American Pharaoh was whipped 37 times in the Kentucky Derby. We can rationalize it, and reform it, but the bottom line is that it is one of the cruel tools of the brutal "sport" of horse racing. 126 horses died on the tracks of New York State last year.Nationally, Twenty Four die every week according to the New York Times.
8
I hate horse racing. It's a cruel practice - not even going to call it a sport. The animals have no say in this. They are in danger from the moment the gate opens. There have been too many unnecessary deaths. Images of horses being put down on the track are horrifying. And for what, so rich people can enjoy themselves and people can gamble. I hope all the horses racing in today's event make it down the track safe and sound.
5
If you have to hit the horse than you have no business riding the horse. The cruelty to horses is a disgrace. Human beings are a strange group.You beat a horse and drug it so you can bet money and parade yourself at a race track.
7
America cannot enjoy any of its traditions or traditional sporting vents without the liberal intelligentsia saying we're "barbaric" for doing so. Well, I guess they haven't found an angle to call baseball barbaric yet, like they have with NASCAR, boxing, horse racing, football, hockey, etc.
1
The problem with brain damage may end boxing and football. I doubt people have a problem with baseball unless you are going to try and hit people.
When we know more, we do better. I think Oprah said that.
When we know more, we do better. I think Oprah said that.
1
All these whining comments from those who have no idea what they're talking about. Thoroughbreds are coddled and pampered from the time their born and they're doing what they love, running as fast as they can. That's what they're built for. The odd trainer or owner who abuses them are fined and run out of the sport.
1
Just as we breed chickens with huge breasts and fragile legs that cannot support their body weight, we tinker with other animals to the nth degree to get something more extreme than our neighbor has. We do it for profit, for amusement and bragging rights. Do you think that if horses were to run wild, they would look like thoroughbreds within a few generations?
What happens to thoroughbreds when their 'career' is over or if they never had a career? You know what happens to them and you consider that pampering?
What happens to thoroughbreds when their 'career' is over or if they never had a career? You know what happens to them and you consider that pampering?
1
In the US, as Judyw pointed out already, we race two-year-olds whose bones are too fragile. We also medicate horses so they can run when they aren't sound. The Economist had an article a couple of years back that said American horses are not bred for soundness and buyers outside the US hesitate to buy them. They don't want Barbaros. Other countries have stricter rules about what amounts to doping and US horses aren't sound enough to run without drugs to mask lameness and bleeding problems. Thousands are retired after a few years and those of us who ride Thoroughbreds off the track deal with their health problems for years. Many have to be put down because they become too lame and are suffering. The Irish horse industry is a better model.
5
Does anyone remember the great Secretariat? He was hand ridden. Now that is a wonder horse.
4
Why not just standardize a lighter-weight whip that can't hurt the animals so much? I would be more like whacking a dog with a rolled up newspaper: it doesn't really hurt, but it gets their attention.
"It is an image that can be heart-pounding and disturbing."
Only for the 'hot house flowers' that many Americans have become. These same Americans would be disturbed by speaking to a horse in a harsh manner.
Only for the 'hot house flowers' that many Americans have become. These same Americans would be disturbed by speaking to a horse in a harsh manner.
Every year the PETA people have the same article. Let it go.
They should be banned. But if the "industry" will not ban it, stop with the laughably small fines and simply disqualify any horse whose jockey exceeded the whipping rules. That would make people stick to them.
Also: I don't know who finds horse racing appealing, but it's not people who love animals, or people who love horses, or people who love sport. Horses can't choose whether they compete; they are forced to and abused in the process.
Also: I don't know who finds horse racing appealing, but it's not people who love animals, or people who love horses, or people who love sport. Horses can't choose whether they compete; they are forced to and abused in the process.
3
As a former TB race horse trainer, not everyone abuses their horses. In fact, many race horses live better than most people and they are pampered. The whip can be abused but it has good too, you see many jockeys just flash it without hitting. Sometimes a horse will try and get out like what happened in the preakness if you watch carefully. There is abuse in every area of the horse industry! The saddleseat people who put chains with mercury on the ankles to make their feet so painful when they step they pick it right back up. The jumpers who force horses to unnaturally jump 5-6 feet, all the show people who work their horses for hours and then stick the horse in the stall, no cooling off, no rub downs, nothing. The backyard owners who can't afford their horses so they scrimp on food, hay, and vet bills. Abuse is everywhere, some intentional, some not but it's there. The only very wrong thing with horse racing as a whole I can agree with is racing them at 2. That is just too young. JMHO
6
if whipping a horse in some "athletic" contest is okay why not in human athletic events ?
2
The liberals are going after horse racing. They want it ended.
Jockeys have every incentive to use their whips excessively and none at all to stop. In fact, if a jockey does not be seen to be using every tool at his command to make his horse run faster he could face suspension for race fixing. These guys are pros, not animal abusers.
Have a universal rule in the U.S. regarding use of the whip like they have in England. If a jockey breaks that rule disqualify the horse (hitting the owner and trainer in the pocketbook) and in addition fine the jockey his share of the prize money.
Change the incentives and I guarantee you will not see ugly spectacles like Victor Espinosa beating American Pharoah down the stretch at Churchill Downs like he was a rented mule.
Have a universal rule in the U.S. regarding use of the whip like they have in England. If a jockey breaks that rule disqualify the horse (hitting the owner and trainer in the pocketbook) and in addition fine the jockey his share of the prize money.
Change the incentives and I guarantee you will not see ugly spectacles like Victor Espinosa beating American Pharoah down the stretch at Churchill Downs like he was a rented mule.
2
“The crop can be effective without being abusive.” (quoting the ex-jockey expert). And the same is true in the case of children, especially the "board of education" that the principal and coaches used on boys of my generation. But try and tell that to the "experts" who have ruined the public schools.
1
I've noticed also that their hooves seem to strike the dirt with cruel force, and the horses appear to perspire after the race. Some of them are even breathing hard. Shouldn't something be done about that?
1
I think what is so cruel about AMerican racing is that we race them so young. 2 year olds will be at the races in early spring ( and though a horses' official birth day is Jan 1), and some may have foaled late and you are racing a "baby" who may not even be 2 yet.
I think the triple crown would be a better series of races if it were held for older horses, thus encouraging trainers and owners to allow the horse to mature, and actually be full grown before racing them. So many of the top European races are for older horses. Horses last longer in Europe - they run on turf and US hard tracks really damage a horse's legs =
American Horse racing would do better if it had more top races for older horses instead of having so many Stakes for young horses. We need to reorient the culture of racing away from very young horses to older adult horses.
I think the triple crown would be a better series of races if it were held for older horses, thus encouraging trainers and owners to allow the horse to mature, and actually be full grown before racing them. So many of the top European races are for older horses. Horses last longer in Europe - they run on turf and US hard tracks really damage a horse's legs =
American Horse racing would do better if it had more top races for older horses instead of having so many Stakes for young horses. We need to reorient the culture of racing away from very young horses to older adult horses.
16
so nice to hear from an expert on horses and horse racing. Hard racing of older horses would make great entertainment. similar to the events held at the Roman Coliseum.
You're right. However, those who look at it as a business rather than a sport want a fast "return on investment". That is what is behind the compulsion to race them too young. If you can come up with a way to modify those who are thinking mainly of the bottom line, progress might be made.
I don't see it, though. It is an extremely expensive sport and all but the ultra rich have been forced out of it at this point. Who is going to convince those folks to be more concerned with sport and the well being of the animal than money?
I don't see it, though. It is an extremely expensive sport and all but the ultra rich have been forced out of it at this point. Who is going to convince those folks to be more concerned with sport and the well being of the animal than money?
2
Ban the whip. The outcome of a race should be determined by the horses desire to win and the talent of the jockey to motivate the horse to give it's best effort even if it means running the race a few fractions slower. I guarantee two things will change, fewer horses will break down during or after the race, horses will not be reluctant to enter the starters gate like the smart ones do now knowing they are not going to be whipped for doing something that comes naturally to them.
14
i remember as a kid back in the 70's and watching secratairiete racing and seeing him blow out to a lead so great of 16 furlongs and every tote out there said he could never do a mile and a half. what kind of horse could do that one with a heart so big it was almost twice the size of a normal racer. this horse is no different if his heart is big whipping will not be needed! i have watched races but no horse has ever done what that horse did since!
