Few things stir the emotions like a horse race. Whether they’re a chariot race or a modern-day thoroughbred race, these events have entranced spectators for centuries and remain a popular form of entertainment around the world. From the ceremonial pageantry to the betting, there’s something for everyone at a horse race. Some critics use a laundry list of issues with the sport to call for reform or an outright ban on racing. But as the sport has evolved, it’s been embracing new technology to improve track conditions and advance veterinary care for horses.
Just like an athlete would prepare for a major competition, a horse will train slowly in the lead-up to a race. A trainer will start the runner with routine jogs and gallops and then ask the equine to work or breeze, which means that they’ll run at a faster pace for a set distance. These workouts can indicate the runner’s level of fitness.
The pounding that horses experience during a race is one of the main reasons they’re vulnerable to injuries. The hard surface of the track and the constant running at high speeds put a lot of stress on their skeletal systems. As a result, horse racing has an inordinate number of breakdowns, a term that refers to horses that are injured and unable to finish a race. Those that do complete the race often suffer from lameness or have to be retired from the sport.
Despite the high risks, horse races are still very popular and bring in billions of dollars in revenue each year. But many people have concerns about the treatment of the animals involved. Critics point to a number of issues with the sport, from poor training to drug abuse. They argue that the money spent on a sport like horse racing could be better used to pay teachers what they deserve or to build affordable housing.
One of the biggest issues is that a large portion of the money in horse racing goes to owners and jockeys, not the horses. The sport is also notorious for using cocktail drugs on the equine athletes to mask pain and enhance performance. The drugs are not only illegal but can have serious side effects, including a type of lung disease called exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage. The disease can also lead to a life-threatening condition called colic, which can be fatal.
Regardless of the numerous criticisms, horse racing is continuing to evolve and adopt technology that makes it safer for horses and jockeys. Several advancements have been made, from thermal imaging cameras to monitor heat levels in horses post-race to 3D printing that can produce casts and splints for injured horses. Those improvements will continue to help the sport survive, even as it continues to embrace long-standing traditions that draw millions of fans worldwide. Whether you enjoy the glamour of the Derby or the excitement of the Japan Cup, there’s always something for everyone at a horse race.