Is it our fault?

[MisterB]

Gator hunting is an option.

[my miss storm cat]

Originally Posted by Cardus

After reading this, I'm having another Heineken.

Oh my God Cardus I am soooo dreadfully sorry and hope that I didn't hurt you in any way when I held that gun to your head to read this thread.

You okay?

Whew... thank God.

I just logged on but am sure there are a couple of other threads this morning that need the sarcasm fairy to do a fly-by and sprinkle some of your special you-people--both-annoy-and-bore-me-so here's-a-line-of-what-I-see as-wit-but-really-it's-just-bitterness dust. Hooray!

* * *

Thanks for posting that, Touch of Grey.

This is what I was trying to say but couldn't...

Many teenage jockeys who are suddenly out on their own have similar challenges that NBA or NFL rookies face. Too much money and too many undesirable hangers-on. These young riders need the same kind of guidance and advice other professional athletes are receiving.

I agree with Honu and Uncle (Freddy) Mo (Mo)... c'mon you have kids. Would you throw them to the wolves at a young age and expect they'd be able to deal with all of it and well?

Aaah well...

[AeWingnut]

yes, it is my fault.

[dalakhani]

MMSC-

That was wonderful.

God rest his soul and condolences to the family.

Is it our fault? Its the life that they have chosen. I think that there are worse ways to make a living. We could say the same to a degree about amateur fighters, mixed martial artists or any other endeavor where little regard is given to the dangers and rigors that the performers face. Sadly, that comes with the job.

I consider myself a jockey apologist. I can find an excuse for any decision a jockey makes no matter how bad it may be (kent d is my fav, go figure). At the same time, if he were to die tomorrow on the track or if it were Smokin Joe or Joel Rosario, I wouldn't feel sorry for him and i certainly wouldn't blame myself no matter the age or circumstance.

They get to ride these amazing animals in front of thousands of people...for money. That sounds like a pretty decent gig to me.

[Cannon Shell]

Why doesn't the jockeys guild address these problems?

[Danzig]

mmsc, baze was a baby? sorry, i disagree. he was 24, a grown man. life is difficult at times for everyone, whether you're a jock, a policeman, in sales, whatever.
everyone has to make choices in life, and then live with the consequences of those choices. this young man came from a background in the world he chose; surely he had people to help him along the way. but at some point, he chose a bad path.

i'd have to say no, it's not our fault. people too seldom take responsbility for their actions; i'm not about to help anyone do that.

is it a shame that he died? absolutely. i feel bad for his parents, his family, his friends. he was way too young. it's a damn shame.