A horse race is a competition in which horses are driven to sprint over obstacles at high speed. Prize money is awarded to those who finish first, second and third. It is a popular sport in many countries, and has been practiced since ancient times. It also features prominently in literature and art.

A group of horses, typically with one rider, is called a team. The rider is called a jockey. The jockey uses a whip to control the horse and guide it over the course of the race, including jumping any hurdles that may be present.

The horse race industry is full of cruelty, and a number of horses die during each race due to injuries and other problems. This is because the animals are not well-cared for and are pushed to run faster than they are naturally capable of. Horses are bred for their ability to sprint, but this is at the expense of their bone density and overall health. They are subjected to a cocktail of legal and illegal drugs designed to mask injuries and enhance performance. It is not uncommon for them to develop debilitating conditions such as bleedy lungs, gastric ulcers, and heart attacks.

It is common for horses to bleed from their lungs during exercise or when they are overheated, which is known as exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH). In order to prevent this, the horse may be given drugs such as Lasix. These medications are also used to keep the horse running at a higher rate, which can increase the likelihood of injuries.

There are a number of reasons to boycott the horse race industry, from the abusive training practices to the drug use and the slaughter of horses. Many people can find a better way to spend their money than betting on a race that causes so much suffering for the animals involved.

The most important thing you can do to help end the exploitation of horses is to stop supporting it financially. If you enjoy a flutter, try putting your money on football or another sport in which the participants are willing athletes, not mistreated animals.

The world of Thoroughbred racing is a glamorous spectacle, but behind the glittering veneer lies a dark side of drugs, gruesome breakdowns, and slaughter. It is not too late to make a change.