One down, two to go, but who's the real hero?

Big Brown gave the performance in the Kentucky Derby that many people saw coming.
However, the act of courage that defines thoroughbred horse racing was put in by Eight Belles. This filly, who was cast into an unfair battle, was coming off her own undefeated season having easily won all four of her races this year. While she soundly defeated 18 of her male rivals last Saturday she was no match for the winner.
The problem is that thoroughbreds are bred to give their all with every performance. Although she was four lengths behind Big Brown with only 50 yards to the finish line she never gave up. Her effort cost her life.
I wrote last week about America needing a hero. When was the last time you saw somebody give it their all just to finish in second place? Enough of their all to possibly cost them their lives?
Big Brown may be a third of the way to the triple crown but my hero for these two weeks is Eight Belles. I think we could all learn a lesson from her fortitude.
Chris Pall
Blue Mountain Beach