Big Brown, Eight Belles Spark Steroid Controversy

The steroid debate has lead to the Jockey Club to recommend a new steroid legislation. (AP Images)"]

It is said to help horses maintain a healthy appetite, and recover quickly from the daily wear and tear of racing. However, according to track veterinarian Larry Bramlage, the abuse by trainers of such drugs as Winstrol will inevitably lead to the banishment of steroids in horse racing.

Bramlage stated that in the coming weeks, the Jockey Club Thoroughbred Safety Committee will submit a public recommendation opposing the legal use of such steroids.

“I don’t think you’ll see it next year,” said Bramlage. “It’ll be illegal nationwide.”

Currently 28 of 38 states allow the use of steroids in horse racing. High profile incidents such as the euthanisation of Eight Belles have raised eyebrows across the nation. Although Eight Belles never tested positive for any steroid, many incidents have cropped up recently drawing attention to the fact that trainers may be using theses drugs to fulfill a more personal agenda.

“Horses are relatively delicate with a large muscle mass to begin with, and when the muscle mass is stressed, bones can break,” said Dr. David Wilson, professor of equine surgery at MU.

The benefits and drawbacks of steroid use in horse racing may never be fully understood. However momentarily, it seems that the Jockey Club Thoroughbred Safety Committee feels it is prepared to make that judgment, and submit a formal recommendation to ban the use of steroids in horse racing in the coming weeks.

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