The Kentucky Derby is a festive event attended by the most elite members of society.
The handsome men in their expensive suits are suave and elegant. The perfectly groomed females in their most spectacular hats and designer attire only add to the atmosphere.
The hype and the television coverage are grossly overused for a simple two minute race.
The Kentucky Derby is yet another affluent American indulgence attended by the supremely prosperous and only watched on television by the mass majority.
The Kentucky Derby was a horrible tragedy this year. Big Brown was the winner. But Eight Belles, a filly had to be euthanized while still on the track. Animal lovers everywhere were outraged and sickened by this seemingly “fun sport.”
Horse racing is a sport for the very rich. It is extremely expensive to maintain and raise quality thoroughbred racing horses. There is a positive and uplifting side to horse racing in the story of “Sea Biscuit.” Then again, there is a terrible and sad side in the story of “Black Beauty” and now Eight Belles.
A racing horse is truly an awesome and inspiring creature. They are massive beasts of both beauty and grace. Their large bodies effortlessly carried by four slim legs. But the legs of these magnificent beasts are most vulnerable. We witnessed this year at the Kentucky Derby, that the limbs of a race horse can be very fragile.
We can cradle distressed whales in large hammocks and rescue them from the ocean. But horses are not sea mammals. Horses have to stand. Euthanizing Eight Belle where she fell was the only option.
I want to believe that the trainers and owners of these fabulous creatures care and love them. But the reality is that horse racing is big business. I cannot help but be a little skeptical of their motives. Winning horses make more money for their owners than most of us can even fathom.
I know that the vision of that lovely filly lying on the track moaning in pain will haunt horse lovers forever. It is true that euthanizing was the only humane choice. But is participating in horse racing whether as a fan or owner a humane choice?
Rest in peace Eight Belles, where all your pastures now will be eternally green.
