. The horses pay the ultimate price for human arrogance and greed.
Many are sold off to auction after the owners have taken what they could from them, only to face a horrific death at a slaughterhouse.
It is sick.

Posted by: Lin | May 5, 2008 11:12 AM

I have always thought horse racing was cruel .. the sight of horses leaping over hurdles under duress and enforced/trained to gallop around the track at immense speed and whippped by their 112 lbs plus burdens weighed down on their backs (the jockeys).. this latest episode just goes further to why I think this horrid sport should be outlawed.. as with all the other ghastly sports where animals are used.. all of them..

Posted by: lizbeth | May 5, 2008 11:14 AM

i'm happy to know that Peta is calling it like they see it.

even five minutes of research will show what a brutal 'sport' horse racing is.

good work.

Posted by: Peter | May 5, 2008 11:18 AM

How can we continue to condone such inhumane treatment of animals?! I'm sure some will say it's "tradition" to horse race but isn't it "tradition" in some 3 world countries to have dog fighting?! Does it make it right?! NO. Just because it has "always been" doesn't make it right to continue to put this lovely animals though this everyday. The risks are too high that will alow one beautiful animal to have to be put down because of such accidents that we all know are common in horses. Please ban horse races and protect this beautiful animals. Many thanks ~k

Posted by: Karen | May 5, 2008 11:20 AM

To say the jockey should be banned is ridiculous and shows a total lack of understanding. He had zero incentive to drive an injured horse to the wire. She crossed the line with her ears forward showing no signs of distress. If she was in pain her gait would have showed it!!! Whip or no whip! Had he knowingly driven her to the wire while injured he would be in trouble and possibly face a ban - and lose his job and reputation. Not to mention the money she would bring as a broodmare would far outweigh her take of the purse. I happen to own an ex-racer. How many people posting these emotional outbursts of rage are horse owners and really have a clue about horses? That being said I don't support starting horses under 3, but I cannot stand the total lack of understanding on these posts. If you really, really want to do something then give money to groups like LOPE and CANTER that help find injured and retired racers homes.

Posted by: carolyn | May 5, 2008 11:22 AM

When someones says to me they felt bad about what happen to Eight Bells, I ask them did you bet on that horse or the race...when they said yes, I said then you are part of the reason that filly died...when people stop betting on the horses and not a day before will it end...cause in the end...It is all about the mighty dollar!!!

Posted by: Laura | May 5, 2008 11:23 AM

I know many of you wont make it down this far to read my 2 cents (probably you will treat this as less than 2/10ths of a cent) but here I go.

I also somewhat agree with PETA and your values, however you attack things that you dont understand and do not even make yourself seem like you are educated in your opinions.

Horses are creatures that RUN!!! They do this in the wild and it is something they do! Accidents, as unfortunate as they are happen. They will happen if the horse is in the wild or even in captivity.

The Grand National in Aintree has 40 horses that jump for over 2 miles.... this is MUCH more intense than the Kentucky Derby. The funny thing is over half of the horses will end up either falling or loosing their jockey.... 90% of those KEEP RUNNING IN THE FRONT!!!! If they did not want to run why would they keep going???? Why, that is recreational for them. Deny a horse running, why not deny a bird from flying.... they can get hit by a car, a plane, run across turbulents and fall from the sky, so LETS STOP BIRDS FROM FLYING TO PROTECT THEM.

Get off of your high horse (pardon the pun) and attack industries that truly do abuse animals.

These horses are not drugged of steroids.... they are banned!!! Lasix is the main drug that is used and it aids in cardiovascular movement (many say this drug does nothing at all). IT DOES NOT INCREASE PERFORMANCE!!!! Research a topic before you before you make uneducated releases.

Dogs should all be let loose as that is how it used to be, they will be "wild", birds shouldn't fly because it IS dangerous, Whales and Dolphins CAN drown so lets take them out of the water so they don't, and lets keep saying worthless crap that we don't understand to reinforce the fact that we are less intelligent than the animals we are defending

Posted by: Me | May 5, 2008 11:26 AM

ABC news posted this:
Injuries like Eight Belles' aren't uncommon in an industry in which thoroughbreds can run 45 mph at full speed. Every year, hundreds of horses collapse on America's racing tracks after leaving the starting gate, and many of them die.

By some estimates, two horses face career-ending injuries on the race track every day, and there have been on average 1.5 deaths for every 1,000 starts in American racing, according to various studies conducted at 10 American racecourses over the past few seasons.

Posted by: Terri | May 5, 2008 11:32 AM

This was my first and last horse race I will ever watch. I watched it just because it was on and I was heart broken watching the horses get whipped and then Eight Belles getting euthanized in the end. I will never watch the sport again and I hope action is taken.

Posted by: John Wilmoth | May 5, 2008 11:33 AM

I've just spent the morning reading all the postings so far. One in particular caught my attention (as a new member of the Old Friends organization for retired Thoroughbreds) I can say for fact that once a racehorse's career is over they CAN and DO fall into the wrong hands... take Ferdinand for example. Derby winner in 1986 ended up being sold to a Japanese group, didn't produce any "winners" and went to the slaughter house. So "Tim", your information is wrong. Next, the jockey is young and it was his first race of caliber (so lay off the jockey) yes, a more experienced rider would have noticed something was wrong and pulled her up sooner but, have you ever tried to stop a freight train with a piece of string? What I want to know is WHY this horse was allowed to race? (aside from the obvious answer) I point the finger at the Trainer and the Vet and the NTRA. The Trainer and Vet knew the risks when they saddled that filly on Saturday and they went ahead with the race anyway. It doesn't make us Trainers look very good at all. One more thing, where was PETA at the Derby? PETA shows up ALL the time at Rodeos so why not the Derby? Unless I missed it completely. Well, the owner's made out fine, (I'm sure the filly was insured for a ridiculous amount). I guess that's what it's all about in the end anyway, right? The old, mighty dollar.

Posted by: Janie | May 5, 2008 11:33 AM

As someone who grew up in the louisville tristate area, and loved watching the horses i am disgusted as i get older and realize what really goes into this so called "sport". I want everyone who bets, watches or supports this "sport" to truly examine how these animals are USED to further your amusement!

Posted by: Karessa | May 5, 2008 11:34 AM

This is an Outrage! The Kentucky Derby Has Been going on for 134 years.Race horses have very fagile bones. With such presure on the bones of the horse, they have a tendincy to break. Eight Belles Ran Bravely and Gracefully. Putting her down is a shame but there wasn't any chance she would recover.
Don't sue the Jocky it wasn't his fault! He probally cared a lot about Eight Belles.

Posted by: Rach | May 5, 2008 11:36 AM

Dear PETA:

I am a former horse owner and breeder of thoroughbred race horses. I have also bee a life long fan. I understand your sadness at the loss of Eight Belles. It is a horrible tragedy. Sadly, the loss of many of these great athletes occurs more often than many in the racing industry would like to see. The death of any of these great animals is heartbreacking. This having been said please understand that - unlike many tragic racing accidents - this did not occur during the race. To blame the Jockey is irresonpsible on your part. The horse galloped out past the finish, her ears were up (which is a sign of hapiness). If she had been injured during the race it would have been impossible for her to have finished as strongly as she did. I support your efforts to bring awareness to the issue of safety in the industry. Please understand it would aid your position if you presented the facts responsibly.

Posted by: John Coffey | May 5, 2008 11:42 AM

this is an outrage! i have worked at the race track for 3 yrs and i have seen horses die and be fixed but a horse killed infront of thousands maybe millions? absolutly redicllous! i will protest with the many others who are disturbed by the tragic events that happend not more then 72 hrs ago

Posted by: tiffany | May 5, 2008 11:44 AM

I think that people throw around the term "cruelty" to loosely. There is nothing cruel about racing horses. They are born to run, it is what they were created to do, and if anything would make a horse happy, it would be to let it run and race.

Now, it becomes cruel if owners and trainers neglect their horses. Brutalize them. Starve them. etc..

But, that is not the case here.

Posted by: Barbaro | May 5, 2008 11:46 AM

I will admitt that I shed a few tears, the minute I saw that Eight Belles was on the ground I knew that she was gong to be put down. The filly ran her heart out, she gave it her all and was undoubtably the best in the entire field, despiete only coming in second.

That being said, I watched the Derby several more times, trying to figure out were the ingury occured. If you watch closely, you wou see that the ingury occured when Eight Belles triped over herself as she was being pulled up. If she had weak legs and was not up to handleing a race such as thise then she wouldn't have been run in the Derby but rather in the Oakes where she would have easily won. Her tripping was no doubt a product of her fatigue, but her broken legs did not occur during the race! The facture would have caused her to drop the minute it occured, which is what she did AFTER she ran. The jockey is not the person you should be throwing all of your blame onto.

Posted by: Grace | May 5, 2008 11:48 AM

Eight Belles collapsed a full quarter mile past the finish...To say the jockey tried to stop her on a dime immediately after the finish is foolish....

Posted by: George | May 5, 2008 11:54 AM

Horseracing as well as Eventing are two dangerous sports for both horse and rider. Eventing must be the most dangerous sport out there. Two horses are already dead and one girl in critical condition from the start of the Rolex competition last week. Last year seven human deaths as well as many horses. I beleive PETA would benefit by going after the smaller racetracks where some real nasty stuff goes on to those horses. I am a horse owner and to me this is all a damn shame.

Posted by: Jenny | May 5, 2008 12:00 PM

I don't understand why the jockeys have to use whips on the horses. You don't see trainers using whips on human beings in the Olympic games! Whipping is CRUEL! Plain and simple!

Posted by: Ivonne | May 5, 2008 12:02 PM

Dear PETA:
Would it be possible for PETA to have a peaceful protest against horse racing at the next two horse races? Preakness in Baltimore is on May 17 and I'm not too sure when the Belmont is. Thanks!

Posted by: Diane | May 5, 2008 12:04 PM

Dear PETA,

I have been an avid fan of most of your causes for many years now. Your dedication to making the lives of animals is touching and I thank everyone of you for trying to better the lives of the creatures that we bring into our lives.

That being said, I must admitt that I am angered by your response to the death of Eight Belles.

It seems that many of your 'dedicated'are using Eight Belles death to bash horse racing. While I am not a fan of beating your horse with a crop, I hope many of you realize that Thoroughbred, whether they race or not, are born to run. I own a 5 year old Thoroughbred with almost no racing background and I often take him to an open track in the area and let him run. He LOVES it, we fly around the track and it takes all my strength to pull him up. He is born to do this, his sleek body and long legs are built for this, we have merely turned into a sport. Whipping them angers me, if the hrose doesn't want to go as fast as you want him to, dont make him. However many of these horses want to run and they need to run because its natural for them. To cage a thoroughbred is like trying to keep us from breathing.

What happened to Eight Belles was tragic, and unfortunatly the racnig world has its sleezes and it's scum bags. But it also has its dedicated grooms, its compassionate owners and its wise trainers. You cannot condem a world you know nothing about. Half of you are making unfound accusations and are makingyourselves look stupid, so just stop. It infurates me to see people who are calling for the jockey to banned and for the owners to die because of their 'crocidile' tears. You need to get your facts straight, and more importantly you need to stop using the death of a beautiful animal to fuel your hatred, find other reason and maybe some facts and present them at another time instead of taking advantage of the death of an innocent.

Thank you
Annie

Posted by: Annie | May 5, 2008 12:05 PM

All sports can be dangerous. Its going to happen... I like the rest of you are very saddened about this whole thing. I watched the race and was hoping that the first filly in 9 years might win. I was sad just to see her not winning and when I saw that she collapsed I was in shock. I own a Thoroughbred gelding who retired from New Zealand horse racing. Thoroughbreds have VERY delicate legs ankles and hoofs. I do not blame the trainer nor the jockey. The dirt on the track at Churchill Downs is not that hard... Have you ever tried to run through soft sand? They definetly need new rules. I will not support stopping the races because it is an American tradition and it will NOT be that easy but if anyone is up for protesting about the rules and making a new SAFER track, Im there....... Until then, Eight Belles will be missed and Im sure not forgotten...... Hopefully in horsey heaven she'll have a lighter work load....

Posted by: Maria Perolio | May 5, 2008 12:08 PM

People who won any money because of Eight Belles should donate it to PETA or another charitable organization. It is the ethical thing to do. How could anyone keep money that they won during circumstances like that?

Posted by: Lucy | May 5, 2008 12:10 PM

I am an animal lover myself, but comments like this idiot person left is giving all of you a bad name. Apparently he loves the animals more than the actual human.

Quoted from Carol C "I would be very surprised if Gabriel Saez is suspended, more likely he will be treated as a hero who went through a traumatic time. I hope that one day, somebody takes a horsewhip to him,and beats him to within an inch of his life. I only wish it could be me. "
All of the statements following say things like people rotting in Hell and various things.
You have a good cause but people take it entirely too far.

Posted by: Steve K | May 5, 2008 12:12 PM

Just how cruel can people be and still claim they belong to the human race. What happened to eight bells is just un-forgivable and to all other animals who suffer at the so called "HUMAN" care takers. Money,money,money is what it all boils down to, making it even a sicker reason to allow animal cruelty to continue. Animals can't speak for themselves and are completely at our mercy. Jesus was sold and crucified for 30 pieces of silver. Get the picture?? Thank you PETA for standing up for animal rights and all the caring people who keep trying to stop this greedy and inhumane sport.

Posted by: Lois | May 5, 2008 12:12 PM

OK, I have never owned a horse, but even I know that with two broken front legs, no one could "adopt" her, or send her to pasture. Horses have to stand on 4 legs to support their weight. Poor Barbaro broke a HIND leg, and couldn't survive. So she had to be put down. That being said, something must change in the racing industry. This race has been run for 100 years and never had an injury like this-so what is going on?

Posted by: SUE, Michigan | May 5, 2008 12:14 PM

BAN THE INHUMANE SPORT!! And let me whip the jockey like he did the horse. Press onward PETA - put a Michael Vick "asskicking" on these people. Let the corporate sponsors know that PETA (and PETA's audience/supporters) can and will roll them into bankruptcy if they continue to back this inhumane treatment of horses.

Posted by: Angie | May 5, 2008 12:22 PM

I'm no PETA person, but I must say this tradegy on Saturday really bothered me. The winning jockey said it best, "the horse gave her life for our entertainment." That's just not right. I've showned and raised horses for 16 years, no horse should be driven that hard until they're bones are completely developed which is around 5 years. I understand the Europeans wait, I'm sure the US doesn't because of the money involved in the training/breeding/betting etc. Wrong, wrong, wrong!!!
I strongly feel that PETA has ruined their cause, by some of the crazy things they do. So if there is protesting by PETA at the Preakness/Belmont it will be laughed off and not taken seriously by the media and the Jockey Club. I believe there should be an ambassador (like Angina Jolie is to Darfur.) not necessarily associated with PETA. It would have to be someone pretty well respected. Perhaps they could get the Jockey Club (or maybe Senate hearings) to listen. I know changes can be made because there's been numerous changes in other Horse Associations. ie. Tennessee Walkers

Posted by: Carol | May 5, 2008 12:25 PM

Oh Please.
However,however,however.
Simply because something is tradition does not make it right. Horses love to run, yes. Under natural conditions in a field, not on a noisy track while having their skin whipped and being pushed to the absolute limit.The athletes often have psychological issues such as anorexia . The horses are treated well for the most part because they are money makers, and this fits with the image of wealth.If you really love your horse unconditionally I do not know how you can subject him/her to such stress.Breeding does not justify the situation. Animals are bred so large that they can barely stand for food purposes. Bulldogs are bred with heads so large that they are often delivered by surgical means. It is disgusting to hear that what happened to Eight Belles was simply part of the sport. There is a huge difference between basketball,football etc and horse racing. The athletes are all there by choice and they are never worked to death. Animals are not ours for entertainment and money making. Peta does alot for animals and horse racing is a "real" issue.

Posted by: Annalena | May 5, 2008 12:35 PM

All because of greed, how sick.

Posted by: Betty | May 5, 2008 12:36 PM

I don’t necessarily agree with everything PETA does however; with the tragedy that occurred this weekend I look to PETA to do something. I believe there should be an end to horse racing and some kind of action has to be taken!

Posted by: Tasha | May 5, 2008 12:36 PM

To try to blame the jockey for what happened to Eight Belles is absolutely absurd. If she had been injured in the race you would have notice a change in her stride right away (ie Charasmatic in the 1999 Belmont Stakes), so to say the jockey should have sensed that is ridiculous. Other than the racing itself, these horses are treated better than most humans. If you want to find a cause to champion to protect these racehorses, help support those who are trying to rid the sport of the use of drugs. The use of these drugs help mask any discomfort these animals are feeling. That is the real enemy in any of these situations, not the rider or the race itself. These horses are pumped full of these drugs and you never know if they are feeling good because they are healthy or because they are on a drug high. Take a look back in the history of the sport before the advent of the wide use of these drugs and you will see that horses ran more often and retired completely sound. Nowadays the average horse starts 8-9 times in a career when the horses of yesterday started that many times in a year.

