Cheltenham 2.55 - 2 Fatalities

[drmorgans]

 

I really enjoy horseracing but today I had my doubts. Abuffalosolider led from the start and bounded over the fences (a 3 1/2 mile chase), but after the finish line, collapsed, later confirmed dead. Earlier the commentator said that Bangers and Cash has suffered what turned out to be a fatal injury.

 

[Buenchico]

They're just 2 of the 12 horses that have died so far this month in the so-called 'sport':
https://www.horsedeathwatch.com/

[AnthonyBryant123]

I spent the morning doting on mine and my daughters horse, Crumble. He's super affectionate. The best pet ever. 

I took said 16yr old and her friend to her first ever race event in the afternoon. All was going well... until the 2.55. 

I watched Bangers and Cash crash through the fence, lifeless thereafter. I observed the dismantled jockey rush to his side. Distraught. 

The jockey club arguably did well to erect almost instant barriers to prevent the aghast onlookers from observing the death of a potential money maker. 

I was bought to tears.

The true irony folded thereafter...

The winning horse "Buffalo Soldier" ... a name synonymous with one of our most gentile predecessors... went on to lead from the front and win the race. The horse I betted on won!

The horse then died. 

Never again will I put any money into this type of event. Never. 

Accidents happen and I get that. This was, in my opinion, unashamedly disrespectful, of one of the most magical and honourable of beasts. One which had tried so very hard to please us, it gave its life. Two lifes. 

When was the last time you saw human athletes, whom CHOOSE to participate, fall dead after or during a race? 

By all means enjoy galloping on our noble friends. Let's stop flogging them to destruction for our so called entertainment. Please. X

[wolf63]

Chris, the list of horse deaths is quite frightening.

If horses are dropping dead then something is wrong.  The course shouldn't be killing healthy animals.

Broke leg - destroyed seems a bit cruel.  I realise that, in some cases, there is no option but to destroy the animal.  But it seems to happen far too often.

 

[drmorgans]

 

A third horse, Napper Tandy, died in the race following, due to a fall.