Horse Serious

In a devastating turn of events, Hastings Racecourse in Vancouver witnessed another horse fatality, marking the second in just over a week. On Sunday, four-year-old gelding, Memorandum, sustained a severe injury that led a veterinarian to make the difficult decision to euthanize the horse, according to the president of the Horseman’s Benevolent and Protective Association of B.C. (HBPABC).

David Milburn, representing thoroughbred horse owners and trainers in the province, shared that the injury appeared to involve a hyperextension or dislocation of the sesamoid bones. Regrettably, it was an injury from which the horse could not recover, making euthanization the humane choice.

Milburn clarifies that the recent incident, which occurred on July 30, holds no correlation with the horse fatality during the Deighton Cup, other than the unfortunate coincidence of both events taking place at Hastings Racecourse.

The previous fatality involved a three-year-old horse named Lent Me Twenty, who tragically died in the paddock before the Vancouver version of the Kentucky Derby on July 22. It was described as a “freak accident,” where the rider-less horse reared up, lost its footing, and landed head first, resulting in fatal injuries to the top part of the skull.

The impact of these losses reaches far beyond the immediate horse racing community. Milburn expressed deep sorrow and emphasized the care taken to ensure the horses’ well-being before each race. Every horse is examined by a veterinarian before the race to confirm their fitness, and they are closely monitored while on the track.

Despite the precautions and experience of those handling the horses, sometimes tragic injuries occur in clusters, leading to heartbreaking consequences. The recent fatalities have left the entire horse racing community grieving.

Hastings Racecourse remains closed on Mondays, and inquiries about the incidents were not available for an immediate response from the director of operations. Additionally, CTV News reached out to Bill McNeill, the director of B.C.’s Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch, for further information on the latest horse’s death.

As this story develops, updates will be provided if responses are received from the relevant parties. The incidents serve as a somber reminder of the inherent risks in horse racing and the profound bond between humans and these magnificent animals.