Time to Change the Structure, by Fred Pope

re: Time to Change the Structure, by Fred Pope

200 lb. Jockey — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 23:06:13 GMT

Great article. I just bought into my first syndicate and own the nose of a 2 year old colt stabled at Calder. Of course he is given lasix, 99% of the 2 year old's there are. I don't know that he needs it at all, but when every other horse is running with it, how can his trainer NOT give it to him? Talk about a catch22. I agree that race day medications need to be banned, but I don't want to see my horse have a disadvantage by not using Lasix when the entire field in his next race will be using it. The sport really needs a lot of help in many areas and you bring up some great points. Unity in leadership should be a top priority in racing. I love this sport more than anything, but it has some serious work to do if it intends to survive. I would certainly support any efforts you make but I have two questions. How can you enact these changes? Would you yourself be willing to act as a commissioner if the opportunity arose?

re: Time to Change the Structure, by Fred Pope

fb0252 — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 22:18:21 GMT

It's called the NASCAR-IZATION of horse racing.

re: Time to Change the Structure, by Fred Pope

Convene — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 21:58:11 GMT

Well said, Mr. Pope - as usual! I'm old enough to remember the bad(?) old days before drugs and to remember how often and how long our horses raced, sound as the proverbial bells. When meds were legalized, most of us shook our heads and said, "Now we watch the disasters begin!" And lo - as they say - it has come to pass ... And the horses and the fans and the whole sport have paid a terrible price.

re: Time to Change the Structure, by Fred Pope

footy231 — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:56 GMT

simple ban race day drugs fk salix rest of the world can do it why cant america