Who Dunnit?

I'm not sure who, but according to the New York Times today, it was the vet, in the library, with a candlestick filled with marked up Adequan.

Their in-depth look at some vet care on the backstretch's of America and Canada is pretty good, in my opinion.

One of the big expenses for horse owners has been vet work, and I believe those numbers have risen over the last 20+ years. At least they have for me.

There are some of usual criticisms about the story from some racing insiders. Trainer Charles Simon last night on twitter said,

"They continue to sensationalize things. While understanding that some guys do excessive work many don't."

I would think that's true. I know, and have had, plenty of trainers who do not get excessive vet work done.

But was the story about those people? No, I don't think so.

Like a Tour De France story about drugs, riders, and the doctors, you are not going to see an expose talk about the dude who is prescribing vitamins. Plus, the little rider from where ever, with the ivory clean doctor is likely not winning races.

Vet work, supplements, pre-race (and some things on the dark side) tend to help win races. Winning races is a big part of the sport, and it's a cycle. A high percentage trainer with huge vet bills gets press, people see that press and give them more and more horses. Soon you have super-stables, and the little guy gets crowded out. To compete, the little guy better find a new vet, or he's in trouble. I think that was the point of the story, and they made it well.

Regardless, it's a story I think you'll find interesting, and it's worth a read.

Enjoy your Saturday everyone.