chuckwagon drivers race at the Calgary Stampede in this July 12, 2010 file photo. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh
July 13, 2012 - 12:25 AM
CALGARY - A spokesman for the Calgary Stampede says three horses are "down" after a reported crash during the chuckwagon races.
Doug Fraser would not confirm media reports that horses belonging to driver Chad Harden were killed during Thursday night's Rangeland Derby.
He says such reports are speculation and the fate of the animals "is unclear at this point."
He says he is awaiting the arrival of veterinarians for more information.
The Stampede introduced changes last year aimed at making chuckwagon races safer for both horses and competitors.
The move came after six horses died in 2010 -- two of heart attacks.
All horses are now inspected by veterinarians when the animals arrive at the Stampede and before and after every race. There is also a mandatory rest day after every four days of racing.
The number of outriders that accompany each chuckwagon as it thunders around a dirt track was reduced to two from four to try to avoid congestion. Several riders have been seriously injured over the years.
Last year, the Stampede levied its largest fine ever against driver Cliff Cunningham for a chuckwagon race collision that led to the death of a horse.
The initial fine of $2,500 was upped to $12,500 after a commission reviewed video of the crash and spoke with the drivers involved.
Despite the Stampede's actions, animal welfare organizations have complained that the rodeo is simply cruelty masquerading as entertainment.
The Vancouver Humane Society, which has noted more than 50 chuckwagon horses have died since 1986, has frequently called for the suspension of the Stampede chuckwagon races.
News from © The Canadian Press, 2012