Saez Is Innocent (PETA Rebuke)
May 5, 2008
What happened on the first Saturday in May could’ve been prevented. The filly, Eight Belles, could have raced in the Kentucky Oaks with her stable mate and eventual winner, Proud Spell. Instead she pushed herself to the brink and finished second in the Kentucky Derby, breaking both of her ankles as she was ridden out by jockey Gabriel Saez. It was extremely saddening to see the filly lying there on the track, and she had to be euthanized to prevent further suffering. Nothing could’ve been done to save her life. Now PETA is trying to pin the death on Saez. They want his riding license revoked, and his earnings for the race to be fined.
I have a serious problem with them blaming Saez. Not only did he ride a beautiful race, but he helped her to outperform her ability. She probably shouldn’t have ran second, and he is one of the reasons she did. I’m not taking anything away from Eight Belles because she gave her all and showed a ton of heart, but Saez was a large factor. To suggest that he purposely caused the breakdown, or ignored the fact that Eight Belles was in distress is outrageous.
I can’t speak for Saez, but I’m sure he is heart broken over this. He is probably questioning himself, but he didn’t do anything wrong. Catastrophic breakdowns happen in this sport. It’s the sad truth, and I wish it weren’t so, but it is. This type of breakdown only happens to 1 or 2 horses in 1000, but it HAPPENS. I don’t believe Saez could’ve prevented this from happening, or that he had anything to do with causing it. Eight Belles truly died with her boots on, doing what she did best. Gabriel Saez, if you are reading this congratulations on riding a great race and proving that fillies can beat colts once again.
PETA and other animal activists extremists, and yes PETA are extremists disgust me. To blame someone who loved that filly for her death is despicable. PETA will jump on any animal controversy, completely disregard the facts and point the finger. I have 0 respect for this organization and find them extremely offensive. Shame on you PETA. You have no right to get involved. You have no right to blame Saez!
