With I’ll Have Another’s historic victory in the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands on May 5 – and his follow-up success in the Preakness Stakes – the use of FLAIR® Equine Nasal Strips in racing has become an international topic of discussion as the world awaits the outcome of the Belmont Stakes on Saturday, June 9.
Use/non-use of equine Nasal Strips in racing
FLAIR Strips are allowed in New York State Standardbred Racing; the Strips are currently disallowed for Thoroughbred Racing in New York.
Flair LLC wishes to address recent questions and concerns regarding whether or not the use - or absence - of a FLAIR Strip in the 2012 Belmont Stakes, will affect the outcome of the final leg of the Triple Crown. The question has been raised - and rightly so - because while FLAIR Strips are allowed in New York State Standardbred Racing, the Strips are currently disallowed for Thoroughbred Racing in New York -- the only state to do so:
“I’ll Have Another has proven himself a great horse. The Strips make no more difference in the outcome of a race than do horseshoes, tongue-ties, figure 8 bridles or other equipment horsemen are permitted to use. The Strips, however, are designed to protect horses’ lungs so they stay healthier. FLAIR Strips are scientifically proven to reduce lung bleeding and can reduce bleeding as much as the drug Lasix®/Salix® when horses are running to fatigue.
We’re pleased to be among the equipment used to care for I’ll Have Another as well as all other equine athletes that use FLAIR Strips. We hope that when NYRA evaluates the use of nasal strips during racing it carefully considers the health and welfare of the horse and the science behind FLAIR Strips.” ~ James R Chiapetta DVM JD, President, Flair LLC
About FLAIR® Equine Nasal Strips: FLAIR Strips provide drug-free support and protection to the respiratory system of the hard-working equine athlete. Eight (8) clinical studies prove that FLAIR Strips: reduce airway resistance, reduce lung stress and bleeding, reduce fatigue, and shorten post-exercise recovery time.