So take a look at the real root of the evil of the industry, instead of going after a rider who is doing his job and putting his life in jeopardy everytime he goes into a race. I wonder if she had broken down in that race, going full speed and the jockey was injured if you would even care as much???? Personally I dont think so.

Posted by: Ron Druga | May 5, 2008 12:38 PM

I'M THE WIFE OF THE LATE JOCKEY AKILI GRAY& MOTHER OF HIS
2 SETS OF TWINS AGES 4&6 AND SINCE MY HUSBANDS INCIDENT ON 7-2-2005 IN FREDRICKSBURG TEXAS.I FEEL THAT HIS INJURIES WERE INTENTIAL & DEATH UNTIMELY. WHY WASN'T THESES JOCKEY 'S FINED THAT TOOK AWAY MY HUSBAND&KIDS FATHER. QUESTION IN THE USA IS AN ANIMAL LIFE MORE IMPORTANT THAN A HUMAN?

Posted by: Tracy Gray | May 5, 2008 12:38 PM

I was pondering after this horrible tragedy why with some of the wealthiest people involved in this sport that someone does not come forward and established a non-profit farm to retire these so dedicated and willing animals. Did anyone watch the undercover story on NBC (i think) about 6 years ago on horse slaughtering and what living hell these once proud animals go through the last moments of death and not giving any kind of dignity and peace before they are food. Yes, people in this business will pass around these animals like old shoes once they can no longer make money or breed champion off spring. It is outrgeous that we call ourselves a civilized society. I wish the public would have acccess to the behind the scenes of the black, evil hell these horses are left to endure the end of their lives. This horse was lucky as crazy as it might seem she did not end up living in hell days and weeks maybe a decade or two down the road just to be slaughtered in a horrible manner with so much pain and suffering felt by a horse that was once loved by man, who now feels no sympathy for the suffering she will go through. I am sure some of her track mates will not have a peaceful end to their lives.

As far as dog racing, it is even worse where nonperforming dogs are left to starve to death in cages as some owners are too cheap to let them go out of this world peacefully.

Posted by: Melinda Rawls | May 5, 2008 12:39 PM

I have yet to read on your website where someone has wept for the 7 people killed in Arkansas Tornadoes last week. The death toll in the Myanmar cyclone may hit 10,000 and yet no one mentions them. Has your organization become so hardcore that they don't weep and mourn the death or humans? Let face it horses are animals period. Maybe your time would be better spent with the "real" problems of the world.

Posted by: Mark | May 5, 2008 12:40 PM

Will they carve up Eight Belles and sell horse steaks?

Posted by: Mike | May 5, 2008 12:43 PM

If anyone is to criticized about the possible demise of Eight Belles it should be the owner and trainer for running her in a race that she was forced to put her life on the line with a maximum effort. Running against the male horses had to take its toll.

Many people also noted two things before the Derby:

Eight Belles bore in badly in the race at Oaklawn--was something already amiss?

Why was the 180+ pound trainer continuing to agressively gallop the filly in her works? The extra wear and tear on her due to the excess weight might have taken its toll!!

Posted by: Mister Horsey | May 5, 2008 12:44 PM

Wow- there are so many uneducated people who jump on the PETA bandwagon without doing an ounce of research. I agree, Eight Belles' death was indeed tragic. I have owned, raised and shown horses for 30 years. I have adopted ex racers. Those horses LOVE to run. Things happen, freak accidents can happen to a horse while he is running in the pasture. Believe me, in 30 years I've seen a couple. Should we race these horses at a young age? Well, that's a good point to ponder. Could we improve the conditions and make it safer? Another good point to ponder. But to slander the trainer and the jockey, come on people, they cared about that horse. Now to kick them when they are down... you should ALL be ASHAMED of yourselves. If it is about the money, then I would imagine that with all the money it takes to get a horse that far, then you can bet your arse that they are going to be taking care of that horse. Reality check, there are thousands of middle class horses starving and neglected by their owners more so than those that are being raced. Go to your local sale barn, now that's tragic. Not to mention NOW that upstanding agencies like PETA have worked so hard to close the slaughter plants, horses are being transported past the regulatory reach of the animal welfare act. There is no AVMA Panel on Euthanasia or Animal Welfare Act for those horses. Think about the conditions they will endure, not to mention how they will eventually be killed. People get a grip. At the least, get educated before you get on a soapbox or join forces with an organization that preys on your lack of education, or emotions.

Posted by: Melissa | May 5, 2008 12:44 PM

Any animal racing should be abolished!! Worse things happen every day to greyhound, etc. It just so happened to get attention this time because it was on national television.

Hopefully people will realize that cruelty to animals, should not be a tradition.

Posted by: Melissa | May 5, 2008 12:46 PM

Horse racing is a very sick and shameful spectacle, an inside display of wanton human stupidity and careless greed. Yet another perverse form of animal cruelty, all in the name of money, "glamor" and profit. There is no excuse for this type of barbaric animal cruelty, i think the comparisons to dog fighting raised by many here are valid and succinct. Also the comparisons to the Barbaro tragedy are not misguided. It's not in the horses blood to be cruelly beaten and whipped while running around a circular track at breakneck speed, only to satisfy others. Horse racing is a cruel sport and little else, just the fact that many horses get sent to slaughter shows the dark and inhumane side of this sport. There is nothing legendary about getting sent to a slaughterhouse once you no longer become productive or can't run fast enough.

Posted by: vegancoin | May 5, 2008 12:49 PM

If PETA really wanted to do something to address the issues and harm in horse racing they would start with the BREEDERS CUP. This is a race of the worldest finest 2 year olds. Horses should not even be ridden before they are 3 when the bones in their legs have fused. This $25 MILLION dollar purse is all about the money and it is the most abusive and inappropirate of all the races.

Posted by: Jennifer Mark | May 5, 2008 12:50 PM

I agree with Gabriella. It was very sad what happened to Eight Belles, but Horse racing is not abuse! if they starve the horses and run the hell out of them then yes. I would agree! but most of the owners of these horses are very caring of their horses and will do anything to make sure they are taken care of 100%! If they would have been able to see and or predict what was going to happen to Eight Belles legs, I'm willing to bet they would not have run her at all. some of you need to think a bit more before you speak!!

Posted by: S.R.H. | May 5, 2008 12:52 PM

I live in the city that is home to the KY Derby. All my life, I've been caught up in the excitement of the Oaks and Derby, watching it on my family's first black & white t.v. in the 50's. Sometimes it takes more than one tragedy to make a person realize that something is wrong.

20 yrs. ago, we took my mother-in-law to Churchill Downs for a day at the races. During one of the races, a horse broke down on the track. They pitched a tent and destroyed the horse.

The next wake-up was the tragedy of Barbaro.

The last straw was Eight Belles' death.

Horse racing is wrong, albeit for money, sport, rivalry, etc. I often wonder how we humans think we are superior to all other beings in the heavens, on the earth, or in the water. We are not! What animals in general do in the wild is for survival, from instinct. Horse racing is not instinctual; it is a narcissistic, hedonistic, man-made form of animal torture.

I will not ever watch another horse race nor engage in any activity that would lend it credence. I am ashamed of ever having done so.

If horse racing is the "sport of kings," let's put a saddle on their backs.

Posted by: Bernadette | May 5, 2008 12:54 PM

Tragic. What ever happened to civilized people? Who gives anyone the right to believe horses or any other animals are placed on the earth for the entertainment of humanity? Animals do not make the decision to participate in sporting events, humans do. What a sad, crazy, foolish and greedy world we all live in; applaud PETA for being a voice of the innocent.
What about the public corporations that support & own these events? Shame on all of them.

Posted by: Jan | May 5, 2008 01:01 PM

I think Steven doth protest too much. Horse racing is the sport of kings and only different from the ancient Roman circuses in that they use horses rather than people to amuse the rich.

Posted by: Bob G. | May 5, 2008 01:03 PM

The problem with these horses is not necessarliy the 'breeding'. Yes, strong bone structure can be passed down, but that's not the 'main cause' of the injuries the race horses sustain. It's mostly due to the fact that these horses are fed 'very high' protein feeds, stalled up with little or no turn out and when they do get out they explode with energy in which the trainers use on the track. Because of the breeding and heavy feeding, these horses grow very fast but yet their bones are not near strong enough to endure the rigerous training which starts as a yearling. This is WAY TO YOUNG to start 'any' horse. Their knees are not fused together until they are around 4 years old. The 'biggest' problem is the greed of the trainers and owners who only see these horses as dollar figures. The biggest money for these horses is during the age of 2 and 3 years old when they are eligible for 'futurities.' Even though they are pampered as far as outward appearance goes, they are abused because of the almighty dollar. These young horses should not have to be subject to such stress that their bones break like sticks because of the their big hearts. I'm not against horse racing, just the fact that 2 year old horses are still considered babies and they shouldn't even see a saddle until they turn 2 years old not be asked for their life at 2! I would like to see some law enforced for the age of competition age to be raised to 4 years old and up. Any suggestions as to how to go about getting this changed?

Posted by: Shelly | May 5, 2008 01:05 PM

WOW!!!!! That's all I can say about PETAS wish. To have the jockey suspended? Give me a break, he didnt try and kill this horse it was a freak accident. How can you call for his suspension, you're on the way wrong issue there. I grew up in horse racing in Kentucky, worked with them forever as my parents own them, i no longer work there as its a hectic 7 day a week job, no days off. ANYHOW, this particular jockey rides about 95% of all his mounts for this stable, in which i did work for , for 1 1/2 years in 1995, this jockey was'nt there then but i can tell you these connections would do NOTHING to hurt anyone of thier horses, never, super great people and i am sure they would not deal with this rider if he didnt have the horses well being first and foremost. So to call him out you are totally incorrect. And furthermore, there is zero, absolutely zero chance of peta ever having horse racing banned, its a sport that brings so much revenues to every state, that it will never be lost. Why do you think the United States goverment that recently banned Online gambling, sports , and poke rin general( UIGEA act) did not ban horse racing? They left horse racing alone as being legal, why you may wonder, well as i said it brings in too much money for a # of causes in every state kinda like the lottery.

Posted by: Mike | May 5, 2008 01:10 PM

I would like to comment about what Liz M. said in this blog. Eight Belles was put down on the race track in front of thousands of people. She was not in the ambulance. She broke through her skin on both ankles. She didn't have feet she had numbs. She broke down near an outrider who was able to get to her and keep her on the ground. She was struggling to get up because that is there natural instinct, they are flight animals. But one outrider was on her neck to keep her down and shortly later two other outriders rode to her and used there weight to keep her down. The vet got to her, who later made the remark that he had never seen anything like that, and put her down on the spot. And then they attached her lifeless limbs to the pulleys inside the ambulance and drug her in. There were several ambulances surrounding the filly because they were trying to keep the media from getting photos. They, track management, knew if they got the pictures it would cause a huge out cry by the public. Which happend anyway. But I would like PETA to know that synthetic tracks are no better than dirt. Trainers are reporting more injuries (they aren't life threatening) and horses, lower end racehorses, are breaking track records, which means one thing, the track is hard, and that's not good. The next couple of years will truely show the damage running on hard tracks is doing. In fact it has already started. Take a look at tracks across the country they are having trouble filling there races because there is a shortage of horses.

Posted by: Jay | May 5, 2008 01:12 PM

I am appaled that you think there was something wrong with Eight Belles before she crosssed the finish line. Certainly you know nothing of horse racing and how thoroughbreds react when they are severely injured. You also know nothing of the love for these fine animals the jockeys have. To blame that jockey for that death is as absurd as saying Michael Vick did nothing wrong.

Posted by: Ron Steele | May 5, 2008 01:14 PM

Hillary Clinton encouraged us to place a bet on Eight Belles. I would like someone to interview her and ask her stance on horse racing and animal cruelty.

Posted by: James G | May 5, 2008 01:14 PM

right no i fell sick of all the anmile killing i wish they would just srop all of this i am just sick of it and i cant beleav that poor hourse. :(

Posted by: allayhana | May 5, 2008 01:16 PM

First, I believe PETA means well and has done good things to help those animals truly deserving of their assistance. I have to go back to the comment above by Bob Cabana. Here's a guy that is truely clueless and ignorant. As many of the previous comments have stated, GET THE FACTS BOB! To post such ignorant rantings (as many have done here) just shows how clueless you are! Moreover to blame a jocky for doing his job is also ignorant! The jocky was NOT whipping the horse, he was using his crop to motivate the horse just like the other jocky's! How come their horses did not break both front legs, they were all being motivated to move up. Secondly, 8 belles did in fact finish the race. The owner said he felt the horse was dealt with accordingly. So, all of the "experts" here like Bob need to wake up and realize that in ALL sports, there is going to be mishaps, even happens in many "human" sports i.e., football. Are we supposed to have the football players quit hitting each other. No more feminization. Accept it and deal with it. Then Bob, get over it!

Posted by: Jeff Hayes | May 5, 2008 01:26 PM

Dear Matthew....

A horse can feel a mesquito landing on his skin--you're statement about their hide being thick and they don't feel the whip is completely false. I have two Arabians and I merely have to touch my finger against them and they will step aside for me.

Beating a horse to make them run is cruelty. Hopefully, Eight Belles tragic death will finaly force these "good ole' boys" to make significant changes that benefit the HORSE!!!

I challenge you to allow a jockey to beat you across your lower ribcage with their crop about 10 times and come back to me and tell me you don't feel it or it doesn't hurt?

Posted by: Susan T | May 5, 2008 01:30 PM

5/5/08
We watched the tragic injury to Eight Belles during the Kentucky Derby.
She should NOT have been racing this race. There are reasons why there are no females playing in the NFL. It is too dangerous and they have a choice not to. This poor filly did not.
The owner and trainer should be put in the prison cell next to Michael Vick. These uncaring people project animal abuse on wonderful horses everyday for pure greed. It needs to be
stopped.
Please help in achieving the following:
Raise the age limit to 4 years before a horse can be raced.
Do not allow fillies to race in races that might be dangerous for them.
Become a voice for the voiceless(the horses) in the sport of horse racing.
STOP THE ABUSE OF ANIMALS IN THE SPORT OF HORSE RACING

Posted by: Williams | May 5, 2008 01:31 PM

I guess what makes me so "sick" about this incident, is that she had been run the previous day too. How much money did they want from her in a couple of days time. I think the owners, trainers and all who were involved should be investigated. I thought these horses were supposed to have rest time between races. I'm totally disgusted at horseracing now. And, there should, at the very least, be more stringent rules placed on racing, i.e., such as length of time between races. Barbaro was bad with one hind leg, but both front ankles on Eight Belles?! I kinda feel like the jockey should have felt something in her stride and could have stopped. This is just too much, and yes, I am begining to think it is a lot of pit bull fighting or cock fighting. Money is all that matters, not the animals.

Posted by: LindaMccray | May 5, 2008 01:35 PM

Dear Kevin Williams my hat off to you. Thanks for the level headed letter to the commission. It is a no brainer that the age of the race horse needs to change. They are too young, and I would like to see training start at the age of 4.

Posted by: Patty | May 5, 2008 01:36 PM

For Liz Morrisey: If Eight Belles wasn't killed in front of thousand and she was put down in the ambulance; How can I see pictures on Yahoo of the vet having a huge pink needle headed towards her, and read that they could get her in the ambulance? Maybe you need to look at the facts again!

Posted by: Scott G | May 5, 2008 01:43 PM

What happend to Eight Bells is just WRONG! horse racing is such a cruel sport. These horses are beaten and really it makes me mad and upset. In my mind i believe that horse racing should be outlawed and not televised...

if some horses dont do well they are beaten or worse they could be shipped for food. if some people believe this is ok i couldn't believe why they would say that...she was killed in front of thousands of people that were at the track and watching it on TV...

Posted by: Jade | May 5, 2008 01:43 PM

I am uncomfortable with the way Peta has reported this incident. Eight Belles was not whipped mercilessly, she was not "killed" on the track. She suffered injuries that she would have never recovered from, and was euthanized as a result. She was doing what she loved to do--running.
A majority of the posts I have read show some disturbing hatred towards humans in general. Most of you are ridiculously ignorant and/or misinformed on the subject of horse racing, horse owners, and horses in general. You have no idea what you are talking about, but your typical human desire to "belong" clouds your judgement and keeps you insanely fighting for a cause that getting increasingly irrational.

