Grubtrotters

Congratulations to Big Brown, who won the Kentucky Derby on Saturday. Condolences to runner-up Eight Belles, who was euthanized after breaking both front ankles. What, you might ask, does this have to do with food? Did you ever hear the story of 1986 Derby winner, Ferdinand?

Many Derby winners enjoy a lucrative retirement from racing by thriving in the breeding business. But Ferdinand was not a successful sire and lost value. He was sold a few times and apparently ended up in a slaughterhouse in Japan.

The thought of a thoroughbred champion being carved up for dinner is sickening to most Americans. But in many countries, horse is a common item on the menu.

The New York Times ran a story last summer about sushi chefs in Japan turning to horsemeat because of a tuna shortage.

This didn’t surprise me because I ate raw horse about 10 years ago during a business trip to Tokyo. It was at the beer garden next to the Yebisu Beer Museum. Horse was listed on the menu as a local favorite.

The locals knew what they were talking about. Think carpaccio.

A month after I returned from Tokyo, there was a California ballot initiative to ban the sale of horsemeat from human consumption. Having just consumed some tasty horse, I voted against it. But the measure passed 60-40.

The classic sitcom “All in the Family” had an episode subplot that featured Gloria cooking horse steaks for dinner. Edith’s reaction was priceless: “I keep thinking about Mr. Ed.”

Now every year when they run the Derby, I keep thinking about Ferdinand. — Victor.

Jenny adds: I just lost my appetite, thanks. Really looking forward to those angry letters from PETA.