Wild On Ice was the first of seven thoroughbreds to die at the track leading up to the marquee race on May 6, including two on the Derby undercard. That grief has been felt in particular with a recent spate of horse deaths at the home of the Kentucky Derby. It makes their stunning deaths all the more painful to grasp.

In many respects, the majestic animals are like family to their handlers and owners. Trainer Joe Lejzerowicz said he frequently flips through his phone for photos of Freezing Point, the horse he brags about like parents do about their children. Yet every death draws fresh criticism that the sport is far too cruel to continue and it sends every stable into mourning all over again, often out of sight. The numbers suggest that horse racing is the safest it has been for the animals since at least 2009. For the trainer, myself and his family, it’s very devastating.” “It kind of jerks the rug out from under you. “I felt that if heaven felt like this, I can’t wait to get to heaven, you know?” the Texas owner and trainer said of his colt, who was euthanized after a pre-Derby workout at Churchill Downs on April 27.

Roomba racing