The horse race is a global event steeped in tradition and elegance, attracting millions of fans to events that celebrate both human and equine spirit. From ancient chariot races to the grandeur of modern-day royal meetings, horse racing has been an international sport since recorded history began. Its popularity waxes and wanes, influenced by economic prosperity, war and peace, and the fortunes of horses themselves.
For many, the greatest appeal of horse racing is the chance to place a wager and see whether they will win a prize. Betting on the outcome of a horse race has been a part of the sport as long as it has existed in an organized form, and is an important source of revenue for both tracks and breeders.
In addition to bets on individual horses, bettors can also place wagers on the overall winner of a race. In addition to the classic win-place-show bet, popular wagers include a daily double, exacta, and quinella. The latter involves picking the winners of three or more consecutive races and is a great way to increase one’s chances of winning.
Despite the glamorous images of jockeys in finery, horse racing is a physically demanding sport that can take a toll on the animal’s body. The intense exercise can cause a number of injuries, including musculoskeletal issues like back pain, lameness, and joint problems, as well as cardiovascular disease. It can also result in a condition called colic, in which the horse’s digestive tract becomes inflamed. In extreme cases, it can lead to death.
Aside from the physical challenges, the confined nature of a racehorse’s existence often leads to mental health issues. According to animal behaviorist Nicholas Dodman, “In order to meet the demands of this sport, these animals are trained to suppress their natural instincts and to be pushed beyond their physiological limits. It is therefore not surprising that they are so easily stressed and often suffer from debilitating illnesses, such as bleeding lungs, ringbone, gastric ulcers, and heart attacks.”
When a horse does make it to the end of its racing career, however, a happy retirement is rarely in store for them. The industry values them only as long as they are profitable, and once they stop earning money, they are often discarded. Some will be repurposed in equestrian sports, but most will be shot or slaughtered for meat.
Despite the fact that betting props up this exploitative industry, there are ways to help stop horse racing for good. Boycotting the track is the most effective way to express disapproval, and placing a bet on another sport that treats its athletes as willing participants rather than mistreated animals is an easy alternative. Jennifer Sully, organizer with Maryland-based Horseracing Wrongs, has led anti-horse race demonstrations most weekends at Laurel or Pimlico since 2018. For more information, visit their website.