In Memoriam
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HRN contributor Jody Lawrence presents a heartfelt tribute to the horses lost over the weekend.
We, in the thoroughbred racing industry, suffered a tremendous loss this past Thanksgiving weekend. This is not a topic we like to discuss but out of honor and respect, needs to be said.
Six of our beloved athletes lost their lives on the track, or shortly after.
As lovers of the sport, we follow these magnificent horses and their connections from start to finish. We come to know them as family. We worry when we hear of injuries, rejoice in their wins, sigh at a closely run second and cry when tragedy strikes.
Fortunately, it doesn’t usually happen so often or in such numbers as what occurred over the weekend. Unfortunately, it doesn’t make each death any less painful or easier to bear.
I’ve already seen blogs saying that racing is a cruel and senseless sport. These are from the people who don’t understand that any of these life ending circumstances could have happened in a pasture or barn. The thoroughbred runs for the love of running, whether it’s on the track or off, it’s as simple as that.
To the connections of:
General Maximus, BZ Warrior, Galex, Back Street Heat, Irrefutable and Cloud Man, you don’t suffer alone. Each of us share your loss and cry your tears. Please find peace knowing that all will be remembered for the excitement and joy they brought us…for the very short time they were with us.
Jody Lawrence
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