Posted by: Donna | May 5, 2008 01:47 PM

They should end horse racing all-together, its a weird sport anyway.

It would be more interesting to see people running around the track with those little jockeys on their backs, whipping anyway at them, that would be so funny, and much more entertaining to watch.

Posted by: animalsarenotathletes | May 5, 2008 01:47 PM

Thank God for Peta!!!!! Peta is a voice for all animals. Peta is the best thing that has happen to help all animals!!!!!!! Peta rocks in my book!!!!!!!! Peta informs us of things that some of us would never have known. I hope Peta grows bigger and bigger. Peta is all animals best friend in my book!!!!!!!!!!!! Peta brings the nasty things that happens to animals behind doors out to the public where we all need to see because animals can not talk. Peta is a voice to all animals. When a animal can not say HELP!!! Peta says it for them. I LOVE PETA !!!!!!!!!!!! Thank You Peta!!!!!!

Posted by: Tamra Mullins | May 5, 2008 01:53 PM

This is so sad that this horse had to because of the greedy jockey and owner that she was run and beat to death and now will have to be turned in tyo glue i am so sad by this i just can not stop crying for her and her horse momma and daddy that are obviously abused in their barns and stalls probably starved and beaten on a daily basis i think all horse racing should be banned and we should let all these beautiful creatures free to run wild in the prairie

Posted by: Why??/ | May 5, 2008 02:01 PM

The problem with the argument PETA is making is that horses on farms and in the wild are FAR more prone to accidents (and death) than horses bred for racing. Horse racing is a beautiful sport that sometimes turns tragic. The respect for these animals is far more respect than most of these comments show for even human life. PETA usually gets my vote, but not this time. This is an uninformed argument.

Posted by: Jason S | May 5, 2008 02:04 PM

I am a strong PETA supporter. I get the newsletters and I get requests to sign petitions all the time. I have signed many of them and I am a monthly donator to the organization. However, sometimes I think PETA jumps the gun on things. I don't recall ever getting a petition about banning horseracing unless there was a recent incident, which seem to be few. If you disagree with horseracing, why weren't you petitioning BEFORE the Derby, like you petition against the circus BEFORE it comes to town. I love the fact that PETA is so devoted to animals and I am proud to be a supporter - but please make sure you know all of the facts!

Posted by: staci | May 5, 2008 02:19 PM

Jay- Your comment touched me. Reading where they held eight bellies down and the horse wanted up. Can you imagin how the horse felt wanting to get up,tired and then people on you and then your killed.I hate that!!!! Will never watch no Derby again!! This whole thing made me sick!!! Again- Animals are not put here for people to abuse and get rich on.The whole thing was so sad.Very sad!!!!!!!

Posted by: Tamra Mullins | May 5, 2008 02:23 PM

i am so sad that i had to call in work today because i cant not stop crying it is so tragic that i think all the people that work in the horse industry should be whipped and dragged to death because they inflict cruel punishment on horses that just want to live and be lovwed not run to death and whipped to death so hard they break they legs in two and have to be shot righht on the track let the horses run free and death to all jockeys&^$%%^!$%^!#&

Posted by: Jamie | May 5, 2008 02:23 PM

I want to start out saying that I appreciate the good peta does but I think you all need to calm down. To horses, a whip in the thigh feels like a pinch to us. It is just a motivation tactic to get them running at top speeds. Yes it is sad the horses knees buckled (after the race) but you don't need make things up like the owners shed crocodile tears. They were sad OK? It is not as cruel as peta makes it seem. In all sports there are always mistakes. What about when the jocky's get hurt on the track? I have seen it happen before, why don't you get a forum for that too? I don't get you guys. Maybe there should be a site called PETP, people for the ethical treatment of people. People get tortured too, make a site protesting that. Blaming the jockey is absurd, he was just on it's back. And if they can't ban dog fighting, they can't ban horse racing. but nice try guys.

Posted by: erin | May 5, 2008 02:28 PM

I am a horse person and a animal lover. I don't blame the jockey in this situation...I blame the owners and the industry. This is a business!! He was doing what the owner and the trainer wanted him to do. If you want to blame anyone...blame the people who contribute to this business. They may say the love the animals..but they love the money more!! I am not for one second saying that I agree with this...but I think the blame is being pointed at the wrong person!

Posted by: Kim | May 5, 2008 02:36 PM

Having followed Horse racing for 40 years, I have seen so many beautiful animals break down. I still weep with agony when a horse gets injured & must be put to sleep. I am glad we were not shown Eight Belles demise on TV. They pulled the 2 horse vans beside each other & shielded her from prying eyes. I've signed the petition as I believe that horses should NOT be raced til they are actually 4 years old. Will we be able to change things; I don't know, but if we don't try, we will never know!! Right now I am visualizing Eight Belles running with Barbaro & Ruffian & they are free; free of pain & of man's exploitation...Noble animals deserve noble remembrances, don't they??? Rest In Peace, Eight Belles.
By the way, to all the people who posted nasty posts here; I'd rather be a "weeping hippie" with compassion & empathy than be heartless like any of you!!!!!! Wonder what kind of pet owners you are?????

Posted by: Sherrielllen Theilheimer-DeJonge | May 5, 2008 02:37 PM

As the caretaker of two rescued thoroughbreds bound to the meat market in Europe...yes, I said MEAT MARKET This is a great reason to go veggie!!
You must not just look at this tragic event without looking into it's past...
Horseracing is going on everyday all around the globe, but with the American exception of DRUGING the horse on RACE DAY!!!
If anyone has been on drugs recalls any of the experience...they would know that this feeling of enpowerment that can take place, which can lead to injuries.
I do agree that these horses are treated like Kings and Queens...but that is when they are winning...
What do you think happens to the thousands of Horses that are not winning? Do you think they are all at some farm like mine? No they are served on a plate or in dog food.
The real issue is that ALL race horses need to have a TRUST set up in their names (owners) with a percentage of THEIR winnings to go to peace of mind that all of their efforts put out on the track results in a place to call home when they have reached the end of their 'career'...

HORSE
All though you have "bought" me, you do not own me...for I am HORSE.
I am here to give strength to man, for without me you see, man would have little.
I am the one that has stood beside you from the beginning, from the first travels to the last battles...For I am HORSE.
I ask for one thing and that is kindness in return.
Use me with compassion for inside my soul lies the blood spilled for your fellow man.
If you use me up until I am no more, cry not for my soul...For I am HORSE,I answer to only one.
Cry only for your soul, for it shall be my eyes you see when you wake, and it shall be my eyes you see when you fall...

Ask yourself truly deep down how we would have managed in this world without the horse, and then step back and realize we wouldn't have gotten this far. Be Peaceful, and true to oneself and always... be kind... for I am a gift.

Posted by: Michelle | May 5, 2008 02:44 PM

I am in tears and heartbroken about this. There is no animal more majestic than a horse. Animals are not here on earth to provide entertainment for us. Let the groundswell against horse racing begin. there is a casino and racetrack in my city. (El Paso) If anyone would like to organize and protest, please email me.

Posted by: allison | May 5, 2008 02:46 PM

pssst ... get your facts right and/or at least know something about what you comment on.

If you really want to take on a good (legitimate) cause within horse racing, take up the issue of the ages of horses being run; at the age of 2- and 3-years old, horses are not physically capable of enduring the required training prior to being raced as a 3 year old and their skeletal development (especially in their legs) is premature for the stress involved in training and racing on any kind of surface - natural or synthetic.

Posted by: EY | May 5, 2008 02:46 PM

I hope the local TV stations did not spend a lot of time working on Sharie Della's request to do a story on all the previous Derby winners that have been sent to slaughter because it would be a very short story. Ferdinand is the only Derby winner sent to slaughter, and that happened after he was sold to Japan. When news got out about it in the United States there was an uproar in the thoroughbred community and actions have been taken to provide the safe return and retirement of our other Derby winners overseas when they are no longer needed for stud duty. I have been involved in the horse industry all my life and can tell you that 99% of the people in this industry are sure not in it for the money. We are in it because we love the animals.

Posted by: Kent Barnes | May 5, 2008 02:56 PM

In response to Jeff Hayes' comment..

I'm not an expert, but I've read numerous reports stating that at the age most of these young horses are started their skeletal systems are not fully formed. If this is true, then why do you believe this is not a safety issue?

In addition to speed, stamina, and intelligence, isn't the mark of a great thoroughbred it's desire to run, and to win? Isn't a great heart required to be a champion? Then why do you have a problem with putting down the crop and letting the true athlete win?

If you want to make comparisons to human sports then, ok, no one needs to "motivate" an olympian to win. The gold medalists win because of their desire to. Let the same be true for horse racing and we'll find out who the truly great race horses are. And we might also avoid accidents that occur because a young horse's great heart is abused by asking just a little too much of it.

Horse racing doesn't need to be an "extreme" sport. If they give up the whips, maybe the ponies will run a little slower times, but it might create a safer sport that everyone feels a little better about.

Posted by: Donna Moeller | May 5, 2008 03:02 PM

Plainly the horses are raced too young, too hard and too many times so that their bodies cannot keep up with healing from the pounding on the ground and weight carrying of themselves and the jockeys. Eight Belles was galloped hard days before the race. She was scratched from a race friday for some reason. She did not have her legs taped. It appears that the ankles broke at the joints. The bones protruding and the vet shocked. Obviously the joints were over-worked and torn. All they have to do is treat the horses better and let them get rest and healthy food that they need each year. Quick money is never the answer. A good horse WILL run herself to death for her owner. She did. All of them are to blame and many others as well. This must stop!!!! It is abuse. No horse should die because of over-training or over-racing by human hands. Yes accidents happen. That is why football uniforms have been changed so many times. Why have we not done something for horses? If the owners want to race several races per year then let them buy more horses to race instead of just a chosen few that get over worked. How many human track stars have broken their legs at the end of the Boston Marathon and collapsed? Horses need to be treated better and more humanely or owners/trainers should be banned from the race. This is a form of animal prostitution by the hands of men.

Posted by: Darlene Massey | May 5, 2008 03:33 PM

The comment about the owners and jockey being killed if the horse is killed, is the stupidest most outragous comment I have ever heard. I have been friends with people whom race horses and they treated those animals like they were their own children!! They were treated very well and they didnt make much at what they did. They did it because they enjoyed it (although they only ran their horses on non-hard racing surfuces) and only raced the horses when fully developed. What im trying to say, is stop grouping horse racing owners into one big BAD group! Not all are just in it for the money! Also I think people have in their minds that these horses are being beaten to death down the stretch, most of the time the horse is not whipped, the whip makes a cracking sound and that speeds the horse up, and even when the whip makes contact with their skin it doesnt hurt them unmercifully For the love of god!

Posted by: Oregonpride8 | May 5, 2008 03:44 PM

Why does it take one race and one tragedy for people to act out as a group? Shit happens...The horse was euthanized to stop her suffering and that was is...deal with it and move on people...many animals are euthanized each day to stop their suffering, but when it happens on national television, all of a sudden everyone has an opinion. It is a terrible thing to happen right after a race but there was nothing that could be done to prevent it...move on.

Posted by: Anonymous | May 5, 2008 03:45 PM

Horses love to run - they do indeed! But when people MAKE the horses run at a place and a time that is HUMANLY defined it is no longer rational to defend horse-racing by saying "horses love to run" - horses love to run when THEY want to run. People rationalize, and they do in the above comments, that the horses are very well-taken care of in the horse-racing industry. BUT, when the aim is to put horses into UNNATURAL settings where they are frequently injured and/or killed then people are at fault for the unnecessary suffering of race-horses; horses are therefore NOT under good care. Horse-racing fans rationalize that the horse's trainer, breeder, jockey etc. LOVE the horse. If this were true, then these individuals would never place a horse into a potentially lethal/injurious environment. If these people truly loved the horses and respected their majesty, speed and beauty, then they would work to insure that the NATURAL environment for all horses is preserved and the horses safely inside it. Simply put, horse-racing, a humanly devised endeavor for the achievment of monetary gain and glory is an inherently dangerous activity for the animals. Horse-racing should be banned. End of subject. Can this be achieved? Not when there is money to be made and not until people learn how to treat EACH OTHER with respect; until then our equine and other animalia counterparts will suffer.

Posted by: Angela | May 5, 2008 03:49 PM

I like many in the country enjoy watching the Kentucky Derby every year from the comforts of my home. I was very upset to hear that Eight Belles after an awesome race fracture both front legs and was euthanized at the track. I feel the main issue in horseracing today is the use of steroids with the horses for better perfomance. There hasn't been a Triple Crown winner in 30 years steroid use wasn't used back in those days. The owners and trainers want a faster horse to break track records and eventually the horse is the one who suffers. It's not the "whipping" during the race its the pumping of the steroid in the horse's system that the horse will go until they can't run anymore. I think that's what happen with Eight Belles she raced with the big boys and was juiced up like them and collapsed due to both front legs being fractured. It's tragic. Someone needs to stop the trainers from injecting the horses with steroids!!!!! We've done it with atheletes in sports today why not with horses in horseracing!!!

Posted by: Dayna Becker | May 5, 2008 03:54 PM

My comment agrees with what Mr. Horsey said that the trainer (Jones) was seen riding Eight Belles alot. He should be investigated. I've seen him before with horses and don't trust him at all. Think he has a cruel side and want to state that emphatically. He should not be allowed to train horses.

Posted by: colleen trumbo | May 5, 2008 03:54 PM

I am a horse owner, and I agree with some of what PETA is saying here. The BIGGEST problem with racing is that these horses are forced to train for racing as 2 year olds (still a baby for horses). That's before their bones, joints, and tendons are ready for that kind of stress. I suspect that the reason the racing industry does this to babies is the COST of waiting another year or 2, until they are more mature. The BEST thing PETA can do for these horses is to help change the training and racing age of the horses to AT LEAST 3, if not 4 years old. The second best thing is to help get better footing at the tracks. That should cut down on some of the injuries. I would imagine an organization as big as PETA might have a good chance to get these things done.

Posted by: Ginger | May 5, 2008 03:55 PM

I have watched and attended the Derby several times and not until the tragic death of Barbaro did I start thinking about what these horses are put through. Owners, trainers and jockeys all say that these horses 'love to run' and 'they are doing what they are bred to do'- well, I don't know about that. I was sickened when I saw what was happening to Eight Belles. I think the BIG QUESTION here is, when did the jockey know that the horse was injured? It's very suspicious that after the race was over, when the horse was allowed to slow down and rest, that she collapsed. I pray that this jockey did not have any inclination that this horse was injured because if he did, he tortured her by whipping her and making her finish the race when she was obviously so gravely injured and probably in extreme pain. Why do you think NBC had the horse hidden and didn't show footage? Because this horse was in agony. I would like to know how much experience the jockey had and if he would've been able to recognize that the horse was in trouble. I read it was his first Derby. I would also like to know what the trainer told the jockey. I know winning the Derby is HUGE and I wonder if they all wanted it SO BAD they just saw past the fact the horse was injured and in pain. The track Veterinarian even said he had never seen such a castastrophic injury after a race was over. Very suspicious. I think there should definitely be an investigation, but I don't think they will ever be able to prove when exactly the horse suffered the injury and if the jockey knew about it-he will never come forward with that information- and just road her to her death. Very, very sad. I am not sure if I can watch another one of these races agan. It makes me sick.

Posted by: JLansing | May 5, 2008 03:56 PM

As i sit here and read all of the comments on the filly Eight bells i think about the horse she was a very good horse but things that people say about stoping everything to with horse racing i hope everyone realizes that this is how people make a living the jockey did not do anything wrong he noticed that something was wrong with the horse and pulled her up but she was already hurt there is nothing anyone could do just like a human if it was goning to break it was going to break. It was a shame that had to put her down infront of thousands of people but if they would have tried to get her up or save her like barbor the horse would have been put through more pai n and suffering than she was in then that would have created everyone here complaining about something else so that leads me to say if you dont lean about the animal and things that would harm or help that animal then please dont complain about what is going on with them.

Posted by: Justin | May 5, 2008 03:56 PM

The disregard humans have for other animals sharing this planet is breath-taking.

Posted by: Cindy Scott | May 5, 2008 03:57 PM

Right away as I heard the news I cried even before reading any story. It is so tragic! I pray that this be a wake-up call! Many animals were created for(Man)as helpers and companions and need to be treated that way and not be abused! Let us look to "The Peaceable Kingdom"

Posted by: Clarice Snyder | May 5, 2008 03:58 PM

Good Day All,

As you may know, our country's annual *Kentucky Derby *took place yesterday
on national television, in addition to the thousands of horse-racing fans
who were in attendance.

