“Found it [horse] with an open [through the skin]Comminuted fracture of the tibia – several missing pieces.” – Horseracing Wrongs

Through a FOIA request to the Virginia Racing Commission, I confirmed the following killings at that state’s tracks last year.

Black Empire, August 23, Colonial R
“Multiple fractures [I counted at least six].” Also: “There are also subchondral bruises/lesions that affect the metacarpals. These are common findings and are usually associated with repetitive trauma from intense exercise.” “Repeated trauma due to intensive training” – Black Empire was only three years old.

Oishi, September 1, Colonial R
‘Complete, reduced [several pieces]displaced fracture; trauma to the surrounding soft tissues: digital flexor tendon, tendon sheath, suspensory ligament and intersesamoid ligament [as] This is evidenced by tearing, bleeding, edema and significant bruising.” Oishi was four years old.

Freaky Flash, September 12, Colonial S
“Found it [horse] with an open [through the skin]Comminuted fracture of the tibia – several missing pieces.” They added: “The complete fracture is likely related to tibial weakness associated with pre-existing stress fractures.” Freaky was six years old.

Army Captain Hanover, October 5, Shenandoah R
“Complete, obviously comminuted, moderately displaced biarticular fracture of the P1 – fracture resulted in multiple fragmentation.” They added: “The previously placed transverse screw P1 was not bent or broken.” Army captain was nine years old.

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