Changing the Races Isn’t the Answer

Reading how horse racing’s Triple Crown might be changed (June 24) as a result of the recent tragedies made me wonder where the so-called experts keep their brains. The three races in this series have existed for more than a century, with few tragedies attributed to them. Changing the formula of the races will not save the lives of horses such as Union City and Prairie Bayou. It is a knee-jerk reaction to a complex problem and a weak attempt to placate the thousands of fans who were upset by the tragedies.

Most of the blame rests on the breeders, who create these fragile speedsters. Those who sacrificed soundness in order to make faster horses are reaping what they have sown. And don’t forget the tracks, which make their racing surfaces lightning fast, while often making them harder as well (I won’t mention any names, Belmont).

MARY SHELTON

Riverside