Furthermore, I'm communicating with you all today, because I'd like to share
my sure outrage of this so-called sporting event, which displays a fan-base
from celebrity status - to the average person hoping to gamble and win on
their horse bets. Additionally, the unfortunate fact of how this country
would rather focus on which woman fan wears the most stylish hat - to the
man who is made famous due to his ownership of a race-horse, and who has
only one purpose of being in attendance; that is, to hope that his horse can
run the fastest, and to cheer loudly at an innocent horse who is forced to
run at speeds that have a high percentage of ending with euthanizing.

Needless to say, the same horse that made people win money, was in-fact
euthanized immediately following the same race in which thousands of people
overlooked the cruelty involved - and instead focused on how much money
they're going to make. The victim is the innocent, beautiful horse, who
unfortunately joins a list of hundreds, and hundreds, and hundreds of other
animals who were euthanized due to the precise same reason.

I myself is a sports fan, yet, I was forced to either mute the television,
or change the channel during the time of their *Kentucky Derby *analysis.
Moreover, I'm a sports fan who becomes seriously offended and outraged, when
animals are used - without care of their health - to entertain so many
people who either overlook the animals risk of injury, or truly care more
about winning and making the risk decision for the animal. This is not
right, and something must be done.

Please let me know how I can continue contributing to such happenings - as
I'm more than willing to speak my mind when it comes to these beautiful and
innocent animals. And, I have absolutely no problem in researching
appropriate contacts within the horse-racing organization, in addition to
such shows as *Sportscenter*, who continue to run repetitive highlights in
regards to the recent, *Kentucky Derby *sad and unfortunate event.

Thank You in advance for your time, and I look forward to continuing our
important discussion in effort to make a positive difference. Take Care.

Sincerely,

*SB*

Posted by: Scott | May 5, 2008 04:12 PM

I say whip his ass. This is mean and cruel treatment and has to stop. It makes me sick to think that Eight Bells was abused before she died form being whipped. May that dam Jockey suffer in hell.

Posted by: Lynn | May 5, 2008 04:13 PM

Gab Saez is guilty of nothing but inexperience. I WAS THERE, I WAS AT THE RACE, I SAW THIS. Peta is taking the totally wrong stance on bringing attention to this. No 1. that filly had no business in the race. She was a baby, not 3yo. 2nd Breteton Jones, the owner is a pig and former gov of Kentucky who only put her in for his glory because he is old and wanted THE TITLE on his mantle,he didn't give a damn if the horse got killed or not. He told Gab to run her. If you notice, the other horses were behind in a sudden slow down, SO THEY WOULDN'T GET KILLED IN A MOW DOWN. 3RD Twin Spires is an evil corporation that robs jockeys of thier money, robs trainers of thier money, robbed the fans Saturday by ripping out speakers and monitors so that people that paid couldn't see anything or hear. Threw out NBC camera men so they could film anything except what the wanted out and on and on.....The jockeys are good men and women. The professionals would jump off as soon as there is a problem. Saez should never been in the race. He is too young.
IF you PETA people want to do some real damage
1) Publish all the sponsors to the Derby and call for a boycott of those sponsors until Twins Spires upgrades the track and the buildings at Churchill.
2) Write angry letters to Breton Jones the owner. The man is a greedy pig.
3) Write angry letters to Larry Jones the trainer. He is no better..really..the tears is an act.
4) Demand tighter scrutiny by the USDA and do away with same day drugging of horses. This is causing badly bred horses.
Doing away with racing is not a good thing. It can be done safely and well. A few GREEDY owners and Churchill downs, who everyone in the horse world HATES, needs to go away.

Posted by: Mare Owner | May 5, 2008 04:19 PM

I never watched the race. I read about this. I wonder the outcome of the race would of been differant. For ankles to both break something must have been going on.If this horse didn't have something bad enough to break both ankles this could of maybe been the winner instead of Big Brown it is something to think about.Either way- Big Brown won and is a Beautiful horse as is all the horses I love. But Eight Belles you stole my heart.I hope your death was not in vain! I know it touched me and made me not want this to happen to another animal. I read another horse was hurt. My heart goes out to all animals that are used for profit.I hope and pray all animal cruelty stops and soon. It is so sad!!!!

Posted by: Tamra Mullins | May 5, 2008 04:21 PM

I Ran for the Roses
In memory of Eight Belles, Barbaro and others
By: H.D. Kunik
The roar of the crowd made me quite nervous
I'm a creature of flight, but still at your service
Thousands of people watching and cheering
for the run for the roses, start time is nearing
Sponsors and owner's investing their money
On this beautiful day, the weather was sunny
I ran for the roses right from the start
I carried your dreams, and pumped my large heart
With twenty equine shoulder to shoulder
I opened my wings and ran bolder and bolder
I ran for the roses right from the start
I had no idea I was soon to depart
My only request, I have so few,is that you remember me and how I flew
We are creatures of flight, don't require that whip
Don't run us so fast, that is my tip
If you tried this with others, let's say a beagle
you would not succeed, for it is illegal
The next time you demand from my brothers or sisters
To run like the wind, so you hear the thunder
Recall, we love to run, but
cannot
six
feet
under

Posted by: Helen Kunik | May 5, 2008 04:25 PM

Their facts ARE straight. Barbaro did die "after the Preakness" (8 months after, but after, PETA does not claim he died on the track)and Eight Belles was not loaded in the ambulance to be euthanized. Thanks PETA, for all you're doing to put an end to this disgusting "sport".

Posted by: Rachel | May 5, 2008 04:27 PM

The thing that horse racing and dog fighting have in common is betting.

Posted by: joanna | May 5, 2008 04:32 PM

How can anybody prove the face that Eight Belles was injured during the race? You cannot see the exact point where she fractured one if not both front legs until she fell to the dirt. For people to blame this jockey is just wrong. Eight Belles ran the race of her life, and b/c of her loss, she will be remembered dearly.

Posted by: Brian | May 5, 2008 04:38 PM

Whenever an animal is reduced to a gambling icon- the animal ALWAYS loses. ALWAYS. Whether hidden in a back alley or displayed in a wealthy gambling community, the result is the same. The beauty, grace, and spirit of a horse cannot be bought, sold or insured. This simple truth has escaped those people who heartlessly squandered our collective humanity to get their piece of Eight Belles.

Posted by: Tracy RN | May 5, 2008 04:46 PM

I have loved horses all my life and in the 70's had several. Horse racing used to be fun to watch but after this year's Derby I don't want to watch it anymore. The age these horses are allowed to race is unreal. All horses regardless of breed need to fully development there bones, etc;. From experience of Barrel racing we always had the vet x-ray the legs several times. Some did not develop until 4 years old. Running these poor animals on these tracks for that distance and whipping all the way down the stretch is way over board. i truly hope PETA or any other association gets totally involved in horse racing to stop it. Can't take it anymore. Lost lot of sleep because of The Kentucky Derby, which I used to love to watch.

Posted by: Gay Boise | May 5, 2008 04:48 PM

PETA needs to go after the industry as a whole. The problem lies not with the jockeys but with the age these horses are raced. Until they change the legal racing age to 4 and older these casualties will continue.

Posted by: Jenn | May 5, 2008 04:49 PM

hi I'm a retired jockey. i have ridin a lot of horse's and Brock many many of them champions to " chinnook pass"for one he brock many speed records and got the eclipse award and horse of the centry in the state of washington so i was very good at what i did iv made many leading trainer's and owners and the jock is not to blame we love them more then you think and they trust us to get them throw the pack of horse's so they have a chance to beat the one in front of them and the people to blame on this is the trainer i saw for my self he the trainer exercises that horse him self not a exercise rider an exercis rider should not weigh more than 135# and he is to big and has his irons way to low there is no proper weight balance.he weigh's about 180# or more and thats why she was put down. horse's trian 6 days a week and he whore thoses bones down over time.also i sad this for yrs filly's should not run with the boys its to hard on them a race horse is a athlete. in many ways more than the rider and she is a true athlete 100% all the wipe is for is to keep the minds on the race if she did not want to run that hard she wouldn't she was not going to let that horse in front of her beat her no matter how tired she got. if she could have gotten back up to beat him she would have.any athlete would if they where good at it.thoroughbreds are the number one athletes in the sports world.not the rider or the trainer. they are the king of sports. and they now it to apishly the winning ones. they know where that wire is what it takes to get in that winners circle.they think just like us. you just don't know it.so does your dog your cat all animals it the saying you can't lead a horse to water and you can't make run if he did not want to horse's are very smart.

Posted by: jim andrews | May 5, 2008 04:55 PM

Liz,

She wasn't put down in the ambulance, they couldn't lift her because she couldn't get up, that's why she was put to sleep on the track instead of at a hospital-get your facts straight.

Kelli

Posted by: K Mathers | May 5, 2008 04:56 PM

To answer Donna Moeller's question with one of my own, do you have a problem with Junior High track programs in America's schools?

Because at that age, a child's skeletal system isn't fully formed, and I've seen injuries and even deaths reported. In addition, many parents push their kids to compete even when they don't want to.

So should we be working to ban Junior High track as well?

Why is it that the most uneducated people always seem to have the loudest voice?

Posted by: john | May 5, 2008 04:57 PM

I just kind of happened upon this blog, and I really do not have an opinion on horse racing. But, it seems the people that are pro-racing, seem to be more educated, and well written, than those that are anti-racing, who seem to blather about with their emotions.
'nuff said.
Later---------jp

Posted by: John Patterson | May 5, 2008 04:59 PM

I cannot belive that people would actualy put there butt on a horse and race for money,This sport should come to a end quickly

Posted by: bishop | May 5, 2008 05:05 PM

It is sad to think of the amounts of money that goes into a horse to prepare and train them for any type of race not to mention the insurance that most of these type of horse owners carry on them. and yet no one seems to be aware that she had leg problems? Seems to me you might want to spend some that time and effort along with the big money to ensure their health and saftey instead of looking at the pot of winning gold or insurance money when it ends in a death. after all is'nt the tainer and the Jockey the people who know the horse the best? I can only hope that some type of action will take place for Eight Belles to ensure she did not die in vain or for the color of money.

Posted by: Ronda | May 5, 2008 05:07 PM

Absolutely tragic and senseless. Horse racing is inhumane, cruel and unnecessary. I can't believe that people actually watch while the horses are whipped and worked to death! It is sickening and should be stopped immediately. This is another form of animal cruelty and abuse for demented people's monetary gain and so-called entertainment. SICK!

Posted by: Jenni | May 5, 2008 05:18 PM

I dont understand any1 who supports racing like this. Another reviewer sugessted that we tie harnesses to the jockeys, and whip them to force them to go faster. Its true! I dont think animals are any less important than humans. Oh, and for every1 who thinks that "those horses are made to run!!!" ummm, okay, sure their made to run! But THEY ARE NOT MADE TO BE FORCED TO RUN WITH A HUMAN SITTING ON THEIR BACK HOLDING A WHIP!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: Mia | May 5, 2008 05:40 PM

I am truly upset about what happened to "Eight Belles" at the Kentucky Derby. This was an absolute tragedy and should wake us all up to the cruelty of this sport. This is not for the welfare of the animals. It is all about money, power, and prestige. This horse racing and betting should be banned. The sooner, the better. It is time to set an example and make new guidelines and rules for the betterment of the race horses, or shut it down. PETA is right to take this on. I am behind them 100%!

Posted by: G Julian | May 5, 2008 05:44 PM

I agree that it was a sad thing to happen to Eight Bells, but it doesn't mean that something was wrong before the race. I had a horse that I was working and broke his front leg. I was doing the same warm up that we do everyday. He stepped wrong and broke his front leg. Because of the injury I had to put him down. Does that mean that I did something wrong? I have been around horse my whole life and love them like my own child. If you have ever walked into a horse barn of Champion horses you would wish you were one of them. They are treated like royalty. Wouldn't you want a message before and after a work out? Most of them even get to swim. So that it doesn't stress there joints. How hard is that. It makes me sick to think that anyone would want to blame the people that truely love the horses for any accident that might take place. Before anyone has the right to make anyone feel worse than they already do, why don't you find out what was really going on. If Eight Bells was hurt before the race she wouldn't have done as well as she did, and happily. If you know horses at all and how they are put together there legs will not hold up for that long and that fast if there is a pre-existing injury.

Posted by: Horse Lover | May 5, 2008 05:45 PM

Dakota, it is not about whether the horse can race again or not. It's about whether the horse can ever support herself again on those legs which she could not. The horse would not be able to stand and infection would kill her and she would die painfully. She would not have healed right.

Posted by: ryan | May 5, 2008 06:05 PM

i don't think that PETA should focus on halting betting, but should seek to improve the safety of tracks with better footing and pushing back the ages of the horses- they are not ready to take the amount of stress on their legs at that age- horses used for other sports(eventing, show jumping, hunters, etc) are NEVER started this early- they are just learning on the ground and are even still out at pasture(regardless of breed). it is not true that horses are shipped overseas to be killed(as someone who has transported horses over from europe, i know that isn't practical), but the injuries some of the ex-racers have are terrible. PETA should support groups like CANTER and RERUN which help get former race horses new jobs away from the money-fueled racing industry.

Posted by: Jamie | May 5, 2008 06:14 PM

Lynn, you might have been at the race but your facts are wrong! Brereton Jones DOES NOT own Eight Belles, he owns Proud Spell, the filly who won the KY Oaks and is trained by the same person who trained Eight Belles, Larry Jones. Also, Saez did nothing wrong, nothing! YOu say you were at the race, but your facts are incorrect. Saez did nothing differently than any of the other jockeys who were within a shot at finishing in the top 5 or so. Saez is not to blame, as this could have happened with any jockey on board from Pat Day to Jerry Bailey, etc! CHurchill is money grubbing no doubt, I do agree with you on that, but that has nothing to do with what happened to Eight Belles!

Posted by: treehugger | May 5, 2008 06:16 PM

I am angered and sadden DEEPLY by Eight Belles needless death. I hear people state that she gave her life to be a champion. SHE DID NOT GIVE HER LIFE, HER LIFE WAS TAKEN!!She did not have a choice she was forced to race. She was forced to race before her bones were fully developed.HER LIFE WAS TAKEN BEFORE SHE EVEN HAD A CHANCE TO TRULY LIVE! I find it outrageous that these animals are sacrificed for greed. AT THE VERY LEAST NO HORSE UNDER THE AGE OF SIX SHOULD BE ALLOWED TO RACE. THEY NEED TO MAKE A RULE. THIS WOULD EVEN THE PLAYING FIELD AND GIVE THE HORSES A CHANCE AT SURVIVAL!!! Having horses this young race is like having children who should be in T-Ball playing in the major league. THIS CRUELTY NEEDS TO STOP!!!!

Posted by: Liz | May 5, 2008 06:17 PM

I am so disturbed by what I saw on tv. I just keep crying for Eight Belles. Those poor horses are not meant to run that fast with their spindley legs and huge bodies pounding the dirt! All this misery for everyone's "entertainment." Horse racing should be banned!!!

Posted by: Gaye Ashley | May 5, 2008 06:24 PM

I will never forget Eight Belles little face all covered in dirt as she laying dying as long as I live, HORRIBLE!!!

Posted by: Gaye Ashley | May 5, 2008 06:27 PM

Everyone who posted remarks about Eight Belles missed the most important issue. PETA could win the support of millions of horse owners by simply exposing the fact that thoroughbreds are the poorest conditioned athletes in the world.A simple review of the so called training methods used to get these marvelous horses ready to race could best be called criminal. A trainer gets a million dollar yearling to train and he is afraid to put enough slow miles on it to build bone, ligaments, and tendons. The one thing they make sure of is that this valuable animal doesnt get hurt in training but only gets hurt in a classic race like the Derby.Any horse can slowly be built up to handle racing. My 10 year old standardbred has raced 234 times. He races between 25 and 40 times a year. This morning I galloped him for five miles and he wanted to to more. His ears were up and he was a happy horse. My 2 year old filly jogged 400 miles this winter and now is doing some speed work but doing so in a gradual manner. She is full of energy and playfullness. She is checked daily for any signs of lameness. Most thorougbreds dont do 400 miles in their lifetime. Before any thoroughbred races it should have an ultra sound to determine the density of the cannon bone and other bone structures. My old standbred has a cannon bone probably 3 times the density and diameter of any thorougbred in the Derby. Dont blame the jocky, blame the cowardly trainer who doesnt dare tell his owners that his horse is not ready to race. No horse should go on the track without knowing that the bone structure can take the stress.
Breeding has nothing to do with it. Gradual training methods to build bone and tendon would solve the problem. Standardbreds race hundreds of times and do not break down unless poorly prepared by lazy trainers. Cavalry horses were trained 4 hours a day 6 days a week for 4 years before they were judged fit to go war. I ask you to talk to equine fitness specialists who will confirm what I am saying. Most athletes spend hours getting fit to participate in their sport. A wonderful thoroughbred spends litteraly minutes a day, train a half mile and a little speed and, wow, gallop once in a while up to 2 miles. The exposure of these trainers/criminals who physically abuse a wonderful animal by racing it before its body is ready. A thoroughbred looks magnificent with its beautiful muscles. BUT, those muscles tear apart undevelped tendons, ligaments and weak bone structure. I could go on and on but PETA could do a great service by doing a careful study which would be saluted by horse owners around the world. IF you are interested let me know and I can be more specific. Oh, by the way, if you think troroughbreds are poorly trained take a look at quarter horses. Watch a complete hoof go flying through the air sometime. Good luck and I hope you really get on this issue. The excuse of "breeding" is total bull crap. Scientific training methods available to human athletes can solve this problem.

