After the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes, the third leg of the Triple Crown races, the Belmont Stakes commenced on 10th June and caused a stir among horse riding enthusiasts with its off-the-charts events. However, the third and final Triple Crown domain turned into a bittersweet competition at Belmont Park in New York as the equestrian world celebrated Arcangelo’s triumph in the Belmont Stakes, only to be overshadowed by the heartbreaking euthanization of Excursionniste. The Equibase race chart confirmed that the horse’s injuries from the final race led to this tragic outcome, casting a shadow over the Triple Crown.
With each leg of the prestigious event now marked by the loss of a horse, concerns about the safety and welfare of these magnificent athletes loom large. The contrasting emotions of victory and sorrow within the equestrian realm prompt a pressing need for introspection and proactive measures.
Calls for improved equestrian welfare intensify after recent horse tragedy
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The recent news of Excursionniste’s untimely demise at Belmont Park has sparked deep concern and a wave of discussion on social media platforms, including the Facebook page of USA Today. This tragic incident adds to a troubling pattern of horse fatalities that have occurred during significant racing events, such as the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes. With two horses already lost on the day of the Derby and another under Bob Baffert’s training at Pimlico Race Course, the industry’s practices have come under scrutiny.
Read More: 2 Years After the Infamous Kentucky Derby Controversy, Hall of Fame Trainer Receives Massive Jolt
The reported death toll of approximately 2,000 horses annually, as tracked by activist Patrick Battuelo, highlights the urgent need for increased focus on horse welfare within the equestrian community. Facebook users and horse racing enthusiasts alike are expressing their devastation and demanding immediate action to address these heartbreaking losses and ensure a safer future for equestrian sports.
Public outcry against horse racing’s disregard for animals
In order to express their disregards, many fans flocked to the comment section and shared their outlooks on the same. One penned, “No love for animals here,” and emphasized the perceived lack of compassion towards the horses. Another person shared their concern, stating, “These owners are too quick to euthanize these beautiful animals that worked so hard for them. Many could be rehabbed, but no longer race. Not given the option.” The frustration continues with someone exclaiming, “I’m so sick of hearing about these racehorses being put down.”
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Reflecting on the situation, another comment highlights the perceived disregard for life, saying, “It’s a shame all they care about is winning and money, it doesn’t matter how many horses have to die.” Summing up the sentiment, a concise observation is made, “Sad this is all about money.” These heartfelt remarks showcase the public’s disappointment and disillusionment with the prioritization of financial gains over the well-being of the horses in the racing industry.
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