(Edited press release)
Veterinarians representing the American Association of Equine Practitioners’ “On Call” program will support a busy summer television schedule of live Thoroughbred racing.
“On Call” is designed to deliver accurate veterinary information to broadcast and print journalists through media-trained veterinarians who respond to crisis situations and answer questions about the health of the equine athlete.
Beginning June 30, “On Call” veterinarians will assist nine summer racing telecasts:
--June 30: Hollywood Gold Cup (gr. I) and American Handicap (gr. IIT) - Dr. Jeff Blea at Hollywood Park with assistance from Dr. Tony Verderosa at Belmont Park.
--July 7: American Oaks Invitational Presented by American Airlines (gr. I) and Triple Bend Handicap (gr. I) – Dr. Jeff Blea at Hollywood Park.
--July 15: Delaware Handicap (gr. II) and Barbaro Stakes (gr. III) – Dr. Kathleen Anderson at Delaware Park.
--July 21: San Diego Handicap (gr. II) – Dr. Rick Arthur at Del Mar.
--July 28: Whitney Handicap (gr. I), Go For Wand Handicap (gr. I), Alfred G. Vanderbilt Handicap (gr. II), and Diana Handicap (gr. IT) – Dr. Celeste Kunz at Saratoga.
--Aug. 4: Darley Test Stakes (gr. I) – Dr. Celeste Kunz at Saratoga; West Virginia Derby (gr. III) – Dr. Ron Genovese at Mountaineer Park.
--Aug. 11: Arlington Million (gr. IT), Beverly D. Stakes (gr. IT) and Secretariat Stakes (gr. IT) – Dr. Wayne McIlwraith at Arlington Park.
--Aug. 19: Pacific Classic (gr. I), Pat O’Brien Handicap (gr. II), and Del Mar Breeders' Cup Mile (gr. IIT) – Dr. Jeff Blea at Del Mar.
--Aug. 25: Travers Stakes (gr. I), Bernard Baruch Handicap (gr. IIT), and King’s Bishop (gr. I) – Dr. Celeste Kunz at Saratoga.
Since the founding of “On Call” in 1991, more than 30 AAEP members have volunteered their time and expertise to the program.
Offered during all live network racing, as well as arena events such as the American Quarter Horse Association World Championship Show, over 75 events are supported by an “On Call” veterinarian each year. The program is made possible in part by an annual donation from the Oak Tree Racing Association.