For hundreds of years, spectators have marveled at the speed and power of a race horse. But behind the romanticized facade lies a world of injuries, drugs, gruesome breakdowns and slaughter. In fact, experts estimate that 3 thoroughbreds die every day from catastrophic injuries sustained in races. Those injuries are caused by the constant pressure to run at speeds far beyond a horse’s natural capabilities and by various methods of “encouragement” (whipping), drugging to mask pain, overfeeding and starvation. Many of these horses also suffer from the gruesome condition known as exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage, in which bleeding occurs in the lungs.
The sport of horse racing has evolved into a multibillion-dollar industry with historic tracks like Belmont Park, major events such as the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks, and significant institutions such as the American Stud Book. In addition to the equine athletes themselves, the burgeoning industry includes thousands of employees, including jockeys, trainers, veterinarians and breeders.
Among the most important factors in a horse’s performance is the track on which it runs. The surface can vary from dirt to synthetic, and the track’s conditions, such as whether it has been rained or is dry, can significantly influence the horses’ ability to run fast.
The type of horse used for racing can also have a huge impact on the outcome. Some racehorses are bred for stamina while others are specifically designed to sprint. In order to determine which horses are best suited to each type of race, a system of weighting is used, with allowances given to younger or female horses who compete against males and older or rebred horses.
A horse’s training and diet are also important factors in its performance. Many horses are forced to run faster than their bodies can safely handle, which can lead to catastrophic injuries such as fractures, sprains and, most commonly, hemorrhage in the lungs. Horses that bleed from their lungs are often put down immediately.
Moreover, the way in which horse races are reported in the media can also have an effect on their popularity and reputation. For instance, research has found that newspaper articles that frame elections as a competitive game are more likely to be positive for frontrunners and negative for underdogs. The same study found that large-chain and corporate-owned newspapers are more likely to employ this strategy.
A day at the horse races can be a fun and exciting experience, especially in Pennsylvania where there are six horse tracks. Whether you’re wagering on the favorite or just enjoying the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone at the races. Just be sure to take the time to read the rules before placing your bets. Otherwise, you may find yourself on the wrong side of the law.