5
When I was a child I happened to see the race where Ruffian was hurt so badly and it still upsets me. Such a beautiful animal who I have read, was too young to have legs strong enough to be racing. There is not enough oversight in the world to protect the horses when money is involved. Unscrupulous breeding, training and racing practices will always follow money. "Sport of Kings"? "Sport" at all? Don't think so.
21
Yes more oversight by all means there are not enough laws and rules and regulations. After all, they are what make a difference, not a person's upbringing or moral character.
There were more elements to what happened to Ruffian. Match races are ridiculous pressure and a lot of experts believe she never should have been in a match race either. I could be wrong, but I can't think of any match races since then.
Ruffian was a tragedy, I was a child too and saw that race.
Ruffian was a tragedy, I was a child too and saw that race.
2
Isn't it time to start unwinding our obsession with racing (and breeding to race) horses? Look what it has become.
5
Yes, I'd much rather watch the virtuous sports football, baseball, basketball, and hockey. Those roided up Giants are true symbols of American sportsmanship.
3
Guppy pants has a point, but in the sports he mentions it's humans who are being abused and, theoretically at least, they make a personal, conscious, and willing decision to be involved. Not so with a horse. The bottom line is just that of course: money.
2
We can debate the virtues of any so-called sport, but the participants of the activities you've listed engage in them voluntarily (at least, the highly-paid adults do). The same can't be said for horse racing.
2
Add my voice to those advocating a ban on whips. Thank you for writing about this.
18
I would write "stupid sport" but horse racing is not a sport. It's animal abuse performed by cheap labor for the benefit of the state, rich people and gambling addicts. That's quite a trifecta, isn't it?
27
Unfortunately, your statement is exactly correct.
10
I completely disagree. But, there are problems with it. If you know anything about horses, you'd know that horses love to race. My horse was never happier than when he was racing. But it takes incredible expertise, skill, ability, and talent to be a truly good race horse trainer. Love for the animal is paramount.
I think football is an example of a stupid sport. I'm disgusted by most other sports in spite of having enjoyed playing those sports.
I think football is an example of a stupid sport. I'm disgusted by most other sports in spite of having enjoyed playing those sports.
2
Retire the crops/whips. Insert into each jockey's shirt a device to receive a shock delivered via remote control.... the trainer applies the appropriate negative stimulus to a jockey falling behind. Smart jockeys will soon learn to communicate speed without whipping their horses.
22
As someone who showed in a lot of horsemanship classes, I think it's safe to say that the more money that is involved, the greater the odds are that some kind of unpleasant coercion will be used on the horse.
I can remember using paper reins in a dressage class, and being so pleased with my horse--but it was an amateur show. My father was a real 'horse whisperer", and if he ever saw our horses head jerking around,, he assumed we had used the bit too harshly--and we were grounded for a week.
Horse racing is certainly exhilarating to watch, but it's always been about the money, so it's unlikely that there will be true, universal improvement in the cruelty associated with the "sport'.
I can remember using paper reins in a dressage class, and being so pleased with my horse--but it was an amateur show. My father was a real 'horse whisperer", and if he ever saw our horses head jerking around,, he assumed we had used the bit too harshly--and we were grounded for a week.
Horse racing is certainly exhilarating to watch, but it's always been about the money, so it's unlikely that there will be true, universal improvement in the cruelty associated with the "sport'.
21
Paper reins, that must have been back in the day when a kinder, gentler dressage reigned (to use a pun).
These days a dressage horse's head must be cranked in to his chest, his mouth forced shut by a flash noseband and relentlessly spurred to get those powerful collections and extensions that the modern show ring demands.
Wherever the rules of a sport allow for horses (or dogs or any other animal partners) humans compete with to be abused and the authorities do now crack down hard on cheaters and abusers abuse will prevail.
These days a dressage horse's head must be cranked in to his chest, his mouth forced shut by a flash noseband and relentlessly spurred to get those powerful collections and extensions that the modern show ring demands.
Wherever the rules of a sport allow for horses (or dogs or any other animal partners) humans compete with to be abused and the authorities do now crack down hard on cheaters and abusers abuse will prevail.
What is the cruelty you speak of? Thoroughbreds are the most coddled, pampered animals on the planet outside of the common house pet. They're doing what they love, running as fast as they can. It's what they were built for. Ever see Zenyatta? She always had the time of her life at the track.
1
Well if you know your horse you should know when it is giving maximum effort and when a crop will get its attention. The balance point is not evident to us but should be to the professional rider if he is competent.
7
Horse racing, is another example of a species having to justify its existence to the human species. Why can't human beings leave animals to simply be themselves? Why is runnning a horse in a circle justified, just for the amusement of human beings. Imagine your situation, if the roles were reversed. The use of animals in this fashion is outdated, unnecessary and unethical, whip or no whip.
13
Again all the arm-chair readers of the Nytimes become experts on a practice that existed since the beginning of recorded history. Sometimes, for one reason or the other, my horse refused to cross a creek or bridge and a simple branch applied to the rear will work fine. Can a whip be abusive? Of course, but that is the exception in this sport. The real problem with horse racing is that these animals are immature juveniles who have not fully developed. Sort of taking a 12 year old kid and forcing them to run a marathon. They are also bred for thin cannon and fetlock bones which are unable to support the forces on there legs causing fractures and premature death. Want to write an informed intelligent story? Look into these issues.
9
Most leg fractures and injuries are caused by improper training. Race horse trainers, good ones, have an impressive knowledge of horse physiology and sports physiology and medicine. Fractures occur when a horse is over-trained, raced too often, worked out too hard too close together, etc. That is why horse training is an art. It is an art to get a horse to peak performance ability without pushing too hard.
Veterinary medicine plays a huge part in it, as well. It's all dependent on using existing knowledge to care for the horse. Even track surfaces have a big impact on injuries and soundness.
Most injuries are caused by pushing the athlete too hard, too long, and too soon. Not by the sport itself.
Veterinary medicine plays a huge part in it, as well. It's all dependent on using existing knowledge to care for the horse. Even track surfaces have a big impact on injuries and soundness.
Most injuries are caused by pushing the athlete too hard, too long, and too soon. Not by the sport itself.
2
Disgusting. Can't these horse race enthusiasts find something better to do? What is wrong with people that they get a thrill from this "sport"? If you like races, go run one yourself. Don't inflict it on animals who can't just say no. This is animal abuse, plain and simple. And some try to justify it by saying things like, "who knows what the horse is thinking?" Are they serious? Ban the sport--let the horses alone--give them food, water, medicine, and kind owners. And don't breed them for this awful purpose. Animals rely on PEOPLE to take care of them. Unfortunately the human race isn't up to the job.
19
Eliminate horse racing, and you will see the death of thousands of animals who, as a result of the many voices raised here to ban horse racing, all in an effort to "save them", now face no purpose in life, other than to be destroyed. Will you help pay for, and be part of this catostrophic clean up? The horse population on the farms surrounding Lexington number in the thousands, will you come to Kentucky and help hold halters and calm them while we kill them?. I've held their heads, stood with them as the vet quietly ends their lives, will you help? Of course not, because when faced with actually doing something and working out the details, critics such as yourselves, scamper for cover. Its so easy to say ban this ban that. But to actually do something, help pay for it, get your hands dirty, its always "sorry I have no money, I can't help you, or its just not me, I don't have the time, its someone else's problem", So where will they go? Horses can live for 30 years. Going to just release them, or give all 50,000 of them to bright young kids in 4H clubs as projects? Horse slaughter is banned in the US. So the thousands that face no future will be jammed into trucks, and sent to Canada and Mexico. Last year 20,000 thoroughbreds were born, most of them in Kentucky. Shall we just release them into the mountains and hope it all works out? Horse racing has many issues, just banning it solves nothing.
1
If there is no racing, people will cease to breed so many horses. I believe that is pretty obvious. We no longer use horses to plow fields or pull carriages. They are the definition of buggy whip. Some people will keep horses as pets and there are a few free-roaming horses at least for the time being.
Elephants do not belong in circuses, orcas do not belong in shows and neither horses or dogs belong in racing. We are making real progress in animal welfare which is all to the good.
Elephants do not belong in circuses, orcas do not belong in shows and neither horses or dogs belong in racing. We are making real progress in animal welfare which is all to the good.
One closing statement - seeing Barbaro injured was terrible, but witnessing the horrific Eight Belles tragedy was so upsetting, I couldn't stop vomiting. To this day, that incident haunts me. The jockeys play an important part in the handling of a horse, but do not forget that it's the trainer who sanctions every decision. There's enough blame to go around for a host of others as well.
