By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

sad ending to fun night

Horse euthanized after incident during Wagons at Westerner race

Jul 25, 2021 | 9:14 AM

An unfortunate incident marred the end of the second night of this weekend’s Wagons at Westerner event.

On Saturday, during the final heat of the North American Pony Chuckwagon Championships, one of the equine athletes lost stride causing the wagon it was running to halt.

There was no time for reaction and it affected the driver behind as well, a statement from Westerner Park says.

“An onsite veterinarian immediately cared for the horses on the track and determined the extent of the injuries. Unfortunately, due to the injuries sustained, one of the horses was euthanized,” says Westerner Park.

“On close inspection of the animal and further review it was determined a muscular skeletal event occurred. All other animals were assessed post race by the track veterinarian and deemed to be in good health. Neither driver was injured in the event.

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The statement adds that, “Alberta Professional Chuckwagon & Chariot Association and Westerner Park are committed to the safety of the drivers and their animals, ensuring the utmost animal welfare standards are adhered to. Every possible precaution is taken to ensure the animal’s safety and wellbeing.”

Westerner Park also offered an update on an incident from Friday night, where it appeared a female outrider was bucked off her horse during a race.

She was taken to hospital as a precautionary measure, assessed, and released the same evening.