“Not Sufficient”: Horse Community Outraged by the Heartbreaking Loss of Practical Move

The popular Grade 1 Thoroughbred Horse Racing series, Breeders Cup World Championships, keeps equestrian fans on their toes. Eagerly waiting throughout the year, the equine-trainer duos partake in several qualifying events, only to secure a position in the big event. Having said that, the 40th edition of the event gets back-to-back shocks before its commencement on November 3.

A 3-year-old colt named Practical Move met with his life-ending fate this Tuesday as he breathed his last at Santa Anita. The fact that this big event would have been a life-changing one for him, worldwide fans mourn the big loss.

Equestrian statement after the colt’s demise

The administration of Breeders Cup made the tragic announcement in a press release after the incident. While returning from his pre-event warming-up gallop at Santa Anita on Tuesday, the colt had a cardiac arrest. Saturday’s early 3-1 second choice awaited one of the biggest races of his career. But the $1 million Dirt Mile lost him too soon.

Though the rider didn’t face any major injuries, the California Horse Racing Board, Breeders Cup, and 1/ST Racing veterinarians couldn’t save the equine. To this, Breeders Cup had taken to their X handle to post “NEWS: Statement on Practical Move.” They also shared the website link alongside. Though the board claimed that they looked into every matter, it didn’t convince the fans.

Along similar lines, Breeders Cup authorities had said, “Breeders’ Cup is committed to continuously improving the ecosystem of care surrounding every horse.” To implement safety and integrity protocols, the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) joins hands with the host to better things.

Horse racing fans left in shock

The popular Miami Futures Trader mourned the loss of the great and expressed love for these beautiful animals. They wrote, “Very sad. Horses are majestic creatures and perhaps my favorite “wild” animal.”

Another fan showed concern over repetitive horse fatalities. According to PETA, California reported 71 horse deaths with Practical’s sad passing. To add to this, the horse enthusiast wrote, “Why does it seem like this is happening every day?” 

One fan confidently spoke about the Breeders Cup being cursed, hence the unfortunate set of events. He wrote, “Horrid. I swear the BC is cursed.”

On the other hand, another wrote a eulogy, saying, “Such a sweet horse and was looking forward to his appearance in the Breeders’ Cup. RIP Practical Move. A life too short.”

Another fan questioned the skill sets of vet and raised an allegation, saying, “I love this sport. But I’m tired and sick to my stomach seeing horse after horse I hire do and dying! The vet checks clearly are NOT sufficient. Where are cardiac checks?”

READ MORE: “Such a Difficult Week”: Equestrian Community Mourns the Passing of Renowned 10-Year-Old Horse Tom’s Ready

As horse fatalities are increasing at a concerning rate, Breeders Cup gets ready for a sad opening on November 3. The 2-day event awaits some real power pact displays, but won’t over the losses.

Watch this story: USA Equestrian Dominates Santiago with Stellar Cross-Country Performance