Horse racing is an ancient sport with a long and rich history that has captured the imaginations of millions around the world. Its storied traditions, from the ceremonial pageantry of major events to the thrill of betting, attract casual fans and dedicated racegoers alike. But there is another side to the story of this iconic sport: the welfare of the horses. Despite recent reforms, many people remain concerned that horse racing is unnecessarily cruel to these intelligent animals.
The first step in preparing a horse for racing is conditioning. Like an athlete, the horse will start out with routine jogs and gallops in the wee hours of the morning before entering a training center. The trainer will then develop a “condition book” for the horse to follow over the course of weeks or months. The condition book lists races in which the horse is expected to compete and will be used as a guide for the trainer as he prepares his horse for the competition.
As the training progresses, the horses will begin to exercise at full gallop on a dirt track. During these workouts, the horses will learn to switch leads and channel their energy effectively. Racing in North America takes place in a counter-clockwise motion, so a runner will usually use his right lead on the straightaways and his left lead rounding the turns. This technique helps the horses tire less quickly, allowing them to run further and faster.
Racing events also serve as celebrations of national pride and heritage. Whether it is the Melbourne Cup, known as “the race that stops a nation,” or the Japan Cup, which showcases the country’s growing enthusiasm for the sport, these events bring together millions of spectators to share their love for the equine athlete. The excitement of the crowd and the spectacle of the athletes make for an unforgettable experience.
Sadly, for those who don’t finish a race or are injured, there is rarely any happy retirement for these sensitive creatures. Many are euthanized or end up in slaughterhouses, where they are turned into glue and dog food. For those who do make it to the finish line, however, there is a chance of a better life. Many horses find new careers as equestrians, and others go on to become breeding stock.
While criticisms of pre-election polling and horse race journalism have been around for decades, some scholars are now calling for journalists to shift the way they report on elections and news coverage. In a recent study, Johanna Dunaway and Regina G. Lawrence found that newspapers owned by large chains are more likely to frame election coverage as a horse race than those with independent owners. Their research suggests that the practice is harmful to voters and that we need to take a closer look at how we report on politics.