tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21166659.post-15220158776805539322008-05-11T17:29:00.000-04:002008-05-11T17:29:00.000-04:00It is unfortunate that Larry Jones has to endure the criticism of the Eight Belles breakdown. He seems honest and ethical as a trainer, and wants to do the best by the horses in his charge, and seems very likeable, personable, and giving to the media as well.<BR/>As a lifelong racing fan, I think that medications and possibly whips should be done away with in America, and should be addressed by the owners and the industry at the top level, before racing attendance drops to a point where it can't be supported any longer.<BR/>The breeders as well need to slow down,re-evaluate methods and motives, and absorb a profit drop for the welfare of the horse, or else risk a longer term loss from changes prompted by animal rights groups. It may mean money or job loss in the short run, but I would hate to see forced changes come down that would cause track closures altogether. Racing has got to evolve, or risk being winnowed out.<BR/>In the meanwhile, Larry Jones and jockey Saez are being criticized by people who may or may not fully understand the racing process. Neither one could control the end result of the Derby, and we are still big fans of them and wish them all the best in the future.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com