Comments on: wow, they’re on it!

By: jdp

jdp — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 06:06:46 +0000

MiKael, I totally agree. I think a zero-tolerance policy is the only way to go. California is really remiss in not addressing the drug problem in racing – and I don’t mean just steroids.

Beckz, You totally nailed it. It’s really disturbing to be around horses who are wound so tight – it’s so unnatural to their natures, especially the Standardbreds I work with who are just big love bugs. Some grooms have favorite horses and are really good to them but by and large, most horses get the bare minimum when it comes to interaction, never mind affection. The really savvy trainers, and often they have small barns, know that the horse will try harder for you if there’s some kind of bond. But I would say the majority see them as a means to an end, and no more.

By: Beckz

Beckz — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 22:42:50 +0000

I just really feel for the mental problems these horses suffer from because they are all roided up. Hell how much affection does a racehorse get anyway when its not drug aggressive?? The poor ones on steriods just get no love. Still, letters as punishment? Big whoop. I agree with MiKael give them a years suspension, that would clean the game up real fast.

By: risingrainbow

risingrainbow — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 16:46:11 +0000

There will always be those human beings who have to be cheaters whatever the game is. Just like the show horses, once there is a test for a drug, a new one will be found. But at least in my industry horses that test positive have consequences. Owners and trainers are suspended for a least a year and sometimes more. That means not only that horses, but all horses they own and for the trainer all horses that they train. AND the people involved aren’t even allowed on the show grounds of any sanctioned shows during their suspension. Personally I thought a year wasn’t enough.

By: jdp

jdp — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 14:41:31 +0000

Also? The guy who recommends frying french fries in horse fat b/c they’re fluffier? He’s not my favorite, either.

By: jdp

jdp — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 14:37:35 +0000

Well, it has always bothered me – I’d get hired to massage a horse and then find the horse was unable to get much benefit from the massage b/c they could never relax and their muscles were so tense – like steel cables. And I can’t speak for all the tracks, but I’ve seen a lot of trainers get slaps on the wrist for things and they just keep on doing it.

By: mrs mom

mrs mom — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 11:52:56 +0000

Dont hold back JDP– tell us how you REALLY feel there…. No seriously, come on, tell us!

OK OK– all kidding aside here, great post. The stern letter ought to make trainers shake in their boots, and the resulting slap on the wrist that is going to be the end result will have them running in fear…. Please.

It will be interesting to watch this as it takes place….