It was encouraging to see the conversation on the ethics of horse racing reach the sports coverage. However, Greg Wood misses the point when suggesting the demand for an end to racing is solely the concern of animal rights activists.
Beyond Animal Welfare
It is not only horses that suffer. Some of the most oppressive regimes around the world are involved in horse racing. The Saudi Cup, with prize money of $20 million, is a huge sportswashing endeavour comparable with that of the Qatari World Cup. Qatar itself has used its vast wealth to become a global power in thoroughbred breeding and racing to raise its international profile.
The Gambling Connection
Horse (and greyhound) racing, uniquely, is a sport that exists solely to support gambling. The addictive nature and negative outcomes of gambling are well known and bring the threat of ruinous bankruptcy and suicide to those “fans” who Wood refers to.
With actual participation beyond gambling confined to a very small number of the super-wealthy, horse racing is the ultimate sport of the millionaire class.
Deborah Yuill
Brighton
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