Another Racing Casualty

Today was the Breeders' Cup, held at Monmouth Park in Oceanport, N.J.

Curlin stole top honors, but another racing tragedy stole the show. Irish thoroughbred George Washington shattered his front right ankle near the end of the race. The injury was so severe that a screen was rolled out and the horse was euthanized on the spot. Another bitter reminder for those of us connected to the racing industry that our livelihoods rest on the delicate legs of horses too young to race.

Rest in peace, "gorgeous" George. For the scene behind the brown curtain...