A horse race is a competition in which horses, guided by jockeys, are harnessed and ridden to compete over a set distance. The earliest recorded horse races date to the ancient world, and the sport has been popular throughout history in many cultures. Today, horse racing takes place at dozens of tracks in the United States and around the world. It employs thousands of people both with the horses and on the grandstand side to make sure the races run efficiently.
The most prestigious flat races are held over distances ranging from less than two miles to four miles. Short races, often referred to as sprints in the United States and routes in Europe, are considered tests of speed, while long-distance races are seen as tests of stamina.
Modern horse racing is a multi-billion dollar industry, with an estimated global revenue of $29 billion in 2018. The United States alone is home to nearly 200 licensed and sanctioned racetracks that host 3,000 races each year. The average race is attended by more than 100,000 fans.
In addition to a wide variety of betting opportunities, horse racing offers a number of other unique features that distinguish it from other forms of gambling. For example, in horse racing, wagering is not based on the outcome of individual events or the total number of competitors but rather on the odds of a particular horse winning a given race. In addition, many bettors use handicapping strategies to improve their chances of winning.
Despite the immense financial rewards associated with horse racing, the sport is plagued by problems of animal welfare and integrity. Inflated prize money can encourage trainers to impose more rigorous training on immature horses, leading to injuries and other serious issues. Furthermore, state based regulatory authorities rely on self-regulation, which can allow significant animal welfare issues to go undetected.
As a result of their unnatural training and confinement, many racehorses experience severe physical and psychological stress. Their suffering may manifest as compulsive behaviors such as biting, kicking, or self-harm. According to equine veterinarian Dr. Nicholas Dodman, confined to 12-by-12-foot stalls for 23 hours a day is similar to keeping a 100-pound child in a closet for a week.
Many racehorses are subjected to other forms of cruelty, including whipping and tethering. These practices cause pain and long-term distress, and are considered to be a violation of animal welfare legislation. Moreover, the use of Lasix, an anti-inflammatory drug commonly prescribed to racehorses, is highly controversial. It has been linked to an increased risk of injury and death for both humans and horses, and should be banned. Despite these concerns, the industry continues to promote horse racing as a legitimate form of entertainment for its patrons. To ensure that horse racing is fair and safe for all, the RSPCA advocates the establishment of an independent, comprehensive regulatory body to oversee horse racing. This body should be fully separated from commercial functions, enabling an appropriate balance between animal welfare and the integrity of the sport.