4:04 PM Wed, May 07, 2008 | Permalink
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Here are a couple more comments I received via email on Eight Belles. It's obviously a story that brings many strong opinions.
From senn4303@bellsouth.net
"I think people are over reacting about Eight Belles' injury. It is terrible that she was hurt, but any horse can be hurt doing anything. A horse could just slip in its stall as easily as Eight Belles was hurt. You cannot do anything with a horse that does not threaten its life, that includes simple things such as feeding it or turning the horse out to graze in the field. I see no reason to suspend the jockey, he did not break her ankles. People need to look at the fact that not many horses have been hurt during the Derby. Heck, two horses were put down at the Rolex this year."
and from Maggie N:
"I am another racing fan that will not go back to Churchill to watch the carnage.When comparing the Eight Belle filly to the muscular large boned Big Brown just ahead of her in the stretch, she clearly was not a match. And excessive use of the whip by the jockey was definitely a contributing factor. She should have been in the Oaks with
other fillies at 1 1/8 mile the previous day. I am not surprised that PETA has become involved. I only hope that more voices will be heard for those who cannot speak."
Maggie N.
Almost none of the 3 year olds who’ve ever ran in any derby are 100 % sound. They all have 4 legs and if it's not one ailment it's another. I think people who don't know what their talking about regarding horse racing and the depth of this tragedy should keep their opinions to themselves out of respect and allow the real racing fans to mourn our loss. For the people who won't return to the track because of alleged excessive whipping and carnage which the proof of them not understanding the first thing about it, the sport is better off without you. They don't understand or even consider how devastated the jockey is, it was a nightmare for everybody. People who make these blanket statements are the same people rubber necking as they pass auto accidents. But let's all agree with them and their concerns since they know what’s best for all and can speak for the entire world on the subject of sports. I think we should stop NASCAR and the Indy 500 because of the risk of death of the drivers. No boxing no more football hockey or cheer leading because of the risk of injury. Let’s all just sit around and have a taffy pull or sewing circle. Knitting is also a big kick and when we're done we'll all go out to the mall.
my heart is heavy with the passing of eight belles...too young and full of life to be put down.i question why she was put down so quickly, all alone without anyone near to comfort her in her last minutes....how could the vet put her down without the owner at least seeing her and making his own decision...also the jocky...walking by in a photo that clearly shows he is unconcerned.....i love animals and even with the knowledge that she might not make it what with the severe injuries she suffered...at least afford some comfort her in her last moments with those that care for her and love her...what a sad way to die...without anyone you love beside you.. i am devastated and will always hold this special horse in my heart