In the days leading up to the Kentucky Derby, tragedy struck the racing world as seven horses lost their lives. Among those that died, Wild on Ice, Take Charge Briana, Code of Kings, Chasing Artie, Parents Pride, Chloe's Dream, and Freezing Point — all young horses at just three years old — met untimely deaths due to injuries sustained during training and racing at Churchill Downs, Vox reports.

These heartbreaking incidents underscore the inherent dangers and risks faced by racing horses, shedding light on a sport that too often overlooks their welfare and prioritizes profit over their well-being.

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Racehorses face inherent dangers and risks during training and racing.

The High Cost of Racing: Physical and Emotional Toll

Fragile Legs and Fatal Injuries

One of the most prevalent threats to racing horses is the fragility of their legs. The intense physical demands of racing, coupled with the tremendous strain on their limbs, make them susceptible to catastrophic injuries, The Guardian reports. Horses are powerful animals, but their legs are delicate structures that can be easily damaged during high-speed gallops and sudden movements. The stress placed on their bones, tendons, and ligaments significantly increases the risk of fractures, sprains, and other debilitating injuries that can prove fatal.

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Fragile legs make racehorses susceptible to catastrophic injuries.

The Brutal Reality of Track Accidents

Unfortunately, track accidents are an all-too-common occurrence in the racing industry. Horses, driven by competitive pressure and the urging of jockeys, push their limits to achieve victory. Tragically, this pursuit often leads to devastating consequences. The case of Code of Kings, who suffered a fatal neck injury after flipping three times, is a harrowing reminder of the dangers faced by these majestic creatures. Such accidents not only end lives abruptly but also leave lasting emotional scars on the trainers, jockeys, and all those involved in the horse racing community.

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The intense physical demands of racing put tremendous strain on racehorses' limbs.

Unveiling the Dark Side: Inhumane Practices and Drug Abuse

The Hidden Epidemic: Drugging and Abuse

Behind the glitz and glamour of the racing industry lies a dark underbelly characterized by inhumane practices and drug abuse. Despite touted reforms implemented in 2019, investigations reveal that horses are still subject to maltreatment and preventable deaths, The Atlantic reports.

Shockingly, a Lady Freethinker investigation uncovered that a staggering 80% of horse deaths occur in horses between the ages of 2 and 4—innocent young lives lost due to the demands and pressures of the sport. Horses are often drugged to mask injuries or enhance performance, leading to further health complications and risks on the track.

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Catastrophic injuries, such as fractures and sprains, can prove fatal for racehorses.

The Trainer's Role: Balancing Success and Responsibility

Trainers hold a crucial position within the racing industry, responsible for the overall care and well-being of the horses under their guidance. However, the pursuit of success and the pressure to produce winning horses can sometimes overshadow the trainer's moral obligation to prioritize the horse's health. Instances of trainers racing injured or sick horses are regrettably not uncommon, putting the animals at grave risk and perpetuating a cycle of endangerment, The Horse reports. The suspension of a trainer who had a horse test positive for gabapentin—a medication typically used to treat horse pain—underscores the need for strict enforcement and accountability.

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Some trainers prioritize success over the health and well-being of the horses under their care.

Past Efforts and the Quest for Change

Reforms and Regulations: A Long Road Ahead

The racing industry has recognized the need for reforms and has taken steps to address the welfare of racing horses. Various organizations and regulatory bodies have implemented rules and guidelines to protect the well-being of these magnificent animals. However, it is evident that there is still a long road ahead to ensure their safety and create a sustainable future for racing horses.

In 2020, a bill was passed by Congress to establish the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA). This national regulatory organization has been assigned the responsibility of standardizing the rules of the sport, including regulations regarding permitted medications and the use of whips. Currently, these rules differ across states, as do the penalties for rule violations. The implementation of HISA aims to address these disparities by introducing consistent rules throughout the country. With HISA in place, trainers who breach the rules will be subject to penalties that prevent them from easily moving between states to continue their activities while under suspension. This move towards greater uniformity and enforcement reflects efforts to enhance the integrity and safety of horseracing.

Despite the implementation of such reforms, an investigation conducted by Lady Freethinker uncovered a distressing reality: numerous horses are still experiencing preventable deaths, with a significant 80 percent of these fatalities occurring in horses aged between 2 and 4 years old. Furthermore, despite the presence of regulations, the investigation revealed instances where horses were subjected to drugging, mistreatment, and being raced while unwell or injured. These findings highlight the ongoing challenges faced by the racing industry in ensuring the welfare of horses, despite purported reforms and regulations in place.

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Competitive pressure and urging from jockeys push racehorses to their limits.

