Jun 19, 2008 8:33 pm US/Eastern
Congress Looks At Setting New Rules For Racing
WASHINGTON (WJZ) ―
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Gabriel Saez leads Eight Belles to the starting gate before the 134th running of the Kentucky Derby kicks off May 3, 2008.
by Jamie Squire/Getty Images
The sport of kings may find itself under tighter federal control following the death of Kentucky Derby horse Eight Belles last month.
Alex DeMetrick was on Capitol Hill as Congress opened the door to new regulations.
Thoroughbred horses are literally born to run. But last month when Kentucky horse Eight Belles shattered both front ankles and was euthanized on the track, questions started and continue now.
Those in the horse racing business were being asked to answer questions by a congressional committee looking into setting new rules for racing.
They are among the industry's most vocal proponents for change.
"Fewer horses are bred for durability, longevity and stamina. We push two-year-olds onto the track before many are ready to handle the rigors of racing," said Richard Shapiro, California Horse Racing Board.
The injury and eventual euthanasia of Barbaro captured hearts and headlines, but three horses a day die in racing nationwide.
Proponents of a racing commissioner, like baseball's or the NFL's, say two improvements would follow. They believe the issues of drugs and breeding horses only for speed would be resolved.
Critics believe new rules need to deepen the gene pool.
"We consecrate speed instead of the upper body. We look for Arnold Schwarzenegger's upper body, and then we look for Don Knox's legs and knees. We don't need all of the inbreeding we have," said horse owner Jess Jackson.
According to published reports, U.S. race tracks reported 5,000 horses have been destroyed since 2003.
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