17
Eight Belles broke down well past the finish line, as she was decelerating. She was not being whipped when she fell. Barbaro broke down in the opening yards of the Preakness, after he had broken through the starting gate before the start. He was not being whipped when he was grievously injured.
4
You are correct in that a whip was not used in either case. However, both horses died of injuries related to horse racing. The fact that Eight Belles broke both of her front legs simutaneously and Barbaro shattered his rear right leg during the course of their races does not bode well for the overall issue of horse racing. I apologize if I inadvertently mislead anyone to think either horse's injuries were caused from being whipped by the jockey.
4
This is animal abuse. There is no other word for it. However, the states are in the business of owning racetracks and betting parlors so they don't want to give up the money.
I know, horses like to run but that doesn't mean they like to run in close quarters with a rider on top. Since whipping is part of winning then the jockeys are abusers. Why aren't they arrested for mistreating animals? Don't tell me the horses don't mind it.
Race horses today have skinny legs and ankles which make running dangerous. Some bleed in the lungs from racing. Hundreds are killed every year because of injuries. If this wasn't such a big money maker, it would be outlawed like dog fighting and cock fighting. Let's make the step toward humane treatment and end horse racing too.
I know, horses like to run but that doesn't mean they like to run in close quarters with a rider on top. Since whipping is part of winning then the jockeys are abusers. Why aren't they arrested for mistreating animals? Don't tell me the horses don't mind it.
Race horses today have skinny legs and ankles which make running dangerous. Some bleed in the lungs from racing. Hundreds are killed every year because of injuries. If this wasn't such a big money maker, it would be outlawed like dog fighting and cock fighting. Let's make the step toward humane treatment and end horse racing too.
24
Too many people on this thread seem to think that any use of the whip at all is cruel and inhumane.
In Lauren Hillenbrand's wonderful book about Seabiscuit, one of the greatest of all racehorses, she describes how the horse's jockeys used the crop to spur the horse forward at the crucial moment into its final run for the finish. A stroke or two was generally all that was needed. In one vital race, a replacement jockey didn't use the crop, Seabiscuit didn't get the signal it was accustomed to, and ended up losing by inches.
The recent rule changes described in the article appear to address the problem of overuse of the crop. They need to be applied nationally. What else is necessary?
In Lauren Hillenbrand's wonderful book about Seabiscuit, one of the greatest of all racehorses, she describes how the horse's jockeys used the crop to spur the horse forward at the crucial moment into its final run for the finish. A stroke or two was generally all that was needed. In one vital race, a replacement jockey didn't use the crop, Seabiscuit didn't get the signal it was accustomed to, and ended up losing by inches.
The recent rule changes described in the article appear to address the problem of overuse of the crop. They need to be applied nationally. What else is necessary?
13
Laura's brilliant writing clearly described how the Biscuit was able to over come such horrible abuse from prior trainers with intelligent and caring handling of trainer, Tom Smith and jockey, Red Pollard. Both gentlemen listened and observed the Biscuit's actions and behavior, giving way to a beautiful and lasting relationship between the three of them. Many lessons could be learned from the attitude and philosophy of Tom Smith and his love of horses.
4
There's a difference between using the crop and whipping. Conflating the two and making any use of discipline 'abuse' is nonsense.
4
This is like asking if it's ok to beat slaves to make them work harder. Of course it's cruel and those who do it are criminals, but it's the slavery in the first place that is the bigger crime.
17
Ask the retired thoroughbred whose only task now is to breed mares: Does he feel like a slave?
I think not. That you or I would be so lucky.
I think not. That you or I would be so lucky.
1
I remember reading the book Black Beauty when I was a child. There was a heartrending scene of someone whipping the horse until it collapsed.
I am allergic to animals and have no interest in horses or any other animal. But to this day I have an aversion to the idea of whipping a horse, especially when the purpose is simply to allow the owner/rider to win money. What a cruel reason to make the horse suffer. It is sickening...
I am allergic to animals and have no interest in horses or any other animal. But to this day I have an aversion to the idea of whipping a horse, especially when the purpose is simply to allow the owner/rider to win money. What a cruel reason to make the horse suffer. It is sickening...
16
So, we're supposed to make rational decisions on what should or should not be done based on what is in Black Beauty?
Please.
Please.
1
Betting on horse races involves a lot of money.
Owners /jockeys want to win.
They will do anything to win and that includes hitting horses.
The owners could stop the abuse.
Disqualify a horse in a race if the jockey starts hitting the horse.
But the owners just want to win so they won't stop the abuse.
Owners /jockeys want to win.
They will do anything to win and that includes hitting horses.
The owners could stop the abuse.
Disqualify a horse in a race if the jockey starts hitting the horse.
But the owners just want to win so they won't stop the abuse.
8
Abuse??? it might be but have you ever given say a dog a correction? It does not hur but gets attention. Not to say that it can't be abuse, but it does not always have to be.
2
I am not sure that "corrections' are a very effective part of dog training, but even if they are, they are part of training. Once the dog learns, corrections are rarely needed. Obviously whipping is not a correction but a very crude form of communication- the message: run for your life!
I agree with you that the financial incentives have to change. Set a rule. If the jockey breaks that rule disqualify the horse and fine the jockey what would have been his share of the prize money. You'll see excessive whipping disappear overnight.
1
Reverse the roles and ask if we'd allow horses to whip jockeys in a race.
15
It seems to me that if crops are banned across the board, then horses that win will do so based on their physical attributes, training, health status, personalities, and the skill of their riders. How can anyone have a problem with that? And if their times are a little slower, who cares? No one seems broken up with the fact that Secretariat's Belmont times haven't been matched, let alone approached, in 30 years. The sport needs a shot in the arm. A Triple Crown winner isn't enough to do it. Stricter and more uniformly applied health regulations, and also a strict limit if not outright ban on the crop, would go a long way.
14
The incessant whipping is the main reason I cannot bear to watch a horse race. It makes my stomach churn.
15
After a couple of minutes of watching the silly folks at the Kentucky Derby wearing ridiculous apparel and drinking mint juleps was more than enough for me. I suspect that the horses are far more intelligent than the asinine crowd betting on them Ban horse racing now !
13
You do not like it and find it silly. Ergo, it must be banned. Perfect argument.
1
The blow of the crop is intended to spur a reaction, a leap forward, and as Migliore says, "You hit me once, I lunge forward, you continue and I'm confused." Horse racing plays to the animal's natural flight instinct and because they are emotional animals they also respond to the excitement of the starting gate, the cheering crowds, and the sheer thrill of running, and yes being first. I've sat on such horses and it was thrilling.
To use a crop to incite the animal to even greater effort beyond that which it already is exhorted to do is patently unfair. The only reason that this works at all is because most horses don't last beyond a few seasons. Those who don't really like to run learn that nothing is really chasing them and stop going so fast. These you can beat into going the extra mile a few more times, but why? Most just wear out - used up before they're even fully grown. What's next? Tazers?
When it became illegal to dope jumping horses so they would jump through pain, some enterprising trainers found that if you scraped the sensitive skin above the hoof, they would lift them clear of the fence to avoid the agony of hitting them. Humans are cruel and selfish. Regulate the industry. Level the playing field. Let's see whose horse really wants to run or jump. What would be wrong with that?
To use a crop to incite the animal to even greater effort beyond that which it already is exhorted to do is patently unfair. The only reason that this works at all is because most horses don't last beyond a few seasons. Those who don't really like to run learn that nothing is really chasing them and stop going so fast. These you can beat into going the extra mile a few more times, but why? Most just wear out - used up before they're even fully grown. What's next? Tazers?
When it became illegal to dope jumping horses so they would jump through pain, some enterprising trainers found that if you scraped the sensitive skin above the hoof, they would lift them clear of the fence to avoid the agony of hitting them. Humans are cruel and selfish. Regulate the industry. Level the playing field. Let's see whose horse really wants to run or jump. What would be wrong with that?
14
This is going to be politically incorrect, but so be it.
It's a horse. None of us can get inside that creature's mind and know what it is thinking or feeling. Anyone who pretends otherwise is deluding themselves.
