HorseRacingBC Serving the British Columbia Horseracing community
Issue # 71
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EHV-1 Outbreak in Oregon
As of May 11, 2015, eight farms in Oregon have been placed under quarantine after an outbreak of equine herpes virus (1) more on pg 3 New Vesicular Stomatitis Requirements Due to the recent outbreaks of vesicular stomatitis in the Southwest, the Washington State Department of Agriculture issues new guidelines. more on pg 6 Canadian Thoroughbred Horse Society (BC Division) Our new address is: #7 – 5492 Production blvd. Surrey, bc v3s 8p5 Our new contact numbers are: Telephone: 604.534.0145 Fax: 604.534.Cths (2847) Looking For Old Photos Looking for old photos that show the history of BC racing. Photos will be reproduced and published and returned safely. No win photos please The Thoroughbred Ladies Club of BC The TLC of BC, whose charity work and scholarship program has benefited backstretch workers at Hastings Racecourse since 1973, meets the first Tuesday each month. If you would like to join them in their worthwhile efforts or help at the occasional function, please call: Linda Sentes 604-318-7949 Barb Williams at 604-542-8951.
HASTINGS RACING CLUB GIVES FANS A CHANCE TO EXPERIENCE OWNERSHIP
An exciting new concept is being introduced at Hastings Racecourse that will provide fans with the opportunity to share ownership of two racehorses in a low-cost, low-risk and fun-filled venture. To be known as ‘The Hastings Racing Club’, a limited number of memberships (200) are being offered for $250 with the shared ownership participants being provided with ‘an up close & personal’ experience of owning a race horse. Funds raised from selling The Hastings Racing Club memberships will be used to pay for the purchase of the horses, training fees and other expenses. Richard Yates, Secretary-Treasurer of the HBPA (Horsemen’s Benevolent & Protective Association) will represent the Club’s interest as manager of the project. Club memberships will include shared ownership in the two horses with plans to race at Hastings; reserved grandstand seating on Hastings Racing Club race days; accompanied paddock access; accompanied backstretch access to watch the designated Club horses in training; complimentary live racing programs; weekly updates and ownership information, plus monthly financial updates. The Hastings Racing Club will operate until the conclusion of the Hasting Racecourse 2015 season (unless it becomes prudent to cease operations at an earlier date) at which time the horses will be sold. Any monies remaining in the account, after the purchase price of the horses and all financial obligations are met, will be divided equally and returned to Club members (without interest). Membership fees, paid by cheque or cash, by contacting Richard Yates of the HBPA of BC at rayates@shaw.ca
Racing News and Opinions Issue # 71
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HASTINGS NEW RACING SECRETARY SAYS SHE’S UP FOR THE CHALLENGE Jockey Nichelle Milner was owned quarter paralyzed for seven months horses at Los when she suffered a broken Alamitos. “I back in 1989 and a broken neck decided on my first in 1992 following accidents visit to the barns during her riding career in the that I wanted to be U.S. a jockey,” she says. But she never allowed it to “I had a mission break her spirit. and when I put my Milner is the newest member mind to of the Hastings Racecourse accomplishing management team and says of something, there’s her appointment as Racing no stopping me.” Secretary: “This is a very After moving to coveted job and I take it Oregon as a 14 extremely seriously. It’s very year old, the five Nichelle Milner: “Horsemen Are Family” sacred to me.” foot two inch Milner comes to Hastings Milner was galloping horses first race on my first ride in from Portland Meadows, where upon graduating from high Portland.” she worked through the ranks school and in her typical feisty Then came the injuries, the as Paymaster, Entry Clerk and fashion, she decided to pursue agonizing departure from Assistant Racing Secretary and bigger and better opportunities. racing and her eventual return Quarter Horse Racing “I took my helmet and my to the front office at Portland Secretary over an 11 year whip and headed for Santa Meadows. period. Anita,” Milner says. “I literally Milner officially moved into “I was in the racing office talked myself onto the back her Racing Secretary office at when I got a phone call from side and within a year I had my Hastings during the first week Human Resources asking if I jockey license.” of May. She describes her knew anybody who might be Milner boldly told Hall of mindset and philosophy as interested in the Hastings Fame trainer D. Wayne Lukas being quite simple. “Horsemen posting, “ Milner says. “My that she would one day ride for are family,” she says. “Their immediate reaction was: ‘I him and when he said, “Oh, livelihoods are at stake and I sure do … me! I knew I was really?” that was all the get very upset when there are ready for the challenge.” inspiration she needed. horses sitting in the barns not Born in San Gabriel, “Within a couple of days I was getting a chance to run. I’ll do California, Milner was at Hollywood Park galloping whatever it takes to contribute introduced to racing as an horses for Mr. Lukas’ son Jeff,” to the success of Hastings eight-year-old when her parents she says. “In 1989 I won my Racecourse.”