Posted by: Gaylord Boutilier | May 5, 2008 06:33 PM

Wonder how many slot machines or black jack dealers have had to be euthanized?

tmkeeton

Posted by: tmkeeton | May 5, 2008 06:54 PM

One last comment. The jockey only tapped her for every three times he waved the whip in the final furlong. If your all so smart why don't you focus on the horses that have no business trying to run at 40mph. Just because this was on national tv and a true accident.

There are bad things happening in this sport. You just focus on the one in the spotlight which was an accident. Just as my gelding breaking his cannon bone while playing in his paddock was not the result of any ill will.

Grow up and educate yourself, then talk.

Posted by: kevin ryan | May 5, 2008 06:57 PM

Another example of educated ignorance, or stupidity:

"I was sickened after hearing about this race and Eight Belles. I then went to the KD website to express my outrage and then saw the race and it absolutely made me cry at the sight of how they beat these horses. This is not a sport. It's a bunch of RICH, OVERINDULGENT, southerners getting their kicks while abusing animals."

Kentucky is not a southern state. And where are the animals abused. You should see a backstretch; grooms live like animals, not the horses.

You all make me sick.

Posted by: kevin ryan | May 5, 2008 07:08 PM

It is disgusting the way these regal animals are mercilessly abused by us for human entertainment! Why would anyone possibly think that there is a modicum of respect for them? Until 2007 we were slaughtering horses in this country as a BIG business and exporting the meat to countries like Japan and Germany. Thankfully, I believe there was finally a bill passed that protects and prohibits the USA from performing these atrocities and all these slaugher houses are now closed.
Also, I do believe that this horse was PUSHED way beyond it's means in this race. I firmly believe that the jockey did know that there was a serious problem with her! He didn't care about the horse, all he cared about was finishing the race and winning. Winning money and status. It would be a disgrace and a dishonor to the memory of Eight Belles for him to receive a penny!!! He should definitely be punished. Go after him Peta!!

Posted by: Betty | May 5, 2008 07:12 PM

This was the first time I watched the Kentucky Derby on TV. I had no idea about how they treated the horses until I heard the news about eight belles. I was heart broken for her. Some of the websites said "yeah but people in sports die too" She didn't die immediately because of an injury she was euthanized. I will never watch the derby again and I am against any type of racings animals. It's wrong and inhumane.

Posted by: tkschultz1207 | May 5, 2008 07:16 PM

Horse racing won't be "banned";but it could be made a lot better; no racing until horses are fully mature, between 4-5 years old; stopping the use of so many drugs, especially steroids. Better breeding, etc. I don't believe the jockey is at fault, it may have been his 1st Kentucky Derby, but I'm sure it wasn't his first horse race. IMO, horse racing doesn't come near dog fighting; I've been on too many cases of dog fighting to believe that.
Not sure what to make of synthetic tracks. Not enough info on them for me yet.

Posted by: Leslie Thompson | May 5, 2008 07:38 PM

Horse Racing is all for money and greed. I bet those women in their fancy, expensive hats feel stupid now. I think horse racing should be banned. "Save a horse, ban the racing"

Posted by: Danica | May 5, 2008 07:42 PM

Calling horse racing animal abuse is like calling high school track & field child abuse. 99% of the folks commenting have their hearts in the right place, but obviously know ZERO about horses and horse racing. Yes, there are bad people in the industry, but you cannot assume everyone is that way.

PETA has such tremendous resources-I would love to see them directed at cases of TRUE animal abuse and not at the world of equine sports.

Also, there were LOTS of errors in the comments I read; making stupid, uninformed comments just makes PETA and your supports look like complete flakes.
For example: Eight Bells was not "killed" but euthanized. Race horses are tested before each race for drugs and steriods- it is NOT likely she had any in her system. There is no evidence that Thoroughbreds are being bred with thinner bones. Ferdinand was "disposed of" in Japan, not the US, and without the knowledge or consent of her former US owners. I could go on, but my steak is getting cold.......

Posted by: MRE | May 5, 2008 08:06 PM

I feel as though horse racing should be done, period. It is cruel and abuse in my opinion and it's horrible. R.I.P Eight Belles♥

Posted by: Rebecca R | May 5, 2008 08:14 PM

why are jockeys allowed to whip the horses, if they just got on, held on, and let the horse run as God meant them to, racing would be okay, but to whip the horse to go beyond its endurance, this creating the tragedy of many horses, this one, Barbaro, and the one and only Rufian, is beyond inhumane, how would those short bastards like to be whipped themselves, along with the horse owners......

Posted by: Shelley | May 5, 2008 08:22 PM

After all of this has happened I looked into what exactly is going on about these horses. From what I can gather most of the owners are buying young horses, and forcing the trainers to get them as fast as possible, making the durability factor void. Which is why many of the horses only have around three years before retirement. I have to say however its extremely hard to say that the filly was undoubtedly injured during the race. A break like that happens suddenly and with out warning. I don't believe that she was injured during the race itself because its simply not possible to run on a broken ankle. However I would like to see the owners push back more towards getting the horses trained not on purely speed, but on strength and durability as they were thirty years ago. Now I don't follow the sport much and I don't exactly stand by PETA, but From what I know this sport isn't going away anytime soon, but a neutral agreement can be made when it comes to the training the horses.

Posted by: Billy | May 5, 2008 08:23 PM

Can you answer me one question..........??
What kind of person gets off a horse that just collapsed on the track and WALKS AWAY FROM THE HORSE! ......how can you be so uncompassionate and uncaring!!
THAT JOCKEY'S ACTION SAYS IT ALL...
get rid of him and horseracing forever....otherwise........it
will happen again.

Posted by: kitlyn rescinito | May 5, 2008 08:26 PM

This is for the poster, Mare Owner.
The former Gov. of Kentucky, Brereton Jones, was not the owner of Eight Belles.
The owner of Eight Belles was Rick Porter who was a car dealer.
The owner/breeder of Proud Spell is Brereton and Proud Spells is also trained by Larry Jones, the former raiser of cows and pigs. Proud Spells was ridden by Saez on Friday at the Kentucky Oaks.
Eight Bells was scratched from the Oaks on friday where she would have run with 11 other fillies. Instead, their big egos placed her at the Derby.

Another poster mentioned how much Larry Jones weighs and I also wondered why his big body was on Eight Bells pushing her so hard.
Rick Porter and Larry Jones see this as a money making business. I don't think they love horses at all. That I think is an understatement.

Posted by: Lin | May 5, 2008 08:29 PM

The trainer and owner bear the responsibility for running Eight Belles. You're wrong to blame the Jock unless there is video evidence. There are some good ideas in less racing per horse, Not racing before maturity and better care of the animals and safer surfaces. That said it is still the most exciting sport going. It is dangerous both for Horse and Rider.

Posted by: David | May 5, 2008 08:33 PM

To Liz Morrissey:

Why don't you get your facts straight?

The filly died in the dirt, not in an equine ambulance. She could not stand, and they couldn't get her into an ambulance. Eight Belles died because she was a commodity as they all are.

The jockey should be investigated. A good rider, non-professionals included, will feel every nuance of the horse he/she is riding.

That jocky wanted to win the Kentucky Derby, even if it meant killing Eight Belles to do it.

She had more heart than her so-called trainer and rider put together.

Posted by: Gracie | May 5, 2008 08:52 PM

Alright, so if any of you would like to email me about this, i have added my email to this post, i hope not to have to add addresses to my spam filter from this. I was watching the race when it happened. This is in fact a tragedy, but i thought this organization was PETA... People for the ethical treatment of animals... maybe the sport in general is at fault, as they whip their horses and train them from before they should be holding weight, but then again should they have to hold weight... The way reigns on a horse work is you put plates between two of their sensitive teeth.. generally a horses body is less sensitive, so in fact, i don't think PETA even has a case there, as it's probably less ethical to allow them to be whipped than for those plates to be put in, so either PETA should be against horseback riding in general, or not at all. More specifically to this case, if you saw the jockey, he was mortified.. As you may see on replays, the horse bore head up after the finish, and not until after did the horse collapse.. if it had been in immense pain, it would have stopped, or at least been impeded by its injury.. obviously it happened near the end of the race, and the horse didn't feel it until after. Trust me, I am all for punishment of serious ethical mistreatment of animals, but this was not unethical. Euthanized - the horse didn't feel it. I was also quite upset that PETA was trying to revoke the winnings. The jockey's 400,000$... Not only do they not have the authority to do something like that, but they shouldn't even be asking it, it causes the organization to lose a lot of its credibility in my eyes. Just a word of wisdom, analyze the situation, and not until you have fully understood it should you react emotionally to it... it will help avoid publicity missteps for an organization, such as this one.

-steven
Friends9022@yahoo.com

Posted by: Steven | May 5, 2008 09:04 PM

I love how these blogs have a moderator to keep the comment 100% biased.

God forbid somebody says something like "I think the right thing was done by killing the horse on the track."

The animal had 2 broken legs. She wasn't going anywhere and if anything the people did her a favor.

Posted by: Jeff | May 5, 2008 09:05 PM

I have always loved animals. It has always been my dream to be an animal activist or be able to help animals in some sort of way. At first, I didn't know a lot about horse racing or anything like that. After I had been informed about the death of Eight Belles I decided to look further into this so called sport. I did my research and discovered that horse racing is a cruel activity that looks like nothing but a pile of money to those who prganize the races. I also looked up the death of smaller ranked horses and the pain and suffering that they have to face as the run endlessly around the track. I also found out that the horses that are not fast enough to make it to the big races must be "disposed of". This makes me sick and I wish that I could do more to stop this madness other that simply posting this comment.

Posted by: Hope | May 5, 2008 09:17 PM

Doesn't matter where or why it happened. Racing animals is cruel. Big animals with spindley legs which-wait-are made more spindley as they train. Such beautiful creatures should be adored and left to graze as nature intended. Barbaro, and now Eight Belles will forever be in my heart.

Posted by: SHARON | May 5, 2008 09:29 PM

I was saddened by the sight of Eight Bells going down and later to learn that she was euthanized.
What a waste.
I never did like horse racing. I am in awe of the beautiful horses.

Posted by: Sharon | May 5, 2008 09:32 PM

having spent time on the "backside" in the barns of racetracks Eight Bells tragic death is not unique. there are often piles of horse carcas' in refrigerated garages at the tracks. who's watching over this travesty?!? nobody! they are self governed. dont let their croc tears fool you, these trainers/jockeys are already on to the next innocent victim. sport of kings? yeah right, sport of uneducated carnival asses.

Posted by: g | May 5, 2008 09:50 PM

U see this Peta-we are ALL behind u on this one-NOW DO SOMETHING!! If u need us, u see we are all here to support u!!! Get rid of the whips, & the exhibitionist spectacle aka Kentucky Derby.I hope this breath taking animal did not die in vain, and that a president will be set how to improve or eliminate all of this. RIP Eight Belles You are loved...

Posted by: schansen | May 5, 2008 09:53 PM

How exactly was Eight Belles "euthanized"? By a shot of drugs or just a gun shot?

Posted by: Heather Harris | May 5, 2008 10:13 PM

While I agree with some of the very valid and insightful points made I also very strongly disagree with the overall view of horse racing that is being expressed. Eight Belles was a wonderful animal and hopefully in her death some changes will be made to make horse racing a safer sport. That's what happens in all sports. Dale Earnhardt died prematurely at Daytona in a race and from that positive changes were made to increase safety and decrease the chance of futher occurances. Nascar racing went on. A high school football player in my area died a few years ago in summer practice. Restrictions and new regulations were made after that to keep that from happening again, but football went on. My point is that horse racing is a sport and most sports are not spaired from tragedy. I bet on horses occasionally as well as other sports. Although you can argue the morality and ethics of gambling in general I don't believe that it means anything in this issue. In reading one article written by PETA it tried to put part of the blame on me and that is just crazy. I also wish that the jockey that was only doing his job and who is probably feeling worse than anyone would be left alone. He did nothing wrong and asking for him to be suspended is very extreme. I admire the work that PETA does and am in support of the organization in whole but the extreme measures and words as well as false information makes it easier for people to refute your claims. Please don't go to extremes when it is uncalled for and this is one of those times. Thank You

Posted by: Parker Scarbro | May 5, 2008 10:15 PM

Horse racing or any other form of "sport" that involves forcing animals to compete is inhumane. It is wrong and barbaric at any level to do such a thing. And YES, it is FORCING them to compete. They are not "born" to to do it. If horses are "born to run" then let them do it on their own - without the whips and cruel training and not in a circle on a track. They were not in any way shape or form born to compete for human pleasure. It sickens me that anyone could think otherwise... they are cruel cruel people who do.

Posted by: Rachel Cambio | May 5, 2008 10:16 PM

The loss of Eight Belles is a sad situation. The loss of Barbaro was sad. The loss of George Washington, Domedriver, and of course the lesser known horses that have fatal injuries during weekday claiming races at tracks worldwide. They're forgotten. But because this race was on NBC in front of millions, its a big deal. For those who know nothing about horse racing (which I believe most people on this board don't)Eight Belles had a freak accident. Its sad. I feel bad for the filly and the people associated, But don't blame the jockey. You don't realize thats a 115 pound man trying to control a 1700lb animal. The stick is used to change strides, encourage and direct a horse to certain parts of the racetrack. He did not "mercillessly whip" the filly. If anything...he did what he was supposed to do and after she crossed the line...he pulled her up as jockeys are supposed to do. Most of the comments I see here are made out of lack of knowledge. Get some facts right. The horse had a freak accident and had no chance to survive so she had to be put down. And the only ones who saw it were the attending vets and outriders. 2 ambulances and a screen covered the screen to keep it out of view. And another thing...since I work with racehorses, let me explain something to you people. People in this industry work everyday (EVERYDAY), Its not a 9-5 job. You spend so much time at the barn and with these horses they become your family. FAMILY! and they are treated as such. Some of the care these horses get are better than humans. But no...lets try to make a sad situation even more negative. Suspend the jockey for doing his job and trying his best to keep the horse safe. Blame the racing surface...19 others ran 1 1/4 that day. You can't blame anyone, it was a freak accident inexplicable by every vet that viewed the tragic incident. But keep saying people don't care about the horses and its just about money. Tell that to Larry Jones when he's done weeping and mourning the loss of someone close to him. Tell that to everyone associated with Barbaro, that shed a tear because they made a bond with the horse. And sadly, if you could tell the late great Chris Antley that the horsemen don't care about horses and it was just about the money...he did his best to save a horse when it broke down.(youtube it Belmont stakes 1999) If he didn't lift Charismatics leg to save the horse, he would have been a casualty as well. Chris Antley was a jockey. He had no stake in the breeding interest of the horse. He did that out of the care and love he had in his heart for the horse as most of us in the thoroughbred racing industry do.

Posted by: Will | May 5, 2008 10:19 PM

i live in versallies near where "belle"was born,i rode on the equestrian team in college,but never will i believe what happened to that sweet filly was ment to be.i will be downtown in lexington in the am to help protest!R.I.P. SWEET BELLE

Posted by: ginger peel | May 5, 2008 10:20 PM

Obviously there needs to be some racing reform. Age at first race, better track surfaces, etc. but I wonder about the breeding of these horses. Should there be reform in that area, too?

I know something about horses, having owned a few during my life, but I don't claim to know about horse breeding. However it seems to me that thoroughbred horses are being bred to have lighter bones in the hope that they will run faster. If that is so why can't there be a measurable breed standard, an accepted SAFE standard, of bone density and size that a horse must pass before being allowed to race? It seems that that would force breeders to breed for speed with respect for safe bone structure being part of the equation.