Does the crop cause pain? I don't know, but I suspect so. Do I care? I'm not sure. Clearly, it works. Otherwise it would not be used. Does it cause lasting psychological scars? I doubt it. It is, after all, a horse with a brain the size of, well, I'm not sure what a horse's brain looks like, but I suspect it's pretty small. I've seen lots of thoroughbreds that have run lots of races. They seem to like humans. They seem to like to run. They don't at all seem as if they're timid or scared of people, unlike dogs I have seen that have been abused and run into a corner and pee when someone approaches.
So, all this hand wringing over crops seems to me to be a lot of folks putting themselves in the horse's place and thinking to themselves "How would I like it" when they can never put themselves in a horse's place because they are not a horse and never will be. There are much weightier things to be concerned about--doping, overwork that leads to catastrophic injury, putting non-performers down--in the horse racing industry than this. I expect more from NYT than this article that, end of day, seems to be more pandering to certain interest groups than a rational view of the subject.
It's a horse. None of us can get inside that creature's mind and know what it is thinking or feeling. Anyone who pretends otherwise is deluding themselves.
Does the crop cause pain? I don't know, but I suspect so. Do I care? I'm not sure. Clearly, it works. Otherwise it would not be used. Does it cause lasting psychological scars? I doubt it. It is, after all, a horse with a brain the size of, well, I'm not sure what a horse's brain looks like, but I suspect it's pretty small. I've seen lots of thoroughbreds that have run lots of races. They seem to like humans. They seem to like to run. They don't at all seem as if they're timid or scared of people, unlike dogs I have seen that have been abused and run into a corner and pee when someone approaches.
So, all this hand wringing over crops seems to me to be a lot of folks putting themselves in the horse's place and thinking to themselves "How would I like it" when they can never put themselves in a horse's place because they are not a horse and never will be. There are much weightier things to be concerned about--doping, overwork that leads to catastrophic injury, putting non-performers down--in the horse racing industry than this. I expect more from NYT than this article that, end of day, seems to be more pandering to certain interest groups than a rational view of the subject.
10
Funny, the 'does it feel pain' is unknown for the horse, but the fundamentalists and conservatives are using this very concern, as scientifically unsound and not proven as it is, to ban any woman's request for an abortion after 20 weeks on the very grounds that, in their opinion, the fetus can feel pain.
What a pick an choose argument you bring.
What a pick an choose argument you bring.
1
'They like people'..... they have bits in their mouths to control their movements....how do you know they like you?
1
Winchestereast,
I said "They seem to like people." I don't know what's in a thoroughbred's head anymore than you do. I base this observation on horses that approach visitors to stalls and nuzzle human beings. I base this on horses that present themselves so that they can be petted. Just a guess, but if horses didn't like people, they would do their best to avoid people. They would not allow themselves to be petted. They would back away when people approached stalls. Of course, they would also, I assume, not allow themselves to be ridden.
I said "They seem to like people." I don't know what's in a thoroughbred's head anymore than you do. I base this observation on horses that approach visitors to stalls and nuzzle human beings. I base this on horses that present themselves so that they can be petted. Just a guess, but if horses didn't like people, they would do their best to avoid people. They would not allow themselves to be petted. They would back away when people approached stalls. Of course, they would also, I assume, not allow themselves to be ridden.
I know nothing of the care and feeding of horses. That said, I listened to a jockey explain that if a horse were hurt by the whip, the horse would simply stop. Additionally, I imagine the horse would not be welcoming to the perpetrator of that pain. Makes sense.
And at several thousand pounds to the humans' less than two hundred, and with powerful hind legs upon which it can rear up, the horse has an enormously effective way of getting offending riders of its back.
1
Horse racing is extremely cruel from beginning to end. Horses' legs are not meant to endure lengthy pounding on hard ground at unnatural speeds. Most of them do not live beyond their brief young lives on the track without developing severe injuries. Retired around 3-4 years old, they often head for the glue factory.
15
Sadly, you don't know what you are talking about. I've ridden and trained many Thoroughbreds who were "off the track" (trans: couldn't win/place/show). They made great hunter/jumpers, trail horses, etc.
1
I don't think that all the facts are here. Thoroughbred horses are bred for speed and setrength; Are you sure that "most" of them have brief lives and that "most" of them are euthanized ?
Not true. There have been, and are, many, many excellent horses that have gone from the race track to being backyard pets and/or show horses with long lives and careers and have come off the track sound and stayed that way.
It is mainly dependent on the ability of the trainer to keep the horse sound and avoid injury. It's not that hard. Injury is nor a foregone conclusion, most horses race and go on to have valuable, happy lives afterward.
It is mainly dependent on the ability of the trainer to keep the horse sound and avoid injury. It's not that hard. Injury is nor a foregone conclusion, most horses race and go on to have valuable, happy lives afterward.
2
Ban horse racing.
8
I wish I could say that I was amazed that this barbaric "sport" still exists in 2015, but I no longer doubt that there are limits to humans' cruelty and selfishness. We are a wretched species.
15
I could not agree more. We use other beings for our sport... horrible
6
oh stop. Most racehorses LOVE to run -- otherwise they don't get to the elite races. When you train dogs you often use a mild correction (a leash "pop", which is, still, the best method for teaching a behavior). I've trained horses and dogs and competed at a high level (and all my animal family still love me!). Horses are much dumber than dogs (do not learn as fast). A few quick slaps with a stick do wonders for the horse's focus. It's not abuse. You literally CANNOT force a horse to run fast.
3
Thank you to the New York Times for giving attention to this issue.
There aren't too many sights more beautiful than a thoroughbred running. But I stopped watching any horseracing years ago, because it is impossible to enjoy it when at any moment, there could be another disaster like the ones that befell Ruffian, Eight Belles, and Barbaro. The entire sport is fundamentally abusive to horses. And for absolutely no useful purpose -- just money and the entertainment of humans.
There aren't too many sights more beautiful than a thoroughbred running. But I stopped watching any horseracing years ago, because it is impossible to enjoy it when at any moment, there could be another disaster like the ones that befell Ruffian, Eight Belles, and Barbaro. The entire sport is fundamentally abusive to horses. And for absolutely no useful purpose -- just money and the entertainment of humans.
22
Don't forget Go for Wand. right before the Belmont race in 1990 or 91, the filly's foot pretty much broke off in front of the biggest crowd in racing for the year.
Cruel, corrupt sport with elderly fans. Will it even exist in 50 years?
15
Much like the Republican Party when you think of it.
2
I agree that overuse of the whip should be punished severely but I would not ban it outright. The whip takes the place of the rider's legs in a racing seat and is needed to reinforce the rider's voice and hands in accelerating and turning. Richard Migliore's suggestion that the rider have to wait to see if he gets a response sounds reasonable.
Judging from the comments many people here seem to be of the opinion that horse racing should be banned. That would be a shame. The sport is badly in need of a nationwide governing authority to set universal rules regarding medication and other matters of animal welfare and to enforce these rules stricktly but it is not in its essence cruel.
I've seen dressage horses with their noses cranked to their chests, mouths and flanks bloody, western pleasure horses ridden with chain saw blades in their mouths to get that desirable head set and show horses given more bute to give them the semblance of soundness than would be allowed on the race track--and don't get me started on dog show breeders. Let me just say that we can enjoy competing with our animals but there have to be rules to make sure that the animals are not abused in our quest for glory.
Judging from the comments many people here seem to be of the opinion that horse racing should be banned. That would be a shame. The sport is badly in need of a nationwide governing authority to set universal rules regarding medication and other matters of animal welfare and to enforce these rules stricktly but it is not in its essence cruel.
I've seen dressage horses with their noses cranked to their chests, mouths and flanks bloody, western pleasure horses ridden with chain saw blades in their mouths to get that desirable head set and show horses given more bute to give them the semblance of soundness than would be allowed on the race track--and don't get me started on dog show breeders. Let me just say that we can enjoy competing with our animals but there have to be rules to make sure that the animals are not abused in our quest for glory.
13
Maybe the jockeys should be whipped over and over and let's see how they like it.
14
As everyone is entitled to their opinion, my opinion is that horse and dog racing are extremely cruel and dangerous to the animals. People seem to like these spectator sports because they would like to see an fatal accident, as in car racing. I think it's sick. My opinion will never change anything, but I'm grateful for the opportunity to express it.
13
Wish the last sentence of this article had been the lede.
4
How we can justify in 2015 the sport of abusing animals for the enjoyment of humans is beyond me. Animals are thinking, feeling, beautiful beings that share the world with us. In what year will we look back at how we treat animals, as objects to be owned by humans, as a dark blot on humanity just as we have for slavery.
