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Originally Posted by Concern
Unlike Barbaro's situation that spawned some positives in fundraising, etc., there was nothing beneficial for the industry as a result of Ruffian's demise and many scribes have pointed to her breakdown as the industry's darkest day. Nevertheless, I don't suggest that her story shouldn't be told and there have been a number of well-done documentaries that showcased her extraordinary career. This movie, though, is not only unnecessary but also factually incorrect and inaccurately presented if one is to believe quotes attributed to her trainer, Frank Whiteley, in the legal documents and various interviews. Whiteley is on record as stating that he has no problem with the movie if the facts were properly presented. This man was not interested in personal financial gain, as is evidenced by the fact that one of his terms not agreed upon in negotiations to sell his story was that a portion be donated to thoroughbred charities. I'll go out on a limb here, but my money says that Nack requested no such clause when negotiating his compensation.
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Ruffian's tragic death was in fact the impetus to the remarkable surgery and after care that horses are receiving today. It's hard to even read a veterinary article on breaks without Ruffians name being mentioned, and in fact the Equine Hospital that serves the Southern California racetracks has a beautiful painting of Ruffian in the waiting room, with a tribute to her and an article listing all the advances since that day. Ruffian was the first race horse I absolutely loved and though I can vividly remember the heartbreak of her ordeal, she was far too great to not have a movie or story, there are so many race fans even on this board who knew nothing of her accomplishments. It's long overdue in my opinion, I just hope they do her memory justice.