On June 13, 1975, the racing world witnessed one of its most tragic moments as Ruffian, a highly regarded filly, suffered a devastating right front ankle injury during a match race against Kentucky Derby winner Foolish Pleasure at the Belmont Stakes. The incident, which occurred just days after her victory in the Kentucky, left the racing community in shock and prompted immediate calls for reform within the sport. As the 50th anniversary of this event approaches, discussions about the safety of Thoroughbreds in competitive racing have resurfaced, highlighting the need for ongoing improvements to protect these animals. The race, which took place at Belmont Park in New York, is remembered not only for the catastrophic injury but also for the controversy it sparked regarding the treatment and safety of racehorses.
Ruffian, trained by Lucien Laurin and ridden by 19-year-old jockey Jorge Pasamonte, was a promising young horse with a strong racing pedigree. Her defeat by Foolish Pleasure in the Belmont Stakes was a significant moment in her racing career, but the subsequent match race where she fractured her right front ankle would prove to be her last. The severity of the injury led to her untimely death shortly after the incident, raising questions about the risks inherent in the sport and the welfare of the horses involved. In the decades since, the racing community has continued to grapple with the ethics of horse racing, seeking ways to balance the sport’s popularity with the well-being of the animals. The anniversary of this event serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by these majestic creatures and the ongoing efforts to ensure their safety in the world of competitive racing.