From the Bloodhorse Chat transcript:

Las Vegas, NE
Other than synthetic tracks, what other changes
would you recommend to make horse racing safer?

Dickinson: I would like to see the starting gate replaced
by the Standardbreds type moving truck. The starting gate
can be scary for horse and rider, and we’ve all witnessed
some horrific scenes when the horse is upside down.

Even if the horse is standing correctly, there is always a risk
for even further injury when he pushes off with so much power
from a standing start. It is dangerous to stifles and the injuries
are not uncommon due to force needed in a starting gate.

The drawback in this plan would be the loss of jobs for the gate crew
who, along with the farriers, are the unsung heroes of racing.
The gate crews are brave, skillful, and compassionate --
and I would hate to see any of them without a well paid job.
Two is to abolish anabolic steroids and three is the change the whip rules.


What do you think?

TRANSCRIPT
http://www.bloodhorse.com/talkinhorses/MD120706.asp