If you wouldn't like to be forced to carry something on your back that whips you and forces you to run while having a metal bit forced into your mouth and be shot if you break your ankle or slaughtered for meat if you don't perform, do you think a horse would choose this if we gave them the choice?
If you wouldn't like to be forced to carry something on your back that whips you and forces you to run while having a metal bit forced into your mouth and be shot if you break your ankle or slaughtered for meat if you don't perform, do you think a horse would choose this if we gave them the choice?
22
the horses never seem to enjoy it as much as the jocks,owners and fans. Same with the inmates at the zoo. I say leave the animals alone.
nuff said
nuff said
17
Ask your TB friends what "plugging in" a horse means. Explains the whips.
2
I never saw Ron Turcotte, the rider of the greatest horse in history, Secretariat, use the whip once in the horse's entire career.
20
Bravo for your comment, sir !
2
Use of the whip on horses is merely the tip of the iceberg. There are countless tragic stories of horses getting injured in various races resulting in being euthanized, stable fires and horses dying from suspicious and unexplained origins; then there's the entire chapter of questionable supplements horses receive via injections just so they "perform" better.
Secretariat is the perfect example of a horse who was born with greatness. He only required experienced training to develop that innate skill, talent and brilliance - not drugs or abuse.
Any time an animal is beaten, abused or threatened with torture is a crime against Nature and God.
This dark and evil side of horse racing should be exploited more often than merely on the eve of a potential contender for the Triple Crown.
Secretariat is the perfect example of a horse who was born with greatness. He only required experienced training to develop that innate skill, talent and brilliance - not drugs or abuse.
Any time an animal is beaten, abused or threatened with torture is a crime against Nature and God.
This dark and evil side of horse racing should be exploited more often than merely on the eve of a potential contender for the Triple Crown.
29
It's just disgusting, that horse racing is still considered a sport. It's cruelty.
29
I am surprised that we don't hear more from Mayor DeBlasio about what goes on just across the border in Nassau. If occasional stints at slowly pulling a carriage are bad for horses, what about racing where their lives are constantly put at severe risk (in racing & training)?
Anyone who wonders if the whip hurts a horse must be ignorant of the fact that their skin is so sensitive that they feel a horse fly alight. Horse racing is more about the money and the gambling than about glorifying this magnificent animal. Unsuccessful race horses are basically thrown away; they've been bred to have very slender cannons in the last several decades.
Interest in horse racing has been in decline for a number of years, so one can hope that the trend will continue
Interest in horse racing has been in decline for a number of years, so one can hope that the trend will continue
42
I used to love watching horse racing -- but just once seeing a wonderful creatures break their leg on the track...I do not care want to watch anymore. Really, I think it is fun only for the people.
3
Better whipped than turned to dog meat.
3
Are those the only options?
5
Unfortunately too many end up both, in some fashion.
2
The other option is just let them live. Theyre not on earth just to make some people money.
1
Social rank often led people to join the KKK a century ago, when christianism and racial purity were traditional family values in much of the USA. Then the rising sense of stigma forced supporters to flee.
Racing's air of perfume and cocktails is ripening into stench.
Racing's air of perfume and cocktails is ripening into stench.
14
After reading this article, I agree that use of the whip should be limited.
After reading the comments, I wonder if all the outraged people here expend as much energy protesting factory farming, which is crueler and infinitely more widespread than the whipping of a few elite horses—it's just not televised.
After reading the comments, I wonder if all the outraged people here expend as much energy protesting factory farming, which is crueler and infinitely more widespread than the whipping of a few elite horses—it's just not televised.
22
the owners are elite. not the "race" (not a breed i might add......) horse which has absolutely no choice and will be kicked, whipped, and forced into a life of submission. using animals for entertaiment is cruel and deeply ignorant and will some fine day be seen as such ~ as will factory farming.
1
"I wonder if all the outraged people here expend as much energy protesting factory farming"...
um, yes?
um, yes?
2
Factory Farming, Horse Racing, Vivsection are all means we use to subject animals to our will for profit and entertainment.
So sad! Another heartbreaking story about a beautiful animal subjected to man's cruelty for entertainment ( should'nt forget the circus elephants, tigers, lions and bears and sometimes our own pets ). If we believe that the horse does not suffer we could'nt be more wrong. It suffers severe pain, is frightened, confused, stressed and exhausted. There is a finite capacity beyond which he cannot perform just like us. And then we euthanize them when they break their leg - in their prime! If we used the same yardstick and killed everyone with any broken bones or sickness, our Planet's overpopulation problem would be solved!! That would be a crime, a crime and unbelievable callousness. But for the horse,$500 fine for a track-related violation? That's it? If the horse could speak he would sue the daylights off the Horse-Racing association. The fact that almost all the older jockeys are speaking out indicates there is a total lack of respect for this magnificent animal. Give these beautiful creatures free reign ( not reins ). And then let the best horse win.
26
I already hated horse racing for its multiple cruelties toward a wonderful animal - the horse. My outrage is coupled with sadness, and now a commitment to work for the end of horse raxcing.
49
I stopped watching after Ruffian. It breaks my heart to see how these beautiful creatures are treated.
2
This practice is abusive and must end. And a $300 fine is quite laughable.
17
A $300 fine for abusive behavior towards animals is like fining the Koch boys $1,000 for breaking campaign finance laws!
9
I agree. Disqualify the horse which will hit the owner in the pocketbook and fine the jockey what would have been his share of the prize money as well. If there were clear standards and a universally applied rule excessive whipping would disappear overnight.
For the record, the Central Park horses don't get whipped.
7
They get to stand all day in harness and then all night in tiny stalls in firetrap buildings. Theyre out in all kinds of weather regardless of the laws which are routinely flouted and unenforced. Nose to tailpipe every day. Yeah, the Central Park horses have it easy.
1
This is a cruel and abusive sport on so many levels - the flip side of the money and the glitz being injury, drugging, whipping, bad breeding, slaughterhouses - to name but a few.
When will the NY Times and sports journalists stop trumpeting this sport?
I guess when the money stops.
It is a travesty.
When will the NY Times and sports journalists stop trumpeting this sport?
I guess when the money stops.
It is a travesty.
20
Follow the money! Always follow the money!
8
Just to get technical, a crop is a type of whip that doesn't have a lash and instead has something more blunt at the end, usually a leather strap. It is as much meant to make noise as to hurt. Keep in mind that in most equestrian disciplines riders have their legs wrapped more or less around the horse's barrel and use their legs and heels to impel the horse. But in racing the jockeys are in very short stirrup leathers and are actually crouched on their feet over the horses withers and neck (to be over the galloping horse's center of gravity) and so they CAN'T kick the horse. You would have to hit a horse with a crop very hard indeed and probably repeatedly to break his skin. It's good that this article is focused on one questionable aspect of horse racing because it will raise awareness. But there are many other practices that are outright cruel in the sport and the horses are exposed to risks that can end their lives, such as the classic (because relatively common) fracture that ended Barbaro's career and life some years ago. And it's even worse for the horses that aren't elite race horses like American Pharaoh. Horse racing is fraught with trauma that scars these horses for life.
47
Martin--Thanks for the information. Great comment.
1
Horse racing is dying in any case. It's mostly a money losing proposition, propped up in some place by an adjacent casino and televised races from elsewhere. No sport can survive in the long run if it depends on support from other sources. Neither can 4 or 5 major events a year continue without feeder streams.
5
They should shoot the jockeys too if they have to shoot a horse who is injured during a race. Fair's fair, right? Which means the jockey should receive a lash for every lash to the horse. I'd be willing to lash the jockeys. And these sadists should not expect any leniency.
14
How about NO WHIPS at all ? Clucking, yelling, singing, patting, rein control can still be done to communicate with the animal. Hitting it with a whip is NOT HUMANE. Any questions ?
14
There was a rule on the use of the whip in Australia years ago, which forbad an overarm blow with the crop. Jockeys were required to use an underhand motion, rear to front. It sounds awkward, but race riders strike rump-shoulder-rump-shoulder very quickly, the horse gets the idea, and the force of the blow is limited by the rule.
If I were coming out of the turn into the straight in a pack, trying for the rail, and a horse on my inside started to drift out (as happens often) I would hope that the other jockey would have the crop available to work the horse into line and avoid a disaster. For that reason alone I would oppose banning the crop. Designing a more humane crop is perhaps a good idea, and it should be technically possible to make a crop that simply will not break skin.
