20/10/2024
Simple solution train off the farm on our 5/8 mile track and ship into Woodbine.
Ok H/J industry …we need to pay attention… the NFL is calling for artificial turf to be removed in all stadiums …WHY? Because injuries on AT are 65% higher and more catastrophic than seen on GRASS!
We put these artificial surfaces in because we are not willing to do the work to keep grass or in our case - drag daily or even more often - our natural sand rings. Vets, farriers and the equine insurance industry have all stated that these artificial footings are causing a rise in micro tears within the hoof capsule, side bone injuries, suspensory issues and shoulder/back and stifle injuries.
A horse’s hoof is meant to SCOOP dirt and fling it so it gives ….these new ring additives do not allow this to happen so the force of landing and cantering across these footings is then moved into the horse - ever notice there are NO divots? Or not as much dirt to clean off your horses belly?
Also … because we think these footings are superior we do not drag as often nor water enough - so the footing gets thick, gummy and gooey - you can feel the sludgy texture when you walk across the schooling area …
We have seen racetracks starting to study the increase in fractures and career ending catastrophic injuries in race horses on these same artificial products
We have seen increases in cases of bacterial infections such as scratches - does this fabric additive hold bacteria??
Did you know that if you sell your equine property your new fangled ring footing is considered hazardous waste? It cannot be disposed or removed without special handling as other equine properties disappear into development some have been sued by the new owner when it costs thousands to clear this material away
We have seen more tragic injuries from even simple falls because of horses tripping in the sludge or the impact of a fall not being as absorbed by a naturally giving material
Something we need to pay attention to - yet - we keep seeing more and more of it even though a lot of horseman and well qualified people are seeing huge issues …WHY?
We are fooling ourselves into thinking any footing can be low maintenance - footing is crucial and whether it’s protecting and seeding your grass field and rolling out divots or dragging your 131 screenings while keeping it watered properly … even the new footings require manure to be removed and must be watered and dragged properly to be cared for
This is just my opinion and I am sure many will disagree with me …but…. I think we should all pay attention