Vesicular Stomatitis Requirements
Due to the recent outbreaks of vesicular stomatitis in the Southwest, the Washington State Department of Agriculture issued the following statement on May 8, 2015: “Any equine entering Washington State from Arizona, New Mexico or Utah are required to enter with a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection, written by an accredited veterinarian [and according to WAC 16-54-068 (2) (ii) and (2) (d] . . . and issued within 24 hours of shipment, an entry permit issued by the Washington State Veterinarian’s offices; and the temperature reading of each horse at time of inspection.”
To: Providers of Goods & Services for the Thoroughbred Industry.
Over the past few months the thoroughbred associations (BCTOBA, CTHS and the HBPA of BC) with the cooperation and assistance of Hastings General Manager Darren MacDonald have put in place a number of programs designed to reinvigorate racing at Hastings Racecourse and revitalize the breeding industry. The response to these initiatives has been very positive. To assist these programs towards maintaining momentum and gaining further traction, the Associations are asking all suppliers of goods and services to the industry to do everything in their power to maintain 2014 price levels for the coming 2015 season. Costs involved in racing horses at Hastings have risen well in excess of prices in general, and have served to some extent to discourage ownership and participation in the industry. It is vital that everyone makes their best effort to reverse this trend while a concerted effort is being made to maintain the current industry players and bring in new ones. For your efforts in helping send a positive message to everyone in our sport and to those thinking of joining us, the Thoroughbred Associations say “Thank You”. BCTOBA CTHS HBPA of BC
Vet Talk…
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Horse insurance basics by Hayley Kosolofski
Although many horses in Western Canada have high performance, breeding and emotional value in the eyes of their owners, few of the animals are covered under an equine insurance policy. Horse insurance can help owners with the cost of treating these horses. “We are often dealing with horses that are injured or sick, and owners are facing the choice of a treatment that may be very expensive,” says Dr. Steve Manning, an equine field service clinician and an associate professor at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM). “There is a lot of stress associated with not just the injury or illness but the financial implications of that [treatment].” Horse insurance initially began as protection against horse theft. Today, it has evolved into a service that offers horse owners a variety of choices from basic mortality policies to loss-ofuse packages for high-end athletes. With all these options, choosing a policy that is right for you and your horse can be challenging, says Manning. Types Of Horse Insurance Mortality “If people insure their horses, by and large they are purchasing mortality insurance,” says Manning. Two types of policies are typically offered: full mortality and theft, or limited mortality. Full mortality and theft is comparable to a term life insurance policy. It insures against financial losses from death for any reason and proven theft. Limited mortality will cover the death of a horse due to specified perils such as fire, natural disasters or vehicle accidents. Surgical Surgical policies are purchased as an addition to mortality policies. “It insures you against any financial losses incurred as a result of any surgery that has to be performed by a licensed veterinarian to save an animal’s life, to better its health or to treat an injury,” says Manning. Often, it will also cover medical costs associated with the surgery.
Horse Population at Emerald Downs Passed 1,000 mark The horse population at Emerald Downs has surpassed 1,000 for the first time since 2011. In 2014, the horse population peaked at 818. "We are starting to see the results of having higher purses and more horses on the grounds,” said Emerald Downs President Phil Ziegler. "The field sizes are up which leads to more exciting races for our fans." Earlier this year the track announced a 20% increase in purses for the 2015 season and a package of horseman's incentives including a popular Ship and Run bonus.
