Hi Mall,

There is definitely something ironic about using a "snail" to help a horse run faster.

I guess using the words "bad guys" might have been a little harsh but the fact that it is not explicitly banned by the rules is not the issue. Until recently, EPO was not banned. Does that mean it was OK before the rule change and not now? You know the rules better than I but I would guess that "snail venom" is probably not illegal at this time. Does that make it OK?

In my view, use of technology or drugs to artificially alter equine physiology or chemistry in a performance enhancing way is bad for the athletes (both equine and human), the fans and the sport. I know there may be some gray areas with regards to nutrition and training methods given that they are all in essence intended to alter equine physiology and chemistry. However, I have to believe that there is a definable difference between "snail venom" or "EPO" and hay and oats and between "hyperbaric oxygen therapy" and a morning workout.

Maybe it is inevitable that we are slowly moving toward some equine version of NASCAR. I hope not...

Chris