If I were coming out of the turn into the straight in a pack, trying for the rail, and a horse on my inside started to drift out (as happens often) I would hope that the other jockey would have the crop available to work the horse into line and avoid a disaster. For that reason alone I would oppose banning the crop. Designing a more humane crop is perhaps a good idea, and it should be technically possible to make a crop that simply will not break skin.
28
The elephant hook is supposedly designed to be used as you describe -- to steer a massive animal in the desired direction, to "avoid a disaster." In practice, however, it is used punitively and abusively. Humans are still primitive creatures at a basic level. Put a pain-inflicting tool in the hands of a worked-up human, and it is likely to be used abusively and unproductively. A skilled rider can steer a horse with her heels, body weight and skillful use of the reins. Perhaps featherlight jockeys flying way above the saddle have less influence on the beast below them? If that is the case, maybe that is what needs to change, so skilled riding can return to the track.
10
The whip is only one form of cruelty inflicted on these slave animals. They die right on the track, their hearts burst, their skinny legs break on the hard astroturf, and they get shot - I have always found racing disturbing, and the more one reads into it, it is distrubing and disgusting. A fast horse loving a run is a thing of beauty. This harsh torture by greedy humans has nothing to do with that sight.
Why is it always men who specialize in torture, predominantly men who invent these institutions?
Why is it always men who specialize in torture, predominantly men who invent these institutions?
110
You mean the same men who invented nearly major product or innovation since the dawn of time, from electric power to motorized farm equipment to airplanes to sewing machines? Maybe they need a break and a little relaxation after building the world that you enjoy. I'd love to know what great worldly contribution you made.
Race horses don't run on astroturf.
Yet another situation where US rules and UK rules diverge. There are strictly enforced whip rules in UK racing that frequently result in jockeus being set down for overuse of the whip. Often the RSPCA brings the complaint to racing authorities.
If the NY Times staff had done any research, the article would have included the British racing rules for stick use and how often it's enforced. Failure to research and report what overseas racing jurisdictions are doing on this leads to unbalanced reporting.
The FEI also has some rules in at least some of the horse sports that it regulates about when and how stick use is appropriate.
'
If the NY Times staff had done any research, the article would have included the British racing rules for stick use and how often it's enforced. Failure to research and report what overseas racing jurisdictions are doing on this leads to unbalanced reporting.
The FEI also has some rules in at least some of the horse sports that it regulates about when and how stick use is appropriate.
'
12
There is nothing in it for the horse whether he wins or not! He does not require motivation for a task where he does not benefit. so how can we justify whipping? Ban it.
55
On the question of whether to use a whip or not on a horse, any horse, I come down on the side of viewing the use of the crop, or whip as abuse.
When I first learned to ride a horse over 60 years ago, my teacher, who grew up with horses and believed in a light hand, had me leave my nice new riding crop with my mother. He suggested instead that I listen to the horse, learn to be one with the horse and communicate with it through a true understanding of its nature. It was basically the same training that Buck Brannaman uses as a "horse whisperer" today. While I never rode dressage, my brothers did. They never used a whip, because the smallest change of a thigh, knee or hand position directed the horse, and they found it to be unnecessary.
I know that jockeys ride horses with far less full body contact than show horse riders, but there must be a way to encourage a horse to run his race without the use of a whip. I don't care how lightly that whip is used. In its new incarnation it can still cause pain. That pain increases exponentially as adrenaline drives the jockey towards the finish line. All you have to do is hit your hand with one ounce of that adrenaline jockeys experience charging down the home stretch to feel the impact. It hurts.
When I first learned to ride a horse over 60 years ago, my teacher, who grew up with horses and believed in a light hand, had me leave my nice new riding crop with my mother. He suggested instead that I listen to the horse, learn to be one with the horse and communicate with it through a true understanding of its nature. It was basically the same training that Buck Brannaman uses as a "horse whisperer" today. While I never rode dressage, my brothers did. They never used a whip, because the smallest change of a thigh, knee or hand position directed the horse, and they found it to be unnecessary.
I know that jockeys ride horses with far less full body contact than show horse riders, but there must be a way to encourage a horse to run his race without the use of a whip. I don't care how lightly that whip is used. In its new incarnation it can still cause pain. That pain increases exponentially as adrenaline drives the jockey towards the finish line. All you have to do is hit your hand with one ounce of that adrenaline jockeys experience charging down the home stretch to feel the impact. It hurts.
62
I adopted a racing greyhound when she was 2 years old. Unlike many of the other dogs that were up for adoption, she was in relatively good shape. Because she was not a winning racer, she would have been put down if the rescue organization had not developed a relationship with the track. Like many Greyhounds, my dog has chronic stomach problems because of the food she was fed at the track. Still others have physical problems, like microscopic muscle tears that can be painful, or behavioral issues.
I know there is more money in horse racing, and perhaps the horses are treated better on a day to day basis, but putting a horse down due to a broken leg that was caused by the sport itself is inexcusable.
Just because we as a society need something to cheer for doesn't mean we should abuse animals just so we can be entertained. The fact that the dogs/horses have no say in the matter makes it all the more important that we act responsibly.
I know there is more money in horse racing, and perhaps the horses are treated better on a day to day basis, but putting a horse down due to a broken leg that was caused by the sport itself is inexcusable.
Just because we as a society need something to cheer for doesn't mean we should abuse animals just so we can be entertained. The fact that the dogs/horses have no say in the matter makes it all the more important that we act responsibly.
20
Your dog has stomach problems because of the food it was fed at the track.
I find that hard to believe.
I'm not an apologist for the dog or horse racing industry, but it makes zero sense to feed an athlete--human or canine or equine--food that weakens the critter, or human.
Stick to facts, not sensation. There are lots of terrible things about dog racing, to be sure, but don't go blaming your dog's stomach problems on what it was fed at the track unless or until you can provide specifics. Otherwise, you are actually hurting your cause. Think about it.
I find that hard to believe.
I'm not an apologist for the dog or horse racing industry, but it makes zero sense to feed an athlete--human or canine or equine--food that weakens the critter, or human.
Stick to facts, not sensation. There are lots of terrible things about dog racing, to be sure, but don't go blaming your dog's stomach problems on what it was fed at the track unless or until you can provide specifics. Otherwise, you are actually hurting your cause. Think about it.
A decade or so ago I was a member of a horse racing affinity group. Major concerns were about drugs. State regulations vary. Some meds, whether legal/illegal, seem to increase risk for horrid breakdowns, which a previous comment discussed in the also running issue of whipping.
8
Thank you for this. It has always troubled me!
Like so many other abuses, this too must end.
If you did it to a dog, wouldn't you be arrested?
Like so many other abuses, this too must end.
If you did it to a dog, wouldn't you be arrested?
23
You don't have to watch the jockeys beat these horses to know just how psychologically traumatized they are from years of "training." Just look in their eyes.
22
Horse racing is basically the same thing as dog fighting: they're bred for a specific purpose, and if they lose they will most likely die. The lucky ones are rescued and must live with the memory of physical abuse. Even if the horse had the capability of understanding the concept of glory, it still wouldn't care. In my mind, the disregard for the well-being of domesticated creatures is just another manifestation of humans' willingness to destroy their environment.
52
Of course in horse racing or any racing, winning is all that counts any any means necessary including the use of the whip is an acceptable. One can assume most of the time only the winning horses are examined for over use of the whip while others including when the skin is broken go unnoticed. It is amazing this article does not mention the Jockey use of his/ her heal to also prod the horse to run faster.
As far as the whip, one too many a times some riders who break wild horses often use whips to punish horses, who are stubborn or otherwise put up a fight rather then be subjugated.
Most recently I have been reading Jack London's Sea Wolf and note how cruel and inhuman some of the ships captains were be to their crews on long sea voyages, where absolute control and extreme savagery , cruelty and intimidation was way of life. Even in this day and age, let alone cruelty to animals is just one aspect of crooked timber of humanity, but man's cruelty to man is still far worst. More and more often cops in jails etc gang up and beat prisoners including helpless pregnant women.
As far as the whip, one too many a times some riders who break wild horses often use whips to punish horses, who are stubborn or otherwise put up a fight rather then be subjugated.
Most recently I have been reading Jack London's Sea Wolf and note how cruel and inhuman some of the ships captains were be to their crews on long sea voyages, where absolute control and extreme savagery , cruelty and intimidation was way of life. Even in this day and age, let alone cruelty to animals is just one aspect of crooked timber of humanity, but man's cruelty to man is still far worst. More and more often cops in jails etc gang up and beat prisoners including helpless pregnant women.
