Horse Racing
Wednesday, September 15th, 2010 03:44 pm
Although you can't see it in the icon, I have just taken DJ over a small jump ... and am heading for another one.
However since I started riding, I have always avoided even the mention of racing.
I like the fact it exists - as it is part of our English heritage ... but seeing horses break legs completely finishes me. I was with Toni when Suiffy was fatally injured ... and lost Jaykub to a broken leg. Although both died in very simple accidents, the races does have a high mortality rate.
Anyway - last week I went to the last meeting of the Newton Abbot Races for 2010. I went on a coach trip, to "celebrate" a 50th Wedding Anniversary - sadly, he had died a couple of months ago. So, I decided to go, to support my friend, Kathy, as that is what friendship should be about (IMHO)
It rained - and when I say it rained ... I mean it! Some of my pictures are impossible as I hve a wet lens - however here are 17 pictures, posted in the order they were taken - so see the puddles get bigger, although the last race was actually run in the dry!
I enjoyed the day - glad I went ... and
"No horses were injured in the taking of these photos"
In the paddock - getting ready for the race -
Half way through the day - look at that ground -
Stabling -
Walking around the paddock -
Yes, I'm still partial to greys -
I do not bet ... but, I really should have done, shouldn't I? Look at his owner's initials!
The last winner of the day - over the last jump -
The last horse coming home - yes, #1 ... the others pulled up, as it was HEAVY going.