Tragedy at the Derby

Oaks Day, the day before the derby ended up a total wash. It poured all afternoon and the track was a muddy mess but still the races went on even if half the crowd left. Derby Day was clear and cool, much improved from the day before. Unfortunately, a perfect day for racing was forever marred by Eight Belles breaking both of her ankles during cool down after finishing second in the Derby.

Big Brown won in grand fashion and he deserves praise but the whole day was ruined for me when the Filly was euthanized on the track after the horrific accident.

It was just two years ago, when Derby winner Barbaro broke a leg while running in the Preakness. Since, it was only one leg they did all they could to save him but eight months after the accident he too was euthanized.

Growing up in Louisville, I've spent much time at the track but these incidents have certainly put a pall over horse racing for me.