It appears that today's race horses are not really strong enough for what is being asked of them. I'm not sure if that is an age thing or a breeding issue. I don't know the statistics but if the vast majority of injuries in race horses occur during their young years (2,3, and 4) then it would seem to be an age issue and easily resolved.

But if it occurs at all ages then breeding more strength in them seems like a logical thing to do but it won't happen until it is mandated because speed (translate that into money) is the only thing being bred for at this time.

Posted by: Jane Peterson | May 5, 2008 10:21 PM

I have written a letter to the Chair person at the Kentucy Derby hoping that getting letters will make him take a hard look. I am not all that smart about horses never had one and never rode one other than around in a circle or something like that.

I just went to the Kentucy Horse Park by myself at 5:00 in the morning and met the real people. I was very brave that day driving thru the city of Lexington to find the park alone. The people who clean, bathe, pickup the poo, feed the barn cats, brush and shoe. The people there let me take pictures and showed me a ton of interesting things and love the horses to death. I wrote the letter for them. I wrote by hand and enclosed my pictures of the horses I got to pet and feed straw to. I loved my day there alone and did it for my chance to see the most expensive horses in the world close up. I did it for the people who do love the horses and don't give a hoot about who wins or who loses.

I don't want to ignor things that suck anymore even if all I can afford is 41 cents to ask someone to punish people that deserve it.

Posted by: Bobbie Messina | May 5, 2008 10:28 PM

I wish every one that would comment on a situation would be well informed before doing so. In the case of Eight Bells it was an accident, I have worked with some of the people involved and know from personal experience that they take the best care of their horses. Some others don't however it is not fair to condemn all involved. Also most race horse are taken far better care then horses left in the fields to starve to death because people decided that it cost too much to properly care for them! Not every situation is ideal however heart breaking situations like this should be taken and learned from, to try and prevent such things from occurring again. In doing so I think it is shameful to belittle and blame those who were closest to her for some thing that was out of their control. Accidents do happen, and people with actual knowledge of horses and racing know that is the case with horses as well as any animal. I hope people can learn that action can be taken in a manner to make a difference not just to make them sound as they care about some thing they them selfs had no knowledge of other then what the saw 5 minuets of or read. Lets face it every thing you read and see is not always true! After investigating further then form an opinion, thanks.

Posted by: Heather Smullen | May 5, 2008 10:29 PM

What happened to Eight Belles was tragic. I've owned and worked with thoroughbreds since I was a teen here in Ky. They are broke to saddle as yearlings,while in training- stay in a box stall 23 hours a day and raced as soon as possible- some barely 2 years old, this all to make a buck as soon as possible. PETA will not change how horse racing is done here in KY or anywhere else. I agree horses should not be allowed to race as a 2 year old or 3 year old, let them stay outside 23 hours a day for the first 2 or 3 years of their life- this will strengthen their bones. No whips either- usually when a jockey is over using the whip the horse starts to slow down- as Eight Belles did during the stretch-looking back at the jockey. Why didn't he pull her up after the race, he was still running her 1/4 mile from the finish line-was he drug tested?? When horses get tired they get injured-she was giving all she had, her heart was stronger than her legs.. I would like to know where was PETA during the Rolex 3 day event- 2 horses had to be euthanized from injuries from falling after not being able to complete jumps. What about when 30 horses were found dead on one farm- all starved to death a few weeks ago here in Ky.? Let's not ban horse racing, let's make it safer by not allowing young horses who are stall bound to run. Make it mandatory for at least a 12 hour turn-out everyday for every horse at tracks and training centers. Living in a box is the cruelty in horse racing.

Posted by: Rebecca | May 5, 2008 10:31 PM

You know what is ironic? When I moved to Louisville 12 years ago, the first activity I participated in was seeing the Oaks. I thought it was the neatest thing. However, I have learned so much more over the past couple years about the treatment of horses, and it sickens me.
I do not, however, believe the jockey and trainer should be punished for this. The sport as a whole needs to be changed; not just the actions of 2 or 3 individuals. In this sport there are norms, and we need to change that.

Posted by: Kristin | May 5, 2008 10:38 PM

Im all for aminal rights, but to compare horse racing to dog fighting. Are you serious or just ignorant? I agree with some of the points made by peta as well as bloggers on this site. Whips are in this day and time a pointless and cruel tool in horse racing, but to call for a suspension of the jockey and the trainer is taking it to far. I happen to know in most cases ( i'd guess about 95% of them) the relationship between horse and trainer as well as jockey is one of the closest of any in sports. I value PETA and its members for all the great work they do around the world, but this almost feels like PETA is just trying to flex some muscle in this case. The trainer nor the jockey should be held at fault for a terrible accident. And to the people posting the horse looked hurt in a practice run or whatever else, you are seeing what you want to see. The horse was 100% race day morning, and unfortunitaly this is the terrible reality of horse racing. I applaud you for trying to put a stop to the brutality of the sport, but dont ruin two mens reputations in the process, just because you can. I dont bet on horses, but i'd be willing to wager they lost more (emotionally not financially) then anyone else so do what you can to put an end to the brutality of the aniamls, but dont hurt innocent people too.

Posted by: bo jangles | May 5, 2008 10:40 PM

To be honest, I breathed a sigh of relief when I found out she was going to be cremated and buried at Churchill Downs instead of shipped over to Europe like a couple of past derby winners.

Posted by: Kristin | May 5, 2008 10:41 PM

A few points for all of you anti-PETA people, or those who are defending horse racing and what happened to Eight Belles:

1. This is an ANIMAL rights organization. We care about people, but on this site, we devote our discussions to helping ANIMALS (that's what the "A" stands for in PETA...).

2. Whether or not the horse was whipped "mercilessly", it was still WHIPPED! It may or may not feel like a "pinch" or a "flick", but the bottom line is, the horse is still experiencing some level of discomfort all for the sake of human entertainment!

3. The comparison between dog fighting and horse racing remains accurate - not necessarily for issues of violence, but because it involves exploiting animals for the sake of money and entertainment.

4. Look up the definition of "speciesism". Well, to make it easier for you, it means "human intolerance or discrimination on the basis of species, especially as manifested by cruelty to or exploitation of animals". Humans do not have the right to decide which species deserve to be protected, which ones are "allowed" to be eaten, or which ones are acceptable as pets.

5. Horses probably do "love" to run, though we really cannot know for certain, because horses cannot communicate to us in their language. Nevertheless, even if we could prove that they were "born to race" or that they "love" to run, it still would not justify FORCING them to race, for humans, for our entertainment, for money, and on humans' terms.

6. And, for all of you who have commented with the general idea that "this kind of thing happens", you are PATHETIC human beings! Do you even have a clue about what you are saying???? You are heartless and selfish people. You could just as easily apply this "philosophy" to child abuse, rape, war, poverty, murder or natural disasters (for example, "oh well, 10,000 people were killed by a cyclone - shit happens" - sounds pretty callous to me, if not psychopathic).

Posted by: Michele | May 5, 2008 10:50 PM

The jockey should be euthanized! The people who buy tickets and place bets should be jailed! I cried for Eight Belles harder than I've ever cried before. She had a spirit of magnificence that should have been running free on fields of green grass.

SO WHAT CAN WE DO TO HELP BAN RACING? Who should we call? Who should we write? Please give me suggestions so I can put my actions where my mouth is. I don't know what to do - I only know I must DO SOMETHING! RACING IS WRONG!!!!

Posted by: Bets Banks | May 5, 2008 11:12 PM

RIGHT CRIMINAL, WRONG CRIME.
I watched a woman from PETA on Neil Cavuto's show today assert that that poor horse's legs must have been already cracked during the race. I haven't gotten to see the film of the horse right before it went down - but my money is on the jockey pulling her up short, causing her to instinctively plant both front feet in an effort to slam to a stop. It's one of the few ways an injury like that is even possible. I think the jockey was angry about his near win and took it out on the horse, not realizing the consequences of forcing the animal to an unnatural act [for a race horse].
Cow ponies and polo ponies are both trained to stop on a dime but a race horse is not. Consider what it would be like to force a "trotter" to jump an obstacle without warning. The film should be scoured for what the jockey did immediately prior to the horse's fall!!!!

Posted by: Sandi in West Virginia | May 5, 2008 11:26 PM

I think the MOST disgusting thing that I saw Saturday, was the jockey that just walked away from her, not even giving her a pet...no regard for her life and what she just did for him. THAT IS DISGUSTING! This is a guy that was in his first Kentucky Derby and he was going to win or die trying! He needs to be suspended! I am also appalled at the "trainers" comment that she ran the race of her life-she probably should not have even been in that race-GREED is what killed her. He wanted her in the KENTUCKY DERBY or he wanted to have a horse in the KENTUCKY DERBY-probably didn't matter which one. Yes, I have been around horse people for many years. I have owned an ex-racer-he too was sold to a "dealer" because he did not win as many races as they thought he should. I can't bear to think what would have happened to him...I only hope that maybe people will open their eyes and see how inhumane horse racing is-not only for the racing itself, but MOSTLY what becomes of these beautiful creatures after they have served their purpose-PLEASE DONATE TO A RETIRED THOROUGHBRED ORGANIZATION!

Posted by: Lori Hoell | May 5, 2008 11:26 PM

Well, I read my way through over half of the hundreds of comments posted here. I have never in my life seen so many people pontificating about things they obviously know nothing about - "forcing a horse to run", "unmercifully whipped", "the jockey STOOD UP", "it would of (sic) healed", "It's all about the MONEY, MONEY, MONEY" and so on.

#1 - Horses are prey animals and encoded in their DNA is a desire to run. Moments after a foal's birth it stands up and it's next act is to try to run. There is no way to force a horse to run. Actually, much of horse training consists in convincing a horse NOT to run.

#2 - Crops (whips) are used to make sure a horse runs straight to avoid collisions that could result in a pile-up that could claim many equine and human lives. (The art of a good jockey switching sides with his crop never ceases to amaze me.) The use of the crop also clues the horse into where the finish line is. I know those of you who are convinced that Eight Belles was "whipped unmercifully" to her death will not believe this but when I used to teach at a horse camp and a tender-hearted child worried about crops I would take one and whack my own thigh, just like the jockeys do to horses' backsides (which have MUCH thicker skin.) There would be no resulting bruise or welt and the more adventurous kids would have me whack them and they would instantly understand. If you inflict pain on a horse, it will not do what you want it to do. Eight Belles felt no pain from the jockey's use of the crop in the stretch. But, of course, horse-ignorant people won't believe me....

#3 - Jockeys STAND UP to stop a horse. Geez, the ignorance posted in this blog is incredible....

#4 -There is absolutely no way that any horse could survive after a double break like that. Horse circulation demands that a horse stand on its legs, even if they are broken. (I won't go into the complicated biology about that. Google it if you are really interested.) With one break, you can try to manage the circulation problem. With two breaks, it is impossible.

#5 - It is never about the money. There is a very good reason that only rich people own racehorses - you ALWAYS lose money racing horses.

I could go back to the list and find #6, 7, 8, etc. but I won't.

It's a sad fact but horses are fragile. They break very easily even under the best circumstances. A wonderful stallion I used to work with, a very sturdy warmblood dressage horse, had just had his yearly exam with the vet pronouncing him in perfect condition when, trotting back to his pasture, he slipped, shattered a leg and had to be put down. All it takes is one wrong step.

Geraldine Clarke (a proud owner of a happy ex-racehorse I've owned for 30 years)

Posted by: Geraldine Clarke | May 5, 2008 11:30 PM

I know that was a not a nice to see a horse die on the track in front of Thousands of people. I would not want to see any animal suffer from broken limbs especially a horse. But a least it was humane. Remember a horse stand on it legs its whole life. what else could they have done to correct this situation? Dejanae

Posted by: Dejanae Scott | May 5, 2008 11:36 PM

It bothers me that people call this a heartless sport. All any of you see is the spectator's side of it. What do you know of the trainers' and jockeys' devotion? Any sport involving horses is a team sport; the trainer, jockey, and horse must bond to be a good team. If a horse doesn't want you on its team, you're not going to get anywhere. It infuriates me when people claim that the love a trainer or rider has for their sport or their horse is not genuine. What do you know? As an equestrian, the love I have towards horses as a species is unconditional, even towards the few horses who do not like me. What do you know until your horse takes off with you because he likes to go fast, or when his ears perk up before a jump, or you feel him relax under the saddle? What do you know until you untack your horse after an hour of "whipping him mercilessly" to get him to move his fat ass and he puts rests his chin on your shoulder and gives you a big slobbery kiss, or he bites you on the ass while you're scratching his tummy because he thinks you want him to scratch your itchies too? Have you ever had to deal with the death of a horse you know personally? Anyone who calls those tears an act is really the one who is heartless.
I agree with Brian. Horses trip over themselves all the time; no one can prove exactly when Belles' ankles broke, and the jockey certainly would have felt if anything was wrong with her (anyone who's been riding long enough to be in the derby is definitely familiar enough with a horse's gaits to feel when something is off); instead of criticizing him, our hearts should go out to him for having to suffer the loss of a teammate.
As for the jockey "whipping her mercilessly," horses have thick skin. Popping them with a crop doesn't hurt them, it's just a little tap to get their attention, and most horses are trained to move away from pressure (whether it be from a rider's heels or a crop) on either side. If Belles' "comfort zone" was on the rail like the jockey said (and he, as her teammate, would know this), then he would have had to use the crop to get her away from it since jockeys' heels aren't in the right position to move a horse that way.

P.S. Barbaro was only euthanized because his legs weren't healed enough to breed him. Thoroughbreds must be bred the "natural way" to be registered, not through artificial insemination.

Posted by: kate | May 5, 2008 11:39 PM

Everyone-take a look at the IEHA website (owners of Big Brown) and decide for yourself if these characters look like the picture of clean, Kentucky farms, rolling hills, and rushing streams. What a joke.
The shallow, superficial, hedonistic, arrogant, stupid, lo IQ, cannot speak on TV, hard partying ,ex-drug addict trainer of Big Brown should take an introspective look at what might be HIM alongside Big Brown lying on the Preakness track in two weeks should his horse fracture a leg? Oh, I forget.
He cannot think that deeply.
Rick Dutrow's brain is not neurologically intact due to chemicals.
These characters only into self centered greed certainly do not posture themselves like some of the gracious owners who may really care about a horse. What a sad world.

Posted by: d | May 5, 2008 11:55 PM

First of all, I am a longtime horse racing fan and a former employee of the racing industry. And it is an industry, a business as all major sports are businesses. In horse racing the horse is the silent partner — a generally eager and willing participant, never knowing either the potential deadly dangers or monetary rewards. The horse runs for love of running. A horse cannot be "forced to run" anymore than it can be forced to take a drink of water. Uninterested or lousy runners don't make history or news or remain racehorses for very long. The great runners race hard and occasionally win. Only the best of winners really make money. The real money is in breeding and breeding mostly belongs to the wealthy humans, the "Kings" of the sport. Horse racing is populated by wealthy people not because they make money on horse racing but because they have plenty of money to spend on an animal and its care. Making money in horse racing is relatively rare. As for the betting of millions - like most gambling the money in betting goes to the house and even at that the betting of millions has not been enough to save racetracks across the US from closing.

The Sport of Kings. The so-called Kings, owners and breeders of horses are the ones who write endless checks for people who manage a horse or a stable of horses. Each horse must eat, exercise and be housed every single day. Each horse is trained religiously while on track for its race career. Every day a racehorse is groomed and its legs wrapped and rubbed by hand, feet cleaned and cared for, every need attended to. All of this is enormously expensive and time consuming. And it happens for every horse from the best to the cheapest. In 6 years working at relatively cheap tracks with racehorses at the mid level of competition I saw no cruelty towards animals of any kind but especially horses. People who work with race horses do so for love of racing and horses. For nearly every one it is a labor of love. The work is hard, physical and can be dangerous. Most employees work 7 days a week, long days for little pay. As an employee it is an unwritten law to avoid becoming attached to the horses. They do not belong to you and as such can be sold, removed from training, or worst - suffer an injury that ends their lives. But what always impressed me was the status of the horse. In any barn, any stall, the horse was the most important thing. Its well being, the grooming, the timing of food and exercise, the supply of water and cleanliness of the stall, equipment and all of the surrounding area -all at an impeccable level. The horse is so wonderfully fit and cared for by the groom, hotwalker, trainer, exercise staff. What this is - is love of the horse. This is not animal abuse.

