Horse racing is an iconic international sport rooted in history, pageantry and traditions. Fans come for fancy hats, bet thrills or simply to admire the horses themselves; millions flock to watch horse races each year. Yet horse races don’t just provide nail-biting sports events; their proceeds contribute billions to our economy and create employment in rural communities across the globe.
Betting accounts for much of the revenue in horse racing. Betting on horses’ chances of success has long been part of the sport and continues to draw fans and generate revenue for racetracks, jockeys, and owners. Although gambling is part of horse racing experience, some have expressed concerns over excessive betting activity; therefore New York State has implemented regulations designed to protect players while upholding integrity in this form of entertainment.
The Kentucky Derby and Royal Ascot draw visitors from around the globe each year, drawn by their elegance and tradition as well as food and beverages like mint juleps and fine wines. Fashion is also an integral component at these events with ladies sporting extravagant hats or dresses which must meet strict dress code regulations; whilst their victory circle symbolizes success within racing culture.
Many of the issues in horse racing stem from its focus on maximising profits and its lack of oversight, leading to horses bred for speed over durability and an overly-rigid training regimen that puts them at risk of injury – often going untreated, forcing them to run despite pain. Furthermore, illegal drug use within racing is widespread and uncontrolled.
Injuryd racehorses don’t retire to pastures as promised – instead they are sold at auction and then slaughtered, often ending up as pet food and glue for dogs or sports equipment (ie shoeing studs) use.
Horse racing is an incredible, captivating sport enjoyed by many, but now is the time to prioritize animal welfare in horse racing. While racing will never be completely safe for horses, improvements such as zero-tolerance drug policies, turf tracks only for races, no whipping allowed and competitive racing only after their third birthday would go a long way toward improving racehorses’ welfare. You can help create brighter futures for these incredible creatures by supporting PETA’s efforts to rewrite horse racing rules in more humane ways.