Major Medical Major medical insurance, like surgical insurance, can be added to a mortality policy. It will provide coverage for your horse’s medical needs such as hospitalization and long-term medical therapy. Loss of Use Loss of use policies are the equine equivalent of disability insurance for people. “High end performance horses, whose financial worth is in the performance of the task they do, can be insured for that activity,” says Manning. If the horse suffers an injury or illness that ends his career, but not his life, the policy will pay a percentage of his declared value. Stallion Infertility Valuable breeding stallions can be insured against acquired infertility. Some conditions that Manning commonly sees include breeding injuries, tumours of the penis and testicular degeneration. Before obtaining a stallion infertility policy, the horse breeder must prove that the stallion is fertile. Transport Most mortality insurance policies will cover ground transport to a certain extent. However, they will not cover international travel or air travel. “So if your horse is travelling internationally by air, or sometimes even by ground, you may need to look at purchasing short-term trip insurance to cover the horses on those journeys,” says Manning. Liability Insurance “Anybody who owns a horse at the very least should probably carry liability insurance,” recommends Manning. Liability insurance will protect you if someone is injured or property is damaged by your horse. Liability insurance is often covered in a group policy offered to members through organizations such as Horse Council of British Columbia, Alberta Equestrian Federation and Saskatchewan Horse Federation. Specific insurance policies for coaches, stable owners, clubs, outfitters and therapeutic services are available and are tailored to the needs of those
Issue # 71
activities. The Insurance Exam Before obtaining a policy, insurance providers often require a veterinary exam. “What we are asked to do is a general physical exam — so we take the horse’s temperature, pulse and respiration, we listen to the heart and we listen to the lungs. We make sure that the horse is free from evidence of infectious disease or any skin disease, that it’s generally healthy and in good body condition,” says Manning. In addition, Manning says the exam often requires the veterinarian to look at the horse’s eyes and to perform a brief lameness exam. Insurance providers may also request information about the horse’s past medical and surgical history. Choosing A Policy: Final Tips —Understand your needs and reasons for obtaining an insurance policy for your horse. Think about your horse’s activity, risks and current health status. —Compare price, coverage and exclusions between insurance providers. —Choose a policy that fits your lifestyle. For example, many limited mortality policies allow you to add additional specific perils such as an attack by a dog or a wild animal. —Know exactly what coverage is provided before you purchase a policy. Ask your insurance provider to explain any terms or conditions that are unclear. —Ensure you understand your responsibility in the event that your horse becomes ill or injured. Be familiar with the guidelines for emergency situations and end-of-life decisions. Note: Neither Dr. Steve Manning nor the WCVM has any association with an insurance company or the marketing of insurance policies. Hayley Kosolofski is a fourth-year veterinary student from Sherwood Park, Alta., who is the undergraduate student representative for the WCVM’s Equine Health Research Fund.
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Issue # 71
Battle of the Horse Nations at Emerald Downs The 2015 Indian Relay Race Season will be held June 12-14 at Emerald Downs, with 15 of the world’s best teams traveling to Washington to honor the Muckleshoot Tribe and their important acquisition of the racetrack.