Now, when a horse suffers an injury that it cannot survive the crushing effect of that on the stable from which it came is describable. It would compare to going in to work anywhere and being told your coworker fell on the job and suffered a fatal injury. Everyone at the track feels the loss. Just look at the effect of this horse's death on the entire country. The loss of a racehorse due to injury or illness iseems even more tragic due to the exalted status of the animal, like a celebrity. But for those near to it the loss is like that of family. The star of your morning is gone forever, there is an empty stall, a name on the list for training activities still lingers until it is erased, equipment still hanging on the wall. And stories of the animal, its personality and quirks. It is not just a workplace but a home, a home you kept for that animal and so that barn is one hell of a sad and mournful place when a horse dies. This is not animal abuse.

Horse racing is highly regulated. Drugs are regulated and trainers or other guilty parties punished if caught. Compare to recent scandals of drug abuse among humans in the sports in which they compete. How many human athletes have died from the abuses of their own sports, rarely in the moment but later on in life? Racing has always been highly susceptible to corruption and cheating and the result is greater oversight and structure to prevent such occurrences. Unique to horse racing are breakdowns which are a fact of racing and they are terrible. The media will forget in a couple of weeks the tragedy of Eight Belles. The racing community will never forget. The industry is rushing now, perhaps too swiftly to the possibility that new track surfaces will lower risk of injury to both horse and jockey. This is very exciting but as yet unproven and we all know it will not eliminate all injury. There will never be horse racing without tragedy of breakdowns. Horses legs are fragile and wherever they work be it the ranch, the farm, the show ring even playing in a paddock they have a great risk of injury and when a horses leg breaks it often cannot survive. Horses are odd that way. They cannot stand on three legs. Probably something to do with being prey and having to rely on that instinctive ability to run.

Racing is well aware of the problem of racing injury and must pursue solutions at every level. Along with changes to racing surfaces there may be other ways to lower the rate of catastrophic injury. Are there more breakdowns now than in the past? Are horse bones less strong? Should inbreeding and bone strength be investigated? Racing age? Diet? There are many questions - most of them are worth consideration.

So as long as we who love racing and horses are legally allowed to do so we'll have racing. It is scary and wonderful and exhilarating and tragic. On Saturday May 3 2008 I was in front of my TV screaming at Big Brown and Kent Desormeaux as they crossed that finish line so incredibly in front. I had no idea at that moment who was second. Within a minute the commentators mentioned the injury to the filly and I dropped, my heart sank. Mostly for the filly and her people but also for racing. Another highly televised tragedy and the inevitable outcry against the sport. It becomes so hard to defend, to describe the love of racing in the horrible light of such tragedy. But if you work at a track with horses for a while you learn. It is all about the horse — every day on every track. And while people will call for the demise of horse racing they cannot call it animal abuse.

Posted by: Laura Ladendorf | May 6, 2008 12:07 AM

wow...I am shocked at the response to what happened at the Kentucky Derby a few days ago. I could see if you (peta members) were upset with the whips or that they are racing the horses so young (3 years old), however, you're attacking the wrong issue. Those are the issues that need to be addressed in horse racing. I'm not a horse racing fan or a PETA enthusiast. The way I see it is that was the most humane thing to do. Also, order of the food chain... human > horse. That may sound cruel, be thats the way it is. We as humans, are not the most dominate creatures for no reason. And to suspended the jockey is just insane. There was nothing that the jockey did to make that happen. These horses are the top "athletes" in there sport. The same thing happens in any sport at a highly competitive level. I've been injured many times throughout my sports career but thats the risk I take. If athletes didn't push themselves beyond that limit, they wouldn't last long in the sports world.

Posted by: Drew | May 6, 2008 12:13 AM

Dear PETA,

While I am a fan of your cause, I completely disapprove of your actions and assessment on where you should be focusing your efforts. It troubles me that horse racing has always had its problems but not until there is a tragedy on national television do you chose to act. On May 1st this wasn't on your agenda but now its on the front page of your website. Nothing has fundamentally changed in one week with the horse racing industry. If this is such a concern to all the bloggers and members out there, why have I never heard you speak out before? As far as I'm concerned, this is like George Bush saying we need to fight terror on September 12, 2001. Again, the nobility is there, but you won't win any supporters when the average Joe thinks you're exploiting current events to push an agenda.

What troubles me more is that you continue to place the blame everywhere but at the root cause of the issue. For those of us that know horse racing, we know that steroids have always been an issue. Steroids decrease the calcium concentration in bones, and they increases muscle mass which increases weight. You have heavier horses running on thinner and weaker bones. If you really care for the animals, you'll take a look at reality. The reality is that horse racing isn't going anywhere. The first Kentucky Derby was run during the Civil War and they'll keep running it long after we're all dead. So please stop focusing efforts on banning horse racing and banning whipping. Focus on what you can do to create realistic change that helps the animals you claim to love.

And that means stop steroids and use artificial tracks.

Posted by: Chris | May 6, 2008 12:39 AM

Yeah, the owners are really upset over the death of Eight Belles....upset that they lost a lot of money!!! Horses were never meant to race! They were meant to "saunter". They are really very delicate animals with 70% of their weight landing on ONE LEG when galloping!! The racing industry should be ashamed of themselves! The only thing they love about horses is the potential big money they bring. They make me sick.

Posted by: Pam Faubus | May 6, 2008 12:46 AM

I sincerely don't get anyones point about how they treat these horses. First if you just took the time to read the statements by the owner and the jockey, you would realize how much they cared for this animal. All ive heard is how upset and distraught they were following this tragedy and yes I agree it is a tragedy. The thing is tragedies have happened in sports for decades, but I guess when it happens to humans there shouldnt be an outcry for changes or even to get rid of the sport. When a horse is tragically put down during a national broadcast you write poems and make crazy accusations, but when a person like Travis Roy becomes paralyzed in his first seconds as a college hockey player, where is you outrage and sorrow. Third some are saying how horse racing in essence is the mistreatment and abuse of animals and that changes need to be made. Im pretty sure that horses in the wild probably have more problems than these racing horses. From what Ive learned today by visting mutiple sites, these horses are treated pretty well, theyre are well kept, well nurished, loved by there owners and jokeys, and most have their own veterinarian specifically for that one animal. You make it sound like they are starved, mal nurished, and abused. To call for no more use of whips, better track conditions and less races is absurded, what would the sport be after. What you need to stop and realize, if you can, is that this was simply a TRAGIC ACCIDENT, no more no less. This event has no bearing on the sport and instead of making irrational and false statements about the sport, you should try to see how it has affected those like the jokey.

Posted by: Scott Healey | May 6, 2008 01:01 AM

As a kid I went to the races with my dad , my mom made me, as adult I don't go . I saw them back raceing and buggy raceing as a child I had a gold heart for them I seen alot get hurt and whiped and race in the pouring rain .
I feel they should ban the whip cause the jockeys want's the win , the money ect. and takes it too far on the horses they get beat win or loose . They are trained to run fast not by choice ,they are smart enough to know if they don't run fast they are whipped harder , they know they go around the track and just a little before they get to the white line or the Lighted line the whippings are going to get worst and after they cross over it the beatings will stop. She may of had a heart attack from giveing her all and fall and broke her ankles ,she tossed his butt off of her made him stop. I hope they all have nightmares. when the race was over very few was by her side ,poeple standing in line collecting money from her second place win, people cheering for big browns win takeing pictures while she was on the ground dieing it's really sad .

Posted by: Connie | May 6, 2008 01:16 AM

Ruffian, Barbaro and now Eight Belles.... It's horrid!

And those sweet young equine angels are just the famous tip of the iceberg of the deadly 'sport' of horse racing.

And I've been reading a ridiculous sexist twist on some blogs....that Eight Belles (and Ruffian) being fillys was the problem. Imagine!! Because they're female horses? Some ignorant people projecting their sexist bias into these sweet tragic beings.

Posted by: Susan | May 6, 2008 01:16 AM

I do not watch horseracing, so just found out about this horrific death at the Kentucky Derby. These poor horses, are broken and trained, and ridden before their bone structure has even finished growing. The Quarterhorse racers don't even put a saddle on them until they are 2 yrs old! Why does money and greed always win over the ethical treatment of animals. Just mark up one more horrific event of the human race. Kentucky has some of the finest horses in the world, and look what they do to them! It just shows that these supposed "horse" people have no conscience! Blame the owner and the trainer, not the jockey.

Posted by: Isabel Campbell | May 6, 2008 01:43 AM

Please give us some addresses where to write (Churchill Downs, the Govenor of Kentucky, the trainer, the owner, legislatures, etc.) Also, you might be interested in Michael Rosenberg's excellent article "Eight Belles' Death Shows Dark Side of Horse Racing". (google it!) He should win an award! Over 3,000 comments--mostly from gamblers not wanting to go to cards or dice, I suppose. "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated" Mahatma Gandhi

Posted by: ELAINE | May 6, 2008 02:46 AM

I am not anti-animal at all, but sometimes PETA just looks like a bunch of crazy kooks out there. Factory farming is one thing, but horses of Kentucky derby caliber or cared for better than many humans. To think these people really don't care about their horses for any more than money is ridiculous. Horses are fragile animals and must be cared for daily. People want to be proud of their horses, its no different than wanting a person to succeed at what they do. Most horses love attention from people and interaction with people. Calling for this guys job or suspension or whatever, is just flat out ignorance. Please PETA people, if you want to help animals, don't be stupid. Pick your battles.

Posted by: Sam | May 6, 2008 03:42 AM

These horses are athletes - just like people that race. Do you want to put an end to all of the triathalons or the Olympics where people are injured?

Posted by: MJ | May 6, 2008 04:14 AM

I do feel ashamed that we the evolved are still killing others and abusing animals for money. Why can't we find humane things to do, like helping each other have better lives. More money does not guarantee happiness. If you have a conscience, you will not be happy if you are hurting others. Get spiritual all you religious fanatics.

Posted by: Pamela Melvin | May 6, 2008 06:18 AM

while i am fine with your stance towards the fair treatment of animals..i have rode horses and have been around some jockies..these people have all the love in the world for there animals, when they are in pain so are the jockies..they put the horse down with without the owner s consent...one of the fractures was too unstable for the horse to be transported in the first place(without going through more pain)hmm so wut to do? put in down wiht the most comfort possible...and if that horse was in so mcuh pain during the race im not sure it would have beat every other world class horse but big brown that day...come on THINK

Posted by: mike | May 6, 2008 07:18 AM

It is obvious that no one wants tragedies like this to ever happen, but, however, keep in mind that accidents and injuries do occur in every spectrum of the sporting world. I would not define horseracing as barbaric. It is a two minute race in which a small man rides the back of a magnificent animal. No one could ever foresee trainers, jockeys or owners putting the horses that they love into immediate danger. We will never know if the horses want, or do not want to race, but they do, and the men and women involved do nothing but the utmost to keep their animals well fed, trained, groomed and loved. If horse racing is barbaric, than any event in which requires a human being to be sitting on the back of horse shall be looked upon in the same matter. Anyone who ever rode horseback shall be deemed unethical and immoral. The fact of the matter is mankind has been riding horses since their existence. Over time the animals have been bred for such an act. I respect PETA's stance to protect animals and it is a noble cause, but you have got to be kidding me on this one. This is absolutely ridiculous. The man who PETA has condemned was on the back of the horse and if the horse falls the jockey falls, thus resulting in injury.

Posted by: Anonymous | May 6, 2008 07:36 AM

I live in Kentucky and I'm a horse lover. Period. I also have owned race horses and hope to own more in the future. What happened to this great filly was a tragedy. She actually ran her heart out. Her ankles broke when she fell from a heart attack. Please do not attack the wrong people in racing. Jones and his jockey are all class and real horsemen. Here are the people you should: 1.trainers who use medications that are banned; one actually was using cobra venom to deaden the horse's pain. The solution is to let the trainers and owners who love horses and are on the level expose these win at all trainers
2.trainers that run horse's with 'real' injuries. Often this is done by having a horse claimed of you in a race. Some will put a $50,000 horse in a race for $20,000 knowing he will win the race and pot most liklely, while the horses condition is left for the next owner who is unaware of the injury to take care of. Problem is the horse often is hurt more. Tracks should have updated info on horses and their injuries. Eight Belles was not one of these horses.
3.breeders who give extra 'supplements' to young horses. Often 'pumped up' before a big yearling sale. Big muscled, fast, young, already overtrained horses equal large sale prices. Eight Belles was a homebred and went to sale. This was not done to her.
4.tracks, races (Derby is for 3-yos), and a breeding industry that focuses on results of the horse during their 2 and 3 year old seasons. A horse that has not won substantial money early on can't run in the derby. Plus T-Breds can't be bred but by the old fashioned way. That means some horses are born in Feb while others May and June. Would anyone really care if the horses were one year older?
Back to Eight Belles. To think the jockey would strike her while she is breaking down is crazy, 100%. Doing almost 40 miles an hour with 18 other horses behind you that would mean almost certain death. Most times a good jockey uses the whip is to make them switch leads or in this case stay away from the rail. The jockey had ridden her in the past and her trainer Jones should be commended for sticking with a young rider who knew this filly better than anyone else. Most would have stuck a big name jockey on her who would have ridden her only a couple of times at best. There is no doubt that most people in racing never put the horse first but these people did. Eight Belles was never over raced, actually lightly raced. All they did was bring a sound, champion type filly to the derby to show the world she was the best.

Posted by: hutcherson | May 6, 2008 07:38 AM

Thanks for a great post "Osterizer". As someone who knows the truth behind how these horses are treated your voice is appreciated.
To those who say should we ban football, soccer, etc... Do I really need to point out the difference between a sport that humans VOLUNTEER for and horseracing? Are you people really that dense?
And as for greiving over a horse when humans are dying and PETA not having its priorities straight, you realize PETA is an ANIMAL welfare organization and that there are numerous causes for humans? I don't know if you're capable but I can multi-task and care about both humans AND animals. Are you suggesting that as long as humans die we should turn a blind eye to animal abuse? So if we care about animals, the truly voiceless in society, we therfore do not care about people?
May I suggest to those of you who do not feel compassion for animals that perhaps you're on the wrong website.

Posted by: Rachel | May 6, 2008 07:40 AM

TV Commercial idea as a parody of the Partnership for a Drug Free America commercial currently running

Here it is:

A serious looking man in a suit stands in front of vaults at an Animal Morgue, he slides open the drawer with a mangled Pit Bull and says:

"This animal died because of illegal gambling"

The man then turns and slides open a much larger drawer that reveals a dead thoroughbred race horse.

"This animal died because of legal gambling."

The man then peers at the camera and asks,

"Tell me, which one is more dead?"

Posted by: Paul DeGaeta | May 6, 2008 07:53 AM

I am not a PETA member. I am not a vegetarian. Nor do I think the Jockey in this case is responsible. I have never been given much thought to the possible unethical practices in the horse racing industry. I really do love and appreciate animals however. BUT..........

WITH THE LAST FEW KENTUCKY DERBY'S RESULTING IN THE DEATH AND SERIOUS INJURY OF THE FRONT RUNNERS IN THE INDUSTRY WE NEED TO SERIOUSLY RE-EVALUATE WHAT IN THE HELL IS GOING ON!

When the result of consistantly pushing these animals to their limits is resluting in the frequent death and serious injury of these horses WE HAVE GONE TO DAMN FAR!!!!

An animal such as the horse has submitted itself willingly to the service and well being to all human kind AND THIS IS HOW WE REWARD IT!!!!

We should be ashamed....

Posted by: Martin | May 6, 2008 08:02 AM

Sorry to be the voice of dissention here, but there are so many uninformed people within this blog is simply mind numbing. No doubt that all sport fans, were saddened on Saturday and the luster of a brilliant race was tarnished with the tragic accident of Eight Belles. But lets keep this in perspective, it was an accident. To those who think these horses (especially stakes runners or top horses like Derby runners) are abused, I welcome you to visit KY, or Florida, or New York and visit some operations before you make such illinformed judgments. From the time they are bred most of these animals,(certainly in this class) live and are treated better than 99% of the worlds population. For those who think they are used for the sport I simply say you have never obviously spent time around thoroughbred horses. These horses love to run and they are as competitive as any professional athlete you will ever find. Make no mistake about this, they (the horses) want to win. You can see it in there eyes in practice and on race day. This is what they want and are born to do and this is not hard to see shortly after they are born, as they gallop and run as colts in fields along side the mares. I sumbit it is an art that they are trying to perfect from the time they are just a few weeks old. If you have not seen this in person I invite you to do so because it truly is a beautiful sight and one that will become ingrained in you forever. For those who think the owners and trainers, vets, jockey's and tracks are NOT looking out for the horses best interests, then why have 1/4 of the tracks already switched to a new polytrack surface that has proven to reduce stress & injury on the horses? Within 2 years, nearly every single track in the country will be going to this type of surface at a huge expense, all for the horses and love thereof. To use this accident as an indictment of the sport for abuse, neglect or whatever your particular issue is just makes groups like PETA look uninformed and irrational to people and animals everywhere. I encourage you to go to places like the Kentucky Horse Park, or Churchill Downs Racing Museum to learn a little about it or go to Woodford County or Bourbon County, KY or Ocala, FL and take a tour of facilities in which these horses are born and bred and live. Places like Three Chimney's where Eight Belles lived and ran, even when no one was watching.

