A horse race is a close form of competition in which horses compete to win. It is a popular sport that has existed in the world since ancient times and has been practiced in many civilizations, including Ancient Greece, Rome, Babylon, Egypt, China, India, Persia, Arabia, and other parts of Africa and Europe. It has also been an important part of myth and legend, such as the contest between the steeds of Odin and the giant Hrungnir in Norse mythology.
Today, horse racing is a multi-billion dollar industry that has a long and proud history of both success and controversy. The industry is highly regulated, and it has made significant technological advancements in recent years. Some of these advances are in the area of safety, with MRI scanners and X-rays helping to identify minor or major health issues prior to a race; thermal imaging cameras help keep track of a horse’s body temperature during a race; and 3D printing allows jockeys to use molds to create casts and splints for injured horses.
Despite these advances, horse racing remains a dangerous sport for horses. The number of horses killed in training or while racing is on the rise. The death of Eight Belles in the Kentucky Derby and that of Medina Spirit in the Preakness Stakes sparked a call for reform in horse racing. But the changes that are needed will require a profound ideological reckoning at the macro business and industry level as well as in the hearts of horsewomen and men.
To truly act in the best interests of the horse would mean a complete restructuring of the entire business model, from breeding to aftercare to incorporating a more natural and equine friendly lifestyle for racehorses. Unfortunately, racing aficionados continue to blow off the concerns of animal rights activists and the larger public while failing miserably at protecting horses.
Horses are forced to run—often with whips in their hands—at speeds that can lead to injuries and even pulmonary hemorrhage. The most common of these is a torn muscle in the neck called the biceps tendon, but other injuries can include broken legs and lacerations from running into obstacles. These injuries are routinely overlooked in the name of profits and show no sign of stopping unless there is a fundamental shift in attitudes and business practices.
In 2020, Congress decided it was unwilling to see horses die just to entertain racing enthusiasts and mandated the enforcement of safety standards throughout the country. This effort is showing results, but much work remains to be done. This election cycle, with its mudslinging, insults, and attack ads, makes it easy to lose sight of the real issues at stake. But a horse race is more than just an electoral contest; it is a test of wills.