5
As long as we continue to socially condition our young not to care about the interests, opinions & feelings of those who are at our mercy, we will continue to live with man's violence against man. This moral schizophrenia has to stop!
1
Maybe if our language wasn't so full of euphemisms, we might see things a bit more clearly. Try this on for size: "The horse broke his leg, so we had to kill him." How would that play on Derby Day?
10
And there's a big pile of money to be had for the winners so if that means using the whip that's the price of doing business. Vets who excuse this treatment should be stripped of their licenses. If this were really about celebrating the ability of amazing animals, whipping or other abuses including drugs would not be part of the equation. But bottom line is that the horses don't matter, regardless of what the owners, the jockeys, and the fans say.
6
Horse racing is NOT a sport!
It is a money making game for breeders and millionaire dilettantes who have little concern for their expensive "toys" as long as they win! The animals are injected with all sorts of compounds and this alone should be reason enough to end the involuntary servitude of the horses.
I was around horses in my young life and they are very gentle creatures if treated with respect and caring!
It is a money making game for breeders and millionaire dilettantes who have little concern for their expensive "toys" as long as they win! The animals are injected with all sorts of compounds and this alone should be reason enough to end the involuntary servitude of the horses.
I was around horses in my young life and they are very gentle creatures if treated with respect and caring!
32
I've been a rider almost all my life and I will never condone or watch flat racing. This article just adds to the cruelty to these young animals who shouldn't be racing at the age the are in the first place!
I use a crop, just a slight tap in the hind quarters gets a horse's attention with the slight nudge of your heel. They don't need to be beaten, especially the amount of time was used in the Derby. The horse won by a landslide. What was the point?
They are motivated by the crop and incessant whipping does inflict a sense of punishment to the animal.
No horse's skin should ever be broken. That jockey should be called before the track board and given a much bigger fine than $500,
And yes, you can be sure I do not watch these races on TV or read about them in the newspaper. Some "sport."
I use a crop, just a slight tap in the hind quarters gets a horse's attention with the slight nudge of your heel. They don't need to be beaten, especially the amount of time was used in the Derby. The horse won by a landslide. What was the point?
They are motivated by the crop and incessant whipping does inflict a sense of punishment to the animal.
No horse's skin should ever be broken. That jockey should be called before the track board and given a much bigger fine than $500,
And yes, you can be sure I do not watch these races on TV or read about them in the newspaper. Some "sport."
79
Your rant would be more effective if you got the facts right. American Pharaoh was challenged all the way through the stretch by Firing Line and won the Derby by 1 length - nothing near a "landslide."
2
The is a large but not quickly noticeable distinction between fanning a horse with the stick without force and beating a horse. Think of a whip strike as the equivalent of a predator's claw on the hindquarters; if the horse can, it will go faster.
The problem is the number of strikes to elicit speed. If 3, which I seem to recall is the UK limit, don't bring a surge, then the horse simply has nothing left to give and any further strikes are abusive. Fanning is a very different thing from striking and isn't abusive. But it can be hard for a non-expert to tell the difference while the race is being run.
The problem is the number of strikes to elicit speed. If 3, which I seem to recall is the UK limit, don't bring a surge, then the horse simply has nothing left to give and any further strikes are abusive. Fanning is a very different thing from striking and isn't abusive. But it can be hard for a non-expert to tell the difference while the race is being run.
It's animal abuse, plain & simple. Horse racing (& dog racing) should have been outlawed a long time ago.
57
Like Bullfighting, Dog Racing, Cock Fighting, Dog Fighting, Horse Racing is immoral. These horses are athletes? Who asked them?
31
Shame on those that exploit animals for entertainment and profit. Karma will be settling up with you.
33
Everything about horse racing is cruel, exploitive, and detrimental to the horse. The whip is just the most visible part of a larger ugliness. Racing enthusiasts highlight the pampered life of the top racers, to combat any accusations of cruelty in the "sport." But those horses are just a decorative sprinkling on a turbid sea of mistreated and disposable animals, horses that are run too early and too hard -- often drugged -- and then sold for slaughter or simply abandoned when they break down or underperform (or they are maimed for insurance claims). The frequency of race horses breaking down of the track is sickening (a search brings up the headline "Eight horses put down in nine days of racing," and remember Barbaro?). Even the genetic design of the modern thoroughbred is the physical embodiment of cruelty. It is unethical to breed an animal too massive for its own ankle bones. There is a horse rescue near where I live that takes in viable horses found at meat auctions. They are often thoroughbreds with damaged legs. The whitewashing of horse racing is promulgated by news agencies running glossy features on the gorgeous superstars of the track (TV news showing footage of the horses getting bathed, massaged, or receiving laser therapy). Even the NYT is guilty of this. The same paper that has done some fine reporting in the past on on the drugs, corruption, and human and horse injuries in racing ran a puff piece the other day on the animal buddies that share racers' stalls.
78
"Everything about horse racing is cruel, exploitive, and detrimental to the horse." Damned straight. The "sport", so called, of horse racing ought to be banned. Period.
6
So the question is still unanswered. Does it hurt? What do we even mean by "hurt"? I'm sure if it breaks the skin, it hurts. But apparently that's rare. Does it feel like the lash on the bare back of a human, or more like a slap on the rump? It's really hard to guess how much pain a horse feels compared to a human, without actually being a horse.
Reluctantly, I can only conclude that centuries of experience with horse racing and decades of experience from veteran jockeys are the best guide to whether the crop is humane, and how it should be applied. Is it like a trainer slapping a boxer's face to make sure he's still alert and responsive? Or is it a cruel practice that should be consigned to history?
Logic suggests that trainers and jockeys would only do what their experience suggests will be effective, and not spoil a horse in whom many thousands of dollars have been invested. Veteran racers don't seem afraid of the whip or their trainers or jockeys, although they must have been whipped many times. But any practice that varies widely is bound to be carried to excess, and I'm glad that people are concerned enough to investigate and debate that problem, even if reasonable people might differ with respect to the answers.
Reluctantly, I can only conclude that centuries of experience with horse racing and decades of experience from veteran jockeys are the best guide to whether the crop is humane, and how it should be applied. Is it like a trainer slapping a boxer's face to make sure he's still alert and responsive? Or is it a cruel practice that should be consigned to history?
Logic suggests that trainers and jockeys would only do what their experience suggests will be effective, and not spoil a horse in whom many thousands of dollars have been invested. Veteran racers don't seem afraid of the whip or their trainers or jockeys, although they must have been whipped many times. But any practice that varies widely is bound to be carried to excess, and I'm glad that people are concerned enough to investigate and debate that problem, even if reasonable people might differ with respect to the answers.
19
Of course it hurts. That is not an unanswered question. Hit yourself with a crop or a close approximation to one, and see what you feel. Your neurological physiology is not that different from that of a horse.
I was hit with a belt when I was a child. it hurt, and it did nothing but harm.
I was hit with a belt when I was a child. it hurt, and it did nothing but harm.
14
Debate on the level of pain? Investigate what? How people feel isn't the issue her. Does is seem right to strike an animal for sport? It is really that simple. People could be mired in your silly questions for years which is probably why horse racing still exists. People continue to deflect the real issue by posing ridiculous questions. Would you like to be hit? Should we spend 100 years finding ways to rank pain instead of just doing the obvious? It isn't that complicated.
12
Your use of boxing to support your other argument is ineffective. No one would argue boxing is humane either.
7
Thoroughbred horses are bred to love to run. Whipping them just makes them love it more.
3
Irony? Yes? if not, may I suggest that the same method of positive reinforcement be exacted on human athletes - and how long do you think that training method would lasat.
I hope you are being sarcastic!
No one who knows anything about horses or cares about them can possibly accept flat racing.
No Thoroughbred should be even started under saddle with a rider until it is at least four years old. It depends on whether their knees are closed and that has to be checked by a vet. Sometimes they are a bit older as each horse matures at its own rate. The horse can be saddled and walked by hand a little earlier to get them accustomed to the saddle but not ridden.
The horse then would be ridden by a light weight rider for 15 to 20 minutes a day at a walk. Later on a little trotting would be added and quite a bit later some cantering. Galloping at full speed over distance would still be a long way off.