Strides Towards Safer Tracks

One area of focus has been the improvement of track surfaces. Recognizing that track conditions can significantly impact the risk of injuries, efforts have been made to enhance the safety of racing surfaces. Extensive research and advancements in track technology have led to the development of synthetic surfaces that aim to provide better traction, cushioning, and overall safety for the horses. These innovations, along with rigorous track maintenance protocols, contribute to minimizing the likelihood of accidents caused by poor track conditions.

Enhanced Veterinary Oversight

Another important aspect of horse welfare in racing is the role of veterinarians. The presence of on-site veterinarians, along with stringent pre-race examinations, is intended to ensure that horses are fit to compete, The Horse reports. These professionals play a crucial role in identifying and addressing potential health issues, thereby minimizing the risk of racing horses while injured or unwell. Efforts have also been made to improve post-race veterinary checks, ensuring that any injuries sustained during the race are promptly diagnosed and treated.

Industry Collaboration and Education

Recognizing that change requires collective effort, industry stakeholders have come together to promote horse welfare. Collaborative initiatives, such as the creation of organizations like the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA), aim to provide support and resources for the retirement, retraining, and adoption of retired racehorses. These efforts aim to ensure that horses have a dignified life after their racing careers and are not left vulnerable to neglect or uncertain futures.

Moreover, education and awareness programs have been introduced to raise consciousness about responsible horse ownership, proper training methods, and the importance of ethical treatment in the racing industry, The New York Times reports. By fostering a culture of empathy and understanding, these programs aim to change the perception of horses as mere commodities and emphasize their intrinsic value as sentient beings.

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Devastating accidents on the track end lives abruptly and leave lasting emotional scars.

Supporting a Brighter Future for Racing Horses

While systemic changes are necessary to address the challenges faced by racing horses, individuals can also contribute to creating a brighter future for these magnificent creatures. Here are some ways you can make a positive impact:

1. Support Ethical Racing Practices

Choose to support racing organizations and events that prioritize horse welfare. Look for races that have implemented stringent safety measures, including track conditions, veterinary oversight, and post-race care protocols. By supporting races that prioritize the well-being of the horses, you send a message to the industry that horse welfare is of paramount importance.

2. Advocate for Transparency and Accountability

Demand transparency and accountability from racing organizations, trainers, and jockeys. Encourage the disclosure of injury data, drug testing results, and veterinary records. This information is crucial in identifying areas that require improvement and ensuring that responsible practices are followed throughout the industry.

3. Support Aftercare Programs

Contribute to organizations and initiatives focused on the aftercare and rehabilitation of retired racehorses. These programs play a vital role in ensuring that horses have a dignified and comfortable life after their racing careers. Your support can help provide these magnificent animals with the care, love, and second chances they deserve.

4. Promote Alternatives to Exploitative Activities

Encourage the exploration of alternative forms of equestrian sports and activities that prioritize the welfare of horses. There are numerous disciplines, such as dressage, show jumping, and eventing, that celebrate the partnership between horse and rider while focusing on their physical and emotional well-being. By promoting these alternatives, we can encourage a shift towards activities that prioritize the health and happiness of horses without subjecting them to the inherent risks of racing.

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Horses between the ages of 2 and 4 account for a significant percentage of preventable deaths in racing.

5. Advocate for Stricter Regulations and Enforcement

Urge lawmakers and regulatory bodies to implement and enforce stricter regulations within the racing industry. This includes comprehensive drug testing protocols, increased penalties for rule violations, and enhanced oversight of training and racing practices. By advocating for stronger regulations and their diligent enforcement, we can work towards creating a safer environment for racing horses.

6. Support Research and Innovation

Support scientific research and innovation aimed at improving the welfare of racing horses. This includes funding studies on track surfaces, injury prevention, and horse health. By investing in research and technology, we can gain valuable insights and develop innovative solutions that mitigate the risks faced by racing horses and enhance their overall well-being.

7. Raise Awareness and Educate Others

Become an advocate for racing horse welfare by raising awareness and educating others about the challenges they face. Share information about the realities of the industry, the need for change, and the steps individuals can take to make a difference. Use your voice to amplify the voices of these animals who cannot speak for themselves.

8. Support Equine Rescue and Rehabilitation Centers

Contribute to equine rescue and rehabilitation centers that specialize in rescuing and rehoming retired racing horses. These organizations provide critical care, rehabilitation, and training to help these horses transition into new lives after their racing careers. By supporting these centers, you actively contribute to giving these horses a second chance at a safe and fulfilling life.

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Take a stand for race horses!

The tragic cycle of exploitation and endangerment faced by racing horses demands urgent attention and action. The recent deaths at Churchill Downs serve as a distressing reminder of the need for comprehensive reforms and a shift in the racing industry's mindset.

Help us work towards a brighter future for these remarkable animals. Let us collectively strive for a racing industry that not only celebrates competition but also values and protects the lives of its most vital participants—the horses.

Click below to take action.