[BIGLOOK]

Thoroughbreds have developed problem through the selective process of breeding. Owners want Secretariats and Affirmeds as much for the purse as the stud fees. What they often overlook is a John Henry.

[skimask]

Secretiatiat made a FORTUNE for his owners in stud fees. When he died they did an autopsy on him and found his heart was twice the size of a regular thoroughbred. The Big Red Bay was one beautiful race horse.

[Amberdawn]

Speed kills, although even distance Euro horses break down. Colts are more likely to break down than fillies and mares-due to somewhat greater speeds, and that uncastrated males develop heavier musculature in their necks. More weight, more breakdowns. This is why jockeys have to be so light-it isn’t just an advantage to the owner’s horse, it’s to protect the animal.