THE birthday of any normal human being is always special, and when that special birthday happens to fall on the same day the Diamond Mile is run, then it becomes extra special and even more exciting.

Such is the case this year for acting senior veterinarian at Jamaica Racing Commission, Dr Sophia Ramlal as her December 1 birthday coincides with the fourth staging of the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Commission-and Supreme Ventures-sponsored Diamond Mile at Caymanas Park.

Dr Ramlal is going to spend most of her birthday working as she usually does, checking the health and general condition of the horses before and after they race. The Diamond Mile Race Day is usually long and very taxing for all concerned. It requires the doctors on duty to be on top of their game, as they supervise through a gruelling series of 14 races.

Ramlal said that while the Diamond Mile programme is going to be testing, the veterinarians still have to ensure that horses are monitored efficiently so they can get back to their homes in good condition and happy.

“The Diamond Mile Race Day is our top Grade One racing event and it is a bit different in terms of demand. On the three previous Diamond Mile race days we had 14 races, whereas on the other race days the average is 10 races.

“So, our day starts early considering there is Lasix to be administered. Our vets will be here (Caymanas Park) from 6:30 in the morning. This essentially means that we have a 15-hour day on Diamond Mile day to work through.

“It is very demanding on our staff but it is also a day of much excitement, and even though it is our longest day we all get very in tune to really see these magnificently conditioned horses perform at peak levels.

“So, there is the excitement factor where everybody is curious to see how that particular race will turn out. Beyond that, it is the promotion and the interest that really brings into sharp focus what racing can be, the joys of racing and the high stakes of racing, because there are always emotions wrapped up in that special day and in that particular race,” Dr Ramlal shared.

She then made known that leading up to the Diamond Mile every horse entered for the event will be subjected to a veterinary examination 48 to 72 hours before the race, and then again prior to the actual running of the race.

“Because of the nature of this race, we want to ensure that we have a field of fit and proper candidates. Assuming that all goes well and we have 16 well and properly coordinated candidates on the day, the routine is much the same as it is on the other days.

“Horses that come up with issues, whether it is the Diamond Mile or in other races, will be dealt with accordingly. It is the same level of examination we will be providing to any other horse on any other race day,” Dr Ramlal assured.

Although not wanting to give out her young age, Dr Ramlal said: “It is a day that I enjoy, and because it is my birthday this year I know, I will enjoy the day even more,” Dr Ramlal said.

Happy birthday, Doc!