Race horses are started under saddle before they are two years old and are galloping over distance in races when they are two. Any wonder why they break down physically or mentally? They aren't even close to being physically mature and their knees certainly aren't fully closed. It is a recipe for disaster as has been proved far too often.
These so called horsemen know fully well that no horse, especially the Thoroughbred which matures at a slower pace that say a Quarter Horse, should be ridden until at least four but they don't care about the consequences to the horses. All they care about is money and their own enormous egos.
God help these beautiful, innocent and gentle creatures.
No one who knows anything about horses or cares about them can possibly accept flat racing.
No Thoroughbred should be even started under saddle with a rider until it is at least four years old. It depends on whether their knees are closed and that has to be checked by a vet. Sometimes they are a bit older as each horse matures at its own rate. The horse can be saddled and walked by hand a little earlier to get them accustomed to the saddle but not ridden.
The horse then would be ridden by a light weight rider for 15 to 20 minutes a day at a walk. Later on a little trotting would be added and quite a bit later some cantering. Galloping at full speed over distance would still be a long way off.
Race horses are started under saddle before they are two years old and are galloping over distance in races when they are two. Any wonder why they break down physically or mentally? They aren't even close to being physically mature and their knees certainly aren't fully closed. It is a recipe for disaster as has been proved far too often.
These so called horsemen know fully well that no horse, especially the Thoroughbred which matures at a slower pace that say a Quarter Horse, should be ridden until at least four but they don't care about the consequences to the horses. All they care about is money and their own enormous egos.
God help these beautiful, innocent and gentle creatures.
5
Zenyatta's trainer knew this and that's how he developed the greatest filly who won 19 races.
Horse racing is today's wannabe gladiator spectacle.
4
Oh brother! Will the writers of this paper never stop trying to create 'crises' that aren't real?
Consider their earlier efforts:
o Nail salons
o Horse drawn carriages in Central Park
o Alternative entrances for welfare recipients in affordable housing
o Almost anything by their global warming staff
Horses are 1,500 mammals with thick hides, born to run fast. Are we REALLY worried about THIS non-issue?
Consider their earlier efforts:
o Nail salons
o Horse drawn carriages in Central Park
o Alternative entrances for welfare recipients in affordable housing
o Almost anything by their global warming staff
Horses are 1,500 mammals with thick hides, born to run fast. Are we REALLY worried about THIS non-issue?
11
What we do to the least of us - human or not - we do to each other - these crisis are real - your response is unbelievable.
6
Thank you.
1
Actually horses are tactile animals and feel more than you think. I have ridden for years and I never used a whip except for show.
1
Here's a quote from Red Smith about the greatest horse to run Belmont.
"With no pursuit to urge him on, without a tap from Turcotte’s whip, he smashed the track record by two and three-fifth seconds, cracked the American record by two and a fifth."
Secretariat didn't need the whip to win.
The NYRA needs to eliminate its use altogether.
"With no pursuit to urge him on, without a tap from Turcotte’s whip, he smashed the track record by two and three-fifth seconds, cracked the American record by two and a fifth."
Secretariat didn't need the whip to win.
The NYRA needs to eliminate its use altogether.
52
$300 or $500 for a fine seems like...a slap on the wrist? Perhaps just a tap of the crop? I can't imagine that such small fines are much of a deterrent.
9
disgusting. the 'sport' should be abolished as is happening with dog racing
62
Why not just ban these things outright? The playing field will be level and no horse will be hurt.
42
And no horse will be killed for not performing up to snuff.
1
Right, and the smart money is on that this will improve the horses' performances.
1
If a horse is lugging in or out, a whip can send him in the other direction. Of course, a whip strike can also CAUSE a horse to swerve in or out.
If the horses are athletes, as horse racing aficionado's like to refer to them as, then why are they allowed to be abused? Can we whip a baseball player if they are errant in their ways?
The whip also seems padded just on the top 3rd and one side of the whip; watching videos of races and the frantic whipping by the jockeys, I doubt they are carefully using only the padded , top part. This needs to end.
The whip also seems padded just on the top 3rd and one side of the whip; watching videos of races and the frantic whipping by the jockeys, I doubt they are carefully using only the padded , top part. This needs to end.
58
Grateful to see that the Times is looking at this lurid business of horse racing through a different lens. Someday, when we're more enlightened, we'll look back at this so-called sport with embarrassment and shame.
95
Whining animal activists come out of the wood work. What a surprise.
Simple: Ban the whip or apply it to the corrupt NYS Racing Association and the NYS Racing and Wagering Board.
35
How about we discuss the age of these horses as it affects what we're doing to them. These horses are young, 4 yrs old, and their bodies have not finished growing. Why does this matter? Because so many of them are "put down" every season, sometimes right on the track surrounded with a screen so no one has to know about it. Their legs break easily, people. And they are killed when this happens. And it happens all the time. Anyone spectating at this "sport" should think about that. Ever consider what happens to them when their racing days are gone? They become dog food. Happy betting.
83
They are 3-YEARS OLD, not four.Their bones aren't even set, as evidenced by their feet sometimes falling off as in the case of "Go For Wand." In Europe they don't run them this hard until they are four.
2
The horses that run the Triple Crown races are three-years old. That is equivalent to a 17 year old human. At four they are more fully developed and can compare to young man of 20. That three-year human stretch between 17 and 20 makes a huge difference in the maturity of the horse.
1
Also in Europe they usually race on the turf which is much easier on horse. The US tracks are very hard in order to get as much speed as possible. The EUropeans are not as mesmerized by speed as the Americans are. European horses also race until they are much older like 7 or 8. Most American horses end their careers at 3 or 4 since by then they are pretty much broken down.
3
Is it possible to race a horse without the use of the whip at all?
27
Sometimes using the whip can be like stepping on the accelerator. If you are riding a horse who he is galloping easy and not extending himself, you may need to hit him a few times to wake him up and get him focused on picking up the speed.
It is a matter of judgment and knowing the horse you are riding. The more you ride the same horse the better you understand him. continually whipping a horse will not make him run faster if he is running as fast as he can. Here is were judgment and knowledge of the horse come him.
What this article does not mention, which can be even crueler are spurs. Some spurs have rowels which can draw blood. You are more apt to see the use of spurs in Cross Country events and show jumping. There a horse may be afraid of a strange obstacle and you will need whip and/or spurs to make him jump it.
It is a matter of judgment and knowing the horse you are riding. The more you ride the same horse the better you understand him. continually whipping a horse will not make him run faster if he is running as fast as he can. Here is were judgment and knowledge of the horse come him.
What this article does not mention, which can be even crueler are spurs. Some spurs have rowels which can draw blood. You are more apt to see the use of spurs in Cross Country events and show jumping. There a horse may be afraid of a strange obstacle and you will need whip and/or spurs to make him jump it.
3
A simple solution might be to video every rider (we have enough cameras) and at the end of the race, winner or not, the jockey gets the same crop used to apply the same number of 'encouragements' to his/her backside with the same observed force over a time period corresponding to the time the horse was in the race.
Oh, I guess that won't work. We rose up in horror against canings a few years ago, and this would be similar if not worse. Maybe just get rid of the thing?
Question: Do any jockeys ride without the whip? Do some carry it but not whip their mount?
Oh, I guess that won't work. We rose up in horror against canings a few years ago, and this would be similar if not worse. Maybe just get rid of the thing?
Question: Do any jockeys ride without the whip? Do some carry it but not whip their mount?
19
The $300 Espinoza was fined for breaking the skin of Stellar Wind with his whip during the Santa Anita Oaks was nothing more than a pittance. His behavior was cruel as it most certainly was with American Pharoah during the Derby. Why doesn't someone whip him until his skin is broken and see how he likes it? Not only should the fines be raised, but my concern is how Espinoza treats the splendid and, by all accounts, gentle athlete that is his horse in tomorrow's Belmont.
68
Wouldn't it be sight of American Pharoah dumped him? I will not watch racing any more, haven't for years - these horses are too young and too fragile for this nonsense. And the cost for not being able to live up to human expectations is death. No, I won't be part of that.
1
Well your wish of somebody getting injured proves what kind human being you are. Nothing but good came out of the race today and the racing industry will continue to provide a wonderful life for thoroughbreds, the most majestic and loved animals on the planet.
It's time those stupid traditions were gone, there are too many horses that have been hit for trying.
Would the trainer of a boxer insist he or she be hit to help them win, to increase aggression? Stupid idea.
Horses are far more sensitive than a lot of people give them credit for.