“I Literally Screamed”: Equestrian Community Horrified Over Ghastly Treatment to Ex-NFL Coach’s Horse at Saratoga

The prestigious race track witnessed another sad death on its track yesterday. It reignited the debate about the lack of proper care for the equine partners and left the equestrian community horrified. The horse was Maple Leaf Mel, owned by the ex-NFL coach Bill Parcells. Maple Leaf Mel fell during the race at the Saratoga race course and was euthanized after consultation with the veterinary doctor.

The race was watched by thousands of spectators and they felt dreadful following the demise of the equine. Many people shared their disappointment on their social media accounts and paid their condolences for the horse. Dave Portnoy, the founder of Barstool Sports, was also present on the stands of Saratoga race tracks and witnessed the incident. His emotional post attracted reactions of many from the equestrian community.

Dave Portnoy shares his devastation on horse death

Dave Portnoy shared his emotional outburst on his Twitter account. In the post, he said, “That was the most horrific thing I’ve ever witnessed at a track. So sad. So awful. Devastating“. The influencer’s post got 2.2 Million views and a load of comments.

Yesterday, at the Saratoga racecourse, a Grade 1 $500,000 Test Stakes was being held. The seven-furlong race was for three-year-old fillies. Bill Parcells, the retired Pro Football Hall of Fame coach, owned Maple Leaf Mel, who was participating in the race. At the race, the filly took the lead from the start and in the closing stage of the race was in contention with the rivals for the podium when it fell on the ground near the finish line. The horse got up but was stumbling to walk.

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According to the New York Racing Association statement, Maple Leaf Mel sustained a severe injury on her front right leg. After consultation with on-site veterinarians, she was euthanized due to the injury. The filly was ridden by Joel Rosario and was taken to hospital for treatment of facial abrasion.  The fans also shared the emotions of Dave and commented on his post.

Fans share their devastation at the horse’s death

The incident was witnessed by thousands who were left shattered by horse’s death. They came forward and shared their views on Portnoy’s post. One fan displaying her shock and acknowledging that it was due to its happening in front of her, penned…

Suggesting that with the increase in horse deaths, the sport is now not worth watching, another fan wrote..

Another one expressed his condolences and stated…

Pointing out the greed of owners that surpasses the need to care for the animals, another one wrote…

The incident of Maple Leaf Mel’s death was horrific and, along with Portnoy, the whole equestrian community is saddened and grief stricken. The horse’s health and care should be prime and the owners and racing authorities should take measures to ensure their safety as a priority, don’t you agree?

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