Champion Indian horse relay teams from the top horse nations around the country are converging on Emerald Downs for the “Battle of the Horse Nations Indian Relay. Teams representing the top horse nations Lakota, Northern Cheyenne, Crow, Blackfeet, Colville, Shoshone-Bannock and Umatilla - will participate. “This is a historic moment for the Indian horse nations,” said Calvin Ghost Bear of the Oglala Lakota Nation and owner of the World Champion Lakota Warpath team. “It is very important that our people and our children do not lose the important place the horse has in our history and our culture; we come to honor them and our ancestors.” Indian relay racing is America’s first extreme sport, as well as the nation’s oldest sport - 500 years old by many accounts. Teams dressed in traditional regalia will ride Thoroughbred racehorses around the
mile racetrack, exchanging horses every halfmile. Warriors leap from one galloping horse to another creating organized mayhem. Fans are screaming and dirt is flying everywhere from the powerful and traditionally painted war horses! The top three teams from each of the main horse nations have been invited by Emerald Downs, the Muckleshoot Tribe and the Professional Indian Horse Racing Association (PIHRA) to compete in this historic event. “This may be the best Indian relay races ever run,” commented Gary Fellers, one of the PIHRA directors. “These are 15 of the top teams in the world and they have never really run as an elite group against each other before. This is historic. The Emerald Downs fans are in for a real treat.” Normally Indian relay teams run head to head against all comers. For the Battle of the Horse Nations there is a little twist. At Emerald Downs, in addition to prizes for individual teams, there will be awards for each nation with the best aggregate results of their own three teams.
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Issue # 71
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Issue # 71
Jonathan Sheppard joins WHOA in Support of US Federal Legislation to Ban Race Day Medication
Since 2012 the American organization WHOA (Water Hay Oats Alliance) has been lobbying the US government for uniform legislation regarding drug policies across all states and racing jurisdictions. I believe that their arguments are valid and to support them and the ban on lasix and other race day medication HorseRacingBC will publish, each month, the letters and comments from their members; Prominent, veterenarians, trainers, owners, and breeders in the hope of supporting such legislation in Canada. After much thought and not a little procrastination, I have finally decided that it is important for me to become a member of WHOA and to show my support for its mission. I was at first reluctant to join because I didn’t want to give the impression to my peers that I considered myself superior or in some way more honest than them. I was also worried that inviting federal intervention could have adverse consequences by taking over the control of our sport by people who probably had little knowledge or understanding of it. I have now begun to realize that we have reached a point where we really no longer have a choice. We need more sophisticated drug testing, we need stiffer penalties for major offenses, and we need uniform testing and medication policies. As a trainer who races in many different states, it has become almost impossible to keep up with all the permissible dosages and withdrawal times. Although a lot of good work has been done to simplify these rules, I believe that the time has come for [US] horse racing to follow the lead of human athletes and to appoint an independent body to police our sport. There is just too much money and too much self interest at stake to expect a level playing field if this is done internally. Hopefully, if WHOA achieves it objectives, it will show the world in general and our own betting public in particular that American racing is serious about cleaning up our sport and presenting a better image. This will not only increase the value of our bloodstock and increase our revenues from wagering but also restore our position as a leader on the international racing stage. Jonathan Sheppard Hall of Fame Trainer
EHV-1 Outbreak in Oregon
As of May 11, 2015, eight farms in Oregon have been placed under quarantine after an outbreak of equine herpes virus (1) EHV-1, which is also referred to as rhinopneumonitis virus. Oregon State Veterinarian Dr. Brad LeaMaster has recommended that any horse that attended the
Oregon High School Equestrian Team Willamette gathering on April 16-18 be imposed in a selfquarantine at their farm or stable for a minimum of 28 days, as well as any equines they may have been in contact with since the April event. So far, seven horses have demonstrated neurological signs of the disease (which symptoms include
decreased coordination, hind limb weakness, lethargy, nasal discharge and/or leaning to maintain balance) and several others have developed fevers. The disease can be fatal and can also lead to abortion and respiratory disease. EHV-1 is spread by horse-to-horse contact or through contaminated
equipment, clothes or hands. According to a letter sent out from Washington State Veterinarian Dr. Joe Baker, “. . . no Washington horses were at the event. However, three stablemates of an affected horse attended a trail riding clinic at the Oregon Horse Center on April 25-26, 2015. There were a total of 16 participants from Washington State
at the trail riding event.” He further added, “It is thought that the risk to participating horses at the trail riding clinic is low.” It was also stated that horses which come into Washington from Oregon “on a sixmonth passport or a 30-day health certificate will need to include a statement which says that ‘the animals are free from
clinical signs or known exposure to any infectious or communicable disease.’” Horses will also need an entry permit that has been issued from the Washington State Veterinarian’s office. They also recommend that each horse’s temperature be taken at time of inspection.
