It took less than 24 hours for the nuts to become vocal

[somerfrost]

I remain a PETA member because they alone have the muscle and will-power to speak for the animals world-wide who suffer unbelievable abuse...as Pgardn and others have documented, they do so much good...but the public perception is distorted due to episodes like this! Working in animal rescue, many times I have felt the anger and frustration...so easy to seek blame! This certainly appears to be a tragic event that simply "happened"...blame must take a back seat to sorrow. Do we need to look at whip use in this country? I believe the answer is "yes"...other parts of the world have drastically reduced whip usage without damaging the sport, I think we should also. Surfaces? it's still early but the stats clearly show that while number of injuries remain somewhat constant with poly surfaces (compared to dirt), the number of catastrophic injuries is statistically significantly reduced...we must place horse (and jockey) welfare above handicapping concerns here! So...yes, PETA has valid points here....but attacking this young man is clearly wrong. I agree that PETA is it's own worst enemy many times...but I understand the emotional context from which these actions materialize. There simply is no justification for slaughtering animals in cruel and vicious acts of barbarism, whether it's peasants in Mexico, slaughterhouse employees in Canada, Michael Vick in the US or YUM Brands to produce KFC chicken. Then there is "research" for drug and cosmetic companies...the list of abuses go on seemingly forever. Yes, PETA often behaves badly and I feel "gets it wrong" in regards to racing...but at least they are heard...and someone has to speak up! RIP Eight Belles! My heart goes out to her connections and the brave young man who rode her!