Horse races have long held a special place in our culture and history. Whether you enjoy betting on the outcome of a race, or simply love watching horses run, there is something about this enduring sport that draws us in.
But behind the romanticized facade of horse racing lies a dark world of injuries, drug abuse, gruesome breakdowns and slaughter. Horses used for racing are forced to sprint—often while being whipped and subjected to illegal electric shocks—at speeds that often exceed their natural ability, causing a painful condition called exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage that can lead to a fatal heart attack or death.
Despite its long and storied past, horse racing continues to face challenges as it faces increasing scrutiny from animal rights groups and the public. In the midst of declining attendance, racing is facing increased competition from other gambling options and sports entertainment and has been the target of many campaigns aimed at improving the safety of both animals and humans involved in the sport.
A few decades ago, horse racing was a global phenomenon. Its popularity and prestige made it a popular pastime among a variety of social classes, from the upper crust to the working class. In fact, horse racing even served as a model for the development of other forms of gambling and entertainment, such as the roulette wheel and card game poker.
In recent years, the popularity of horse racing has waned, in part due to increased awareness of its cruelty. A number of organizations, including PETA, have launched investigations into a variety of horse racing issues, from abusive training practices to drug use and the transport and slaughter of countless American-bred horses that end up in foreign slaughterhouses.
As a result of this growing awareness, horse racing is now undergoing a series of significant improvements. From thermal imaging cameras to MRI scanners and endoscopes, technological advancements are making it possible to spot even the most subtle health problems in horses. In addition, 3D printing technology can now produce casts, splints and prosthetics for injured horses.
During a horse race, players bet on the winner of each race by placing money in various betting pools. The winning bettors then collect a share of the total pot, after the track deducts a set percentage from the winners (Take Out). Each type of wager has its own terms and conditions, which can vary depending on the race type, field size, surface, purse, eligibilities, and claiming allowances. Other important factors include speed ratings, race history, and a horse’s current form.