Equestrian Fans Look Back At A Horrible Horse’s Death at Kentucky Derby 2023: “People Need To Be in Jail”

Published 03/31/2024, 9:15 AM EDT

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Following the 2023 Kentucky Derby, concerns over horse fatalities prompted the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) to investigate the root causes behind these tragic incidents. Led by racetrack expert Dennis Moore, the inquiry examined various factors affecting track conditions but failed to pinpoint a single cause for the deaths.

If we look at common contributors to equestrian fatalities it may be due to severe hemorrhages, musculoskeletal injuries, and digestive disorders. Amid investigations and troubling statistics, recent reports have shed light on the loss of 85 horses at Kentucky tracks in the previous year. This revelation has ignited widespread public outcry and outrage. The corelation between equine mismanagement and their deaths were stark and a recent update uncovered harrowing details.

Inside the dark underbelly of equestrian fatal secrets

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Recently, Horseracing Wrongs shared a poignant post on Facebook. It recounts the tragic fate of Thundering Creed, one among the distressing tally of 85 horses lost at Kentucky tracks in the past year. Thundering Creed’s demise was marked by severe cervical fractures and spinal cord severance after a routine gallop. The accompanying image depicted him confined in a small stall, isolated on the grass, appearing to suffer. The caption poignantly lamented, “A life marked by exploitation, solitary confinement, and abuse, culminating in a brutal end at just five years old. May he rest in peace, his demise serving as a stark reminder of the cruelties endured in horseracing.”

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Indeed, Thundering Creed’s story is just one among many heartbreaking instances. Su Say Sashie’s fate, falling victim to a humerus fracture at the tender age of four, and Wild On Ice’s harrowing experience of enduring multiple fractures at a mere three years old prevail too. Each account paints a distressing picture of the perils endured by these majestic animals in the name of sport.

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Others who passed away last year were Spartan Army, Tempting Choice, Witch of November, Tango Yankee, Usain, Sew Blazin, Tazawako, Way too Smarte, and numerous others. Each of these individuals faced untimely demises marked by accounts of injuries and fractures. Their tragic stories evoke a profound sense of collective sorrow and concern, prompting a demand for comprehensive measures to ensure the well-being of equestrians and prevent further loss of life.

Reactions to disturbing horse welfare concerns

Amidst the rising tide of concern among the equestrian community, numerous voices have surfaced in response to the distressing posts. One individual firmly stated, No horse should endure such confinements or be exploited to the point of death.” This sentiment was echoed by another commentator who insisted, All these people need to be in jail!!” Further adding to the discourse, a commenter expressed incredulity at the conditions faced by these animals, remarking, “I can’t even imagine her suffering, and the stall she’s in is tiny.” Meanwhile, criticism extended to larger events, with a pointed observation that lamented, “Kentucky Derby all in the name of greed and entertainment.”

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Finally, a succinct yet poignant remark summed up the sentiment: “Terrible!” These responses underscore a mounting outcry against the treatment of horses within the industry, highlighting deep-seated concerns regarding confinement, exploitation, and the ethical implications of competitive events.

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Written by:

Maleehah Shakeel

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Maleehah Shakeel is an Olympic Sports writer at EssentiallySports who covers equestrian sports, rodeo, bull riding, and Gymnastics. Maleehah’s stories revolve around various brand endorsement deals of athletes like Jessica Springsteen, Jennifer Gates, and Olivia Dunne. She has written in depth about the brand collaboration between Jessica Springsteen and Tommy Hilfiger.
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Edited by:

Himanshu Sridhar