By BRIDGET SCOTT
TWO horses died in separate jumps trials at the Cranbourne Racing Track last week with the same jockey on the back of both horses.
Racing Victoria (RV) confirmed that two horses were “humanely euthanised” by an on-course vet last Wednesday morning as a result of injuries sustained in falls at the Cranbourne jumps trials.
The deaths have sparked outrage with animal welfare groups, including the RSPCA.
RSPCA spokesperson Sharon MacKenzie said they were “saddened and angered” to hear of the deaths of ‘Feel the Fame’ and ‘Verification’ last week.
“The deaths are two of many which could have been prevented if Racing Victoria had followed through on plans to ban jumps racing back in 2009,” she said.
The Dean Binaisse-trained Feel the Fame and the Brett Scott-trained Verification fell in separate trials with jockey Richard Eynon riding both horses during the time of their falls.
In a statement issued by RV it was said that Mr Eynon was assessed after both falls.
“On-course medical staff examined Mr Eynon following the first fall and passed him fit to continue riding,” a Racing Victoria spokesperson said.“Mr Eynon was again examined after the second fall by on-course medical staff who reported that he did not suffer any injuries.”
Despite this, RV Stewards have requested a medical certificate before he be permitted to ride again.
Both incidents have been referred to the Jumps Review Panel while a post-mortem will be conducted on both horses.
Ms Mackenzie said these two deaths brought the number of horses that have died in Victoria due to jumps racing to 60 since 2006.
“These deaths are a tragedy, least of all because they could have been avoided,” Ms Mackenzie said.
“It is deeply disappointing that year after year, we have seen horses maimed and killed for the benefit of a handful of trainers and spectators.”
The recent deaths have seen further calls for the sport to be banned.
“We call on the Victorian Government to move our state into the 21st century and ban jumps racing now,” Ms Mackenzie said.
“For a Government that has repeatedly stated its commitment to animal welfare, now is the time for actions to speak louder than words.”
