Whiteley Jr., Vasquez sue Walt Disney over Ruffian

[blackthroatedwind]

I wonder what your hidden agenda is here Concern. You seem to be coming on pretty strong for just a casual observer.

No hidden agenda. I'm a huge Ruffian fan and, like many, was tremendously affected by her tragic death. I think this movie is terrible for racing and, from reading other message boards, many folks agree with me. I am glad that this lawsuit is bringing attention to the fraud and exploitation that this movie is.

[blackthroatedwind]

Originally Posted by Concern

No hidden agenda. I'm a huge Ruffian fan and, like many, was tremendously affected by her tragic death. I think this movie is terrible for racing and, from reading other message boards, many folks agree with me. I am glad that this lawsuit is bringing attention to the fraud and exploitation that this movie is.

Have you seen the movie?

No. I have talked to five folks who have and was told by all that the breakdown scene is very, very graphic. Racing cannot possibly benefit from this.

[blackthroatedwind]

Originally Posted by Concern

No. I have talked to five folks who have and was told by all that the breakdown scene is very, very graphic. Racing cannot possibly benefit from this.

So, you haven't seen the movie, but are vilifying everyone involved with the project. Seems pretty unfair to me.

On the rest of your comments.....sorry....but I think you're completely wrong. People, like yourself, with preconceived notions will believe what they believe before viewing it. However, like it or not, this movie will be on a major network, and thus will expose racing to a large audience ( something we rarely get ). Yes, some will not like it, but some will and at least the possibility exists that some of these people will be more interested in racing after viewing it.

I loved Ruffian as well, and saw her win the Spinaway in person, and it had a great affect on me. She was the first horse I became fascinated with in a now virtual lifetime immersed in racing. I don't have great expectations for the movie but I also don't see it as a disservice to the game at all.

I respect your right to your opinion. Many others share mine. I also think the producers are exploiting Barbaro by tying his tragedy into this film. How convenient for them that his breakdown occurred and could be "inserted" into their production. I did read a portion of Nack's self-serving Ruffian book and now wonder how much of that was true and how much was manipulated as a companion to the movie.

[blackthroatedwind]

Originally Posted by Concern

I respect your right to your opinion. Many others share mine. I also think the producers are exploiting Barbaro by tying his tragedy into this film. How convenient for them that his breakdown occurred and could be "inserted" into their production. I did read a portion of Nack's self-serving Ruffian book and now wonder how much of that was true and how much was manipulated as a companion to the movie.

I'm glad to hear that unlike other things you criticize, you actually bothered to read Nack's book.......oh I'm sorry....." a portion " of Nack's book.

[Danzig]

Originally Posted by Concern

I respect your right to your opinion. Many others share mine. I also think the producers are exploiting Barbaro by tying his tragedy into this film. How convenient for them that his breakdown occurred and could be "inserted" into their production. I did read a portion of Nack's self-serving Ruffian book and now wonder how much of that was true and how much was manipulated as a companion to the movie.

well, that's a hell of a way to look at it.

this movie from what i understand was far along in production before barbaro suffered his injury. a sad coincidence, but i hope not one that anyone rejoiced in, regardless of the money aspect.

[blackthroatedwind]

Originally Posted by Cardus

The possibility that people will watch this movie and, although this is one horse, might think that this happens enough to repel them from attending races is real.

Just as the very real possibility exists that some will watch and see some of the great things about racing and be encouraged to attend.

[the_fat_man]

Good to see some of the old timers in the news.

Vasquez was always one of the more 'outspoken' jocks

remember one time someone was criticizing his riding in the paddock area
and Jacinto just looks at him and says "YEAH, but I got alot of
money".

Vasquez must be 60 or so, which makes Whiteley ????

[Riot]

I do not buy into the thought that the Ruffian movie, and the two movies out about Barbaro, should rather be "hands off" subjects, simply because terrible tragedy was involved.

Don't speak of it, and it doesn't exist? That's the ultimate betrayal to the horses involved, no? To any horse that gets injured in this sport.

Barbaro drew thousands of casual fans into participation, at the very least via showcasing how veterinary medicine can and does care for these elite athletes. That shocked and educated alot of people who had no idea (including some quite familiar with racing).

To additionally humanize the participants surrounding the lives of these great animals, and thus opening up the heart of racing to those outside it, can only help the sport.