Eight Belles — racing 10 years on

by JANE ALLIN The Kentucky Derby this Saturday marks the tenth anniversary of the catastrophic breakdown of Eight Belles. Racing with the boys, she crossed the wire 4 ¾ lengths behind Big Brown, finishing second - the first filly since 1999 to run in the Derby — only to collapse with two shattered ankles and…

Weighted boots not good for jumpers (UK)

Cross-posted from Horse and Hound A leading scientist has warned that using weighted boots on show jumpers and young horses could lead to long-term musculoskeletal problems. Research by Dr Jack Murphy of University College Dublin has highlighted the need to monitor welfare implications of weighted boots. The study, carried out last year, measured hindlimb elevation…