ACCELLERATE THE HEALING OF BUCKED SHINS Do not poultice, sweat or wrap the leg with anything if you want to increase the healing process. Keep the leg open to air. Icing is great for all leg lameness issues. Poulticing the shin will only make the problem much worse. The inflammation must be removed. The main cause of bucked shins are rear end pain due to over training or training to fast. We feel that the Hocks and Whirlbone come into play with these young horses. TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS: Place Leg Saver (Martindale) harness and girth strap on horse. Run one set of 7 ft. lead to the damaged shin using one 3 inch wrap to hold the wire in place above the knee allowing the two pins to hang in the center of the bucked shin. I usually wrap the wire around the Girth strap to keep it out of the way. Place pin into the power pack. Rub DMSO gel or electro gel into the damaged shin. You can use either. Spread electro gel onto each electro pads before inserting the pins into them and tape them to the shin so when you wrap the leg with the polo the pads will be kept in place tight on the shin. Then run a 7 ft. lead with a 3 ft. extension to each red and black pin so they will reach the kidney Ting Points on the rear of the pastern. Tape the wire in place high on the rear end (sacroiliac). Insert the pins into the pads on the Pastern wraps and place the pastern wraps onto the kidney Ting Point in the middle of the rear of the pastern. View the instructional manual for location of the KIDNEY TING POINTS. This will accelerate the healing process dramatically. You must keep exercising the horse during the treatment process. Galloping, jogging or walking are necessary for the shin to become pain free. You must have all of the inflammation removed from the shin before it is completely healed. Do not lay the horse up for the year as there will be a good chance that you will be treating bucked shins next year. You can contact us via phone or email for help with this treatment. For further information and a demonsration contact:
GARY DESROCHES www.equi-stimlegsaver.com legsaver@gmail.com 1-800-595-7408 toll free 1-604-215-3622
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New App from Equine Guelph Empowers Horse Owners
Tracking vital health data in real-time on your smart phone or tablet is a snap with Equine Guelph’s new Horse Health Tracker App. Whether you have one horse or a whole herd, this app empowers horse owners to give the ultimate in care to their animals. Assess your horse’s vital health data, body condition score and body weight with a few simple clicks and easily share this information with your healthcare team. Upgrades allow you to keep track of information such as heart rate, temperature and respiration for up to 50 horses. Special graphs plot this vital data over a 13-month period and instructional videos, also included in the upgrade to show you how to properly perform the assessments. The app accommodates multiple checks per day, making it the perfect tool to monitor sick horses as well as healthy horses. Its built-in e-mail capability allows you to share data with your veterinarian. “The ability to share pertinent information with your veterinarian is a wonderful feature,” said equine practitioner, Dr. Laura Frost. Horse Health Tracker makes it easy for the horse owner to systematically collect vital health data and provide this information in real-time to a veterinarian. THE STRANGEST RACETRACK A housing development near Fort Rod Hill, just outside Victoria, sits on the site of what was B.C.’s most unique thoroughbred racing plant---the Colwood Racetrack. Constructed in 1924 , the one-mile oval ran downhill on the backstretch and uphill on the homestretch.In the infield was a large mound of rock that obscured a portion of the backstretch from the view of spectators in the grandstand. Strange things often happened when the horses disappeared behind the mound. Occasionally, the horse in the lead would reappear in last place. The track was built, with his father’s money by an immigrant son of a titled Englishman, Lord Coventry. It survived until the outbreak of the Second World War in 1939. Jim Coleman, the Boswell of Canadian horse racing, remembers that a farmer raised turkeys in the infield. Frequently, they ran onto the track, startling the horses and jockeys. He tells the story of a jockey winning at Colwood with a turkey perched on his shoulder, then having his horse disqualified for carrying more than five pounds of overweight. He added, however, that he doesn’t think it really happened.
Issue # 71
The Good Ol’ Days
Furture Standardbred Star Robert Garlaneau sends this photo of his new born filly foaled April 17 in langley. She is by Wink N Atcha out of Milbanks Piper
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Issue # 71
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