Back in May, 2020 I wrote an Op/Ed piece regarding the Jockey Club’s attempt at instituting a 140-mare cap. According to the Jockey Club, the rule was proposed to “promote diversity of the Thoroughbred gene pool and protect the long-term health of the breed.” Three years later we are still struggling with the fragility of our equine athletes. The recent fatal (and public) breakdowns of Maple Leaf Mel and New York Thunder shone a bright light onto this problem.
We interviewed Mark Casse on the most recent episode of Rail Talk (#9 for those of you scoring at home). During that session, Mark emphasized that while racetracks need to be monitored and addressed (especially when it rains), the shrinking gene pool was of paramount concern as well. Like most breeds, problems are sometimes magnified thru selective matings. For example, pure bred retrievers have a higher likelihood for hip dysplasia. Persian cats are also commonly born with polycystic kidney disease (PKD), a genetic condition where cysts grow on the kidney. Mother nature has a natural thirst for outcrosses – in the wild, new genetic combinations that work actually strengthen the breed and the ones that fail, permanently end the “experiment”. Since humans control the matings for thoroughbreds, we may actually be reinforcing a genetic weakness if it promotes speed and early development in those foals. Think about all the stallions and mares that are whisked away from the racetrack because their commercial appeal offers greater immediate value.
I previously proposed suggestions as to how to expand the gene pool and simultaneously promote soundness in horses. Some of those included: a) prohibiting the registration of foals who are inbred within the first three generations or possessing a certain percentage of common bloodlines; b) establishing a formal and legal definition of the term “outcross” and brand The Jockey Club papers for those resulting foals. Tracks could then offer restricted races to outcrosses only, which would enable those foals an easier way to earn more money, black-type, etc., elongate racing careers and provide better opportunities for stakes participation; and c) offering outcrosses free nomination to the Breeders’ Cup or the Triple Crown. (I realize that the latter two suggestions would call for the involvement of third parties, but it would potentially increase the participation in those top races, which would naturally enhance the likelihood of an outcross being introduced to the gene pool). Like state-bred foals, outcrosses would then be eligible for additional benefits, which would subsequently enhance their pre-race sales value.
What are your thoughts on the above? Any other suggestions to improve the gene pool in our horses?