Posted by: Hunter12 | May 6, 2008 08:03 AM

while i am fine with your stance towards the fair treatment of animals..i have rode horses and have been around some jockies..these people have all the love in the world for there animals, when they are in pain so are the jockies..they put the horse down with without the owner s consent...one of the fractures was too unstable for the horse to be transported in the first place(without going through more pain)hmm so wut to do? put in down wiht the most comfort possible...and if that horse was in so mcuh pain during the race im not sure it would have beat every other world class horse but big brown that day...come on THINK

Posted by: mike | May 6, 2008 08:03 AM

Dear PETA,

My name is Jenda Wilson and I am the granddaughter of Larry and Cindy Jones. There have been some ignorant comments made by those of your organization as of late. This ignorance, while being partially due to the lack of obvious and feasible research, has led to the inexcusable pointing of fingers. It is incredibly presumptuous of PETA to attack the sport of Thoroughbred Horse Racing. There are some things that do indeed need to be cleared up.
You have made the statement that Gabriel Saez, our young jockey who has never abused a racehorse, “whipped Eight Belles mercilessly as she came down the final stretch, no doubt in agony from two front legs that were about to snap”. It is clear as crystal that PETA has never been able to open their narrow minds and view the larger picture. Gabe whipped her exactly five times. The fight or flight instinct of a horse is very, very sensitive. It seldom takes solid contact between the whip and the equine’s body for them to react by increasing speed. The animals, when ridden and trained by moral people, absolutely DO NOT suffer. My grandparents have been training race horses for about twenty years now, and NEVER have they pushed a horse past the limits it was capable of reaching. Not all trainers mistreat their animals, after all, how could one profit from a broken animal?
These animals are incredibly intelligent in many ways and have emotions so similar to our own that I often find myself relating better to them than people, especially when people can be so quick to witch-hunt their own kind. If a horse is unhappy, it will nearly always show its discomfort. Several horses that have entered our barns, especially one adorable filly that often flatly refused a saddle, have not wanted to race. These horses are not “cast off” or “sent to Europe to be killed for the dinner table”. In most cultures it is a great taboo to consume horsemeat, though it is still occurs in some places. When one of our horses in training does not take to racing in a harmonious manner, we consult with the owner. Of course no one wants an investment to go to waste, so it is possible to send some to pasture to grow or reach a better maturity level. If this does not fire the urge to run, then these animals can be sold and nurse mares, broodmares, and even turned into pony horses for other use on the racetrack.
I was literally raised in a barn and have always been so very close to our horses. These animals love to run. It is the greatest feeling to be in the saddle and allow the horse to do as it pleases. I understand that an organization such as PETA is passionate about what they do. So are my grandparents and all of the other thousands of people who participate in horseracing every day. I do not intend to be rude or call names in this letter. What I wish is that your organization would come to understand that there is good and bad in everything. Yes there are trainers who abuse their animals. Yes some jockeys do ride their horses to the breaking point. These are occurrences that will always find a way to happen. Perfection in any aspect of life is thoroughly out of our reach as human beings. So do petition for better standards to eradicate the abusive people in racing. Yet, do not assume that because you cried when Eight Belles breathed her last breath you are allowed to take away the lives and passions of so many people. I was on my way to senior prom when I heard our beautiful filly had to be euthanized. The tears that I cried were the most bitter ones to have ever traveled down my face.
While she will be greatly missed, many young horses are working hard as I write this to be better than their peers. The spirit of competition is not just human. Thoroughbreds nearly always enjoy what they do and to take away racing is to take away their lives. Please PETA do more research before attacking others. I ask you with all of my heart, and in the name of horse lovers everywhere.

Sincerely,

Jenda wilson

Posted by: Jenda Wilson | May 6, 2008 09:38 AM

Horse racing is simply an expoitation of animal so a person can get more buck in their wallet. Humankind can be so selfish sometimes. What if a horse whipped and sat on your back until you collapsed and died of agony and pain?

Posted by: Daphne | May 6, 2008 09:56 AM

My husband works part time constructing fences and feeding the Thoroughbred horses that are at the Texas Millenium Farms. I see horses get sent off to auction that are not going to make good "Race Horses", either due to an early detectable leg injury or what ever. These horses are sold to other countries that think HORSE MEAT is a delicacy. It does sicken me. I love horses, but I will have to tell you, the owner of Millenium Farms, Ro Parra, is from Austin, TX and when he has an injured horse that can live a good life, just not race, he has his people find a good home for it, for FREE!

I know that there are more horses than you can imagine put down each year on tracks. The reason is, the horse racing assn. allows steroid use up until close to a race. What happens is these horses get to big and heavy to carry their body weght, and steriod use causes brittle bones. If there was monthly testing throughout the entire horses life, maybe they wouldn't be as big and strong, but they would all be on the same playing field.

Also, every horse has a birthday on Jan 1 of each year, so a horse born in December is considered 1 year old in January, so you actually have 2 year olds racing in the Derby. This too needs to be changed.

Tina

Posted by: Tina Keeling | May 6, 2008 10:08 AM

I have been reading about Eight Belles and even went to YouTube to see if I could see exactly what happened and can't see well enough of what happened. But then I got into the cruelty of Rodeo animals and if all these people think that horse racing is cruel then they need to pull up some of the rodeo videos and watch them then they will see REAL cruelty. At least when a horse is hurt on the track they have a vet there to attend to it not at the rodeo!! They just drag the animal out of the arena still in pain and suffering in front of the crowd which does include young children. It doesn't even compare to horse racing. I think PETA should look into Rodeos also if they haven't already.
On the one point with horse racing I am sticking with they are too young to be running.

Posted by: Bonnie | May 6, 2008 10:22 AM

OK, I've been reading all the comments on here. I was a jockey for many years and I can tell you many facts regarding the behind the scenes world of the tracks. I'm just finishing my book called "Tears for Horses". It will enlighten everyone to how a horse starts out and exactly how they are trained and treated or mistreated. No, it is not the jockies fault when a horse breaks down. Put it square on the trainers head. A jockey does what the trainer tells him. Why he walked away from Eight Bells after she went down you ask. You have no idea how tough it is to be on a horse you like and then they break a leg and you have to jump off and try to hold them up waiting for the ambulance knowing they will be euthenized. It is way too sad to stay and watch so don't blame him for walking away. Try walking in someone elses shoes before you throw blame. There is a ton of blame to pass around but the jockey is just the innocent employee of the trainers. It is a very dangerous career and many jockies have been killed during a race and we sure don't blame the horse when that happens.
The entire horseracing world is a very sad state of affairs and if the public only knew what goes on. You will be enlightened by my book, if you read it.

Posted by: RUCRAZY | May 6, 2008 10:24 AM

Why is Peta not immersing this in news coverage like they did with the Michael Vick fiesco. Why isn't this getting the media attention like michael vick. Suspended, the jockey should be in jail.

Posted by: vronca | May 6, 2008 10:37 AM

All for the love of money. Although I've only watched the Derby a couple times in my life, I can safely say after last weeks tragedy, I don't have the desire to see one again. If folks want to see changes, they need to boycott the races by not watching, promoting, or even betting on them. Just my opinion. Until then, the rich community will just keep on breeding their disposable animals for their viewing pleasure no matter the cost.

Posted by: D. Goodman | May 6, 2008 10:39 AM

I tried to make a post yesterday but it did not get on the board, so now that I have calmed down a bit, I think I'll try again.

I would like to start out saying what a tragedy this weekend's Kentucky Derby was. But, as a person who has grown up with horses, I would have made the same decission to put her down on the track. Something you learn very early in life around horses, is that you can't make a horse do something he doesn't want to do. When a horse runs as fast as Eight Bells did this weekend, you could tell she loved doing her job.

First of all, I would like to address the people who are blaming Eight Bell's jockey. Number one, a jockey doesn't ride a horse day in and day out. They might ride the horse the week before the meet, and during the race, but the rest of the time an exercise rider runs the horse at home, and sometimes in the first few small races.

Secondly, just like people, a horse breaks bones in a matter of seconds. It would be just like me walking out in my service department and tripping over something and breaking my ankle. I don't know that my ankle is broken until AFTER I trip.

Also, I would like to address the person that claimed the jockey caused Eight Bells to trip by standing up in his stirrups. Ok, lets think about this logically. You are 5 feet tall and weigh in at 100 pounds. (The weight limit is 110 lbs, but most jocks try to keep less than, becasue it is better for a steward to add weight.) You are riding a 2,000 lbs animal who is running as fast as she can for as long as she can. I ride show horses, and the first word we teach our horses is whoa. Race horses are taught to run and run fast, they don't know what the word whoa means, and they don't know that just because they crossed the finish line they can stop. Horses are intellegent, but if they were any smarter than they already are we would be working for them. So you've got this 100 lbs. jock on this 2,000 lbs. horse trying to slow her down. The only way for that jock to get some leverage is to stand up in his stirrups and pull back. The bits race horses are run with are the lightest and easiest bits in the world. They are taught to take that bit in their teeth and run with it. So I hope this part of my little speach has shed some light on this for those of y'all who make assumptions about horses and their riders.

Now I would like to adress PETA. I think what y'all do is a noble cause, but you should really do some research BEFORE you make assumptions and ruin people's lives. These race horses are multi-million dollar horses. They are treated much better than you or I am, at work, at home, and even at the mall. The horses live in heat and ac facilities. They have coble stone down their alley ways, and clean straw and shavinigs in their stalls every day.

Some people made some accusations in the post that horses were sent to the meat factory after they won the Derby. Ok, honestly? Owners who have horses whom they THINK can compete in a race like the Derby don't have their stud colts gelded. Horses that run these high dollar races are able to reproduce, so there is no reason why any of these horses would be taken to a meat factory. (Even if they don't live cover well, there are other ways of getting seamen to cover a mare.)

Posted by: Corteny | May 6, 2008 10:40 AM

AS A PREVIOUS HORSE BETTOR,I Have seen this scenario all too many times before.It always makes me sick to see a horse be put down.There is way too much weight riding on those 4 skinny legs.That is why some of these injuries occur.It is all about greed and money.The humans go broke and the horses sometimes pay the ultimate price.The only way it is going to stop is to put an end to the horse racing industry entirely.KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK PETA-I LOVE ANIMALS AND AM BEHIND YOU ALL THE WAY!!!

Posted by: BRYAN | May 6, 2008 10:50 AM

As an owner of three horses now retired from service to humans, I am sickened by the treatment of this filly. As as sire of Unbridled Passion, past Triple Crown contender, she was not yet two years old. Too young to be pushed so hard. The late songwriter Dan Fogelberg wrote a beautiful composition with regard to Derby contenders and the nice fantasy of their lives we humans create to justify our compulsions...I take the liberty to add one stanza to the end of the song:

Run for the Roses
Too young and too brave
Run for the Roses
They'll place on your grave.

For Eight Belles and all the other imprisoned animals whose lives were given needlessly, may you be free now.

Posted by: Robyn E. Roberts | May 6, 2008 10:59 AM

You are barking up the wrong tree. Jockeys are also victims. Victims of pain killing or deadening drugs most of which are adminestered to horses or dispensed by Veterinarians.
This horse probably did the damage during the race but did not know it, so there was no signal to the jockey to pull up as they always do. If the horse goes down, so does the jockey. Jockeys do not like to die or be paralysed for life as many are. Drugs and merchants of drugs are to blame in most cases. In addition, femails are not as strong as males no matter their great heart and courage and should never be forced to compete with them. Ruffian, Rags to Riches and now this one.Put the blame and shame where it properly belongs.

Posted by: Dan Foster | May 6, 2008 11:06 AM

i dont think that anyone responding to this blog fully understands horse racing or horses in general. everyone thinks that horses are so gentle and can comprehend complex things but they cant. I love horses and didnt realized this untill i worked with them, the reason jockeys whip the horses, or why anyone whips horses, is to get their attention, the whipping does not hurt them as much as people think it does. What happened in the case of Eight Belles was a tragedy, but her injuries could have happened anywhere not just on the racetrack, it was just a sad coincidence that it did.

Posted by: Becki | May 6, 2008 11:07 AM

I wanted to take a second to respond to TAMRA MULLINS......God woman, give it a break! We have seen enough of your ill-fated rantings here. Do you just sit and read this blog and then keep responding with the same jibberish OVER AND OVER? Get over it and quit embarrassing yourself here. The horse was bred to race, it raced, came in second, broke its legs in the process and was mercifully euthanized. Move on! It happens and will continue to happen and PETA (God bless them) wil have NO IMPACT on the sport. TAMRA.....PLEASE for the love of Christ, GET OVER IT!

Posted by: Joseph Boeck | May 6, 2008 11:09 AM

Concentrate PETA and friends on things you can change. Horses were meant to race. Just because a horse died at the Derby, what do you think happens every day, not even at the races...Just last week in Jackson County, Ohio somebody had neglected over 65 horses they were supposed to cared for, over half were put down, grossly starved to death. The jockey is innocent, he was only doing his job. Get the facts first, don't comment on things you don't know about! Peta I normally respected your organization, but this is too far afield.

Posted by: Linda | May 6, 2008 11:09 AM

I was absolutely heartbroken to learn about what happened to Eight Belles. Its absolutely DISGUSTING to know this jockey whipped, and encouraged this horse to continue racing on two broken front ankles. Gabriel Saez knew "something" was wrong. Why didn't he just slow her down and STOP? What an idiot! He should be banned from ever racing horses again. Keep up the good work PETA!

Posted by: Ginger | May 6, 2008 11:15 AM

Don't stop the derby! One horse died. They have fragile bones. Don't sue the jockey. Thank you for reading mine.

Posted by: Jakii Teal | May 6, 2008 11:22 AM

Thanks for not posting my earlier letter, that was very democratic of you.
I've been a vegetarian since I was 16, and I am now 38. Can you hold a candle to that? The difference with me is that I think for myself, and I know a thing or two about horses. PETA is wrong on this issue, period. Censoring my voice on this blog may not be wrong, but it is certainly weak.

Posted by: Jack | May 6, 2008 11:25 AM

I am appauled at what some people will do for the almighty dollar.
as as any horse owner knows a horse will truly run it's heart out for you until it drops, Unfortunately there are some humans that take advantage of this and even more sad there are those that are not responsible enough animal owners to watch out for the best intrest of the animal. I think these type of people should not be allowed the priveledge of owning one of Gods creatures.
May Eight Bells' finally be free

Posted by: Janet | May 6, 2008 11:33 AM

People, These horses are not doing this against their will. Did ANY of you even watch the race. You can see it in their eye the freedom the will to run. When she crossed that line she new she did it. Her ears were up she was happy. Because 3 year olds are still growning their bones can be brittle. She probably had a growth spurt during the week or the night before making her bones not as strong as they should. As far as Vic vs Horse racing. Vic was making dogs kill each other and burtilized them. Horses are not doing things against their will they are doing what they loved. If they didnt want to do it they wouldnt have made it to the derby. Should there be reform yes, I cried the whole weekend over bell. Her and I are kindered spirts. The injury she sustain she would not have been able to come back from. Horses cant lay down THEY MUST STAND. The sad part is she did not get to enjoy her accomplishment. They DID NOT put her down because she came in 2nd. She will be MISSED!!!!

Posted by: CC | May 6, 2008 11:41 AM

Excellor, another magnificent champion, was sent to a horrific death in a slaughterhouse in 1997 after winning trophies and millions for his owners, trainers, etc.
Yep, these people "love" these magnificent animals once they can't make money anymore, don't they?

Posted by: Rachel | May 6, 2008 11:44 AM

I am troubled by some of the comments on this blog. It appears to an outsider that some PETA members might be seriously disturbed individuals. I realize it's quite possible that the more frightening entries don't necessarily reflect PETA positions. Rather shocking if they do. Particularly, suggesting that the jockey, owner, and trainer should be killed as a result of Eight Belles breaking down in the Derby, is borderline sociopathic. To the person that wrote that, Priscilla Beeman, I think you seriously need to seek counseling to address what's really missing in your life.

Posted by: pat | May 6, 2008 11:49 AM

Eight