Horse races have long been used as a metaphor for political contests, with references to mud-slinging, name calling and attack ads as key features of campaigns. But horse races also refer to thoroughbred racing where horses are forced to race at speeds which can result in serious injury or even death for them – an industry worth billions that provides jobs and tax revenue for communities; yet behind its romanticized facade there can be drug abuse, horrific injuries and slaughter of these noble beasts.
Horse races are an increasingly popular event around the world. Ranging from flat races, steeplechases (races over jumps), harness racing (where horses pull a driver in a sulky), and endurance events like the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, Kentucky Derby and Melbourne Cup – popular races featuring elaborate hats worn by spectators while sipping mint juleps – to endurance events where spectators wear elaborate headgear – horse races generate significant tax revenues and attract investors alike!
Unfortunately, horses used for racing are often doped to an extent that would be unacceptable in other animal sports. Trainers inject them with performance-enhancing drugs like anabolic steroids and opiates to keep their horses at peak fitness during races; yet these injuries often prove fatal; according to one study three thoroughbreds die every day on North American racetracks!
Horse owners may be required to forego some of their earnings in exchange for racing their horses – this practice is known as deferred compensation. New York, for instance, mandates racetracks operating video lottery terminals turn over 12% of their net win to its horse racing authority for purses, capital improvements and operations expenses. Deferred compensation also creates an incentivization system which encourages investors and owners to spend more on horses leading to increased stakes and an increased chance of victory.
Though horse racing generates billions in revenue each year, its future is at an important crossroads. As more people become aware of its cruelty, more will withdraw their support; otherwise it could only take time before all racing completely collapses while horses continue to suffer and be put down far too frequently to justify.