In response to the recent New York Times negative and factually incorrect article on the horse racing industry, I would argue that we, as an industry need to change our tack.
The New York Times piece pulled three angles–animal cruelty, human exploitation, and the time honoured 'the rich are stealing your money.' How can any story based on such
a narrative fail from raising temperatures? This was born out in the comment section at the end of the article, despite the quick action taken by Light Up Racing and Vicki Leonard to defend our sport, along with Bill Finley and Ray Paulick who both gallantly
stepped up to try to restore our equilibrium.
Was the damage control sufficient to hold back the growing momentum of unfavourable public opinion? I would charge that, worldwide as an industry we are not in good shape, and never will be until, we as an industry can relate to your everyday person on the street.
We have the most wonderful game on the planet. It's unique, it's filled with passion and passionate people who care deeply for their horses. It's a high octane, adrenaline charged, globally connected industry. Our issue is that despite all our efforts we have yet to make substantial inroads into an evolving society.
It has been said that a “Racehorse can take several thousand people for a ride at the same time.” I believe they can do even more than this, by creating a synergistic collaboration with Equine Assisted Services and Horse Racing. Thoroughbreds have
already entered this field, and are making a huge difference in many different sectors across the board, not least of all in mental health and wellness.
At a minimum an alliance between the two would:
Enhance Public Perception: Integrating racing with equine therapy shows a commitment to society and horse welfare, helping to counter negative perceptions of the industry. It positions racing as a responsible, caring sector that values the horses not just for their athletic ability but, as being essential partners in human development, their bond with humans is both practical and emotional, making them one of the most
important animals in history as living beings with significant value in post-race life.
Expand Audience Reach: By aligning with EAS, racing reaches a broader, more diverse audience, including those who may not typically engage with the sport. This includes individuals interested in therapy, animal welfare, and community programs,
thus broadening the appeal of racing and attracting new supporters who care about the horses' lives beyond the track.
Foster Sustainability: The alliance with EAS also introduces sustainability into the racing industry, demonstrating how horses can transition into new roles after their racing careers. This helps secure the future of racing by showing that the sport is evolving and adapting to new standards of animal care and public expectations, while at the same time, demonstrating how horses have an integral role in society, perhaps more now than
ever.
Expand the Role of Horses in Society: This collaboration redefines the role of horses, expanding their presence and importance in society. Beyond entertainment and sport,
horses become part of social change and healing, providing a profound sense of purpose for animals that have served the racing industry and benefitting individuals who may not have had access to such transformative experiences.
What steps can we take to create this alliance? We, that means everyone can look at programs such as ABIJAHS at Canterbury Downs in Minnesota, and explore the possibility of similar programs being created, or existing ones around the country which could be paired to the different racetracks as a way to increase exposure and support for both the facility and racing.
Familiarise yourselves with programs such as Stable Recovery, the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation's prison program, and Liskennett Equine Assisted Activity Centre in Ireland to learn first hand, the impact equine assisted services are having, and
the science as to how and why it is so effective. And why governments around the world are taking note. Encourage racetracks, sales companies, equine suppliers, farms, owners and trainers to align with accredited EAS programs in their own geographical locations.
We have a unique opportunity here to make a difference by changing the narrative. So let's begin by educating ourselves and spreading the word.
Useful links for further information:
Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance http://thoroughbredaftercare.org
PATH International http://pathintl.org
Horses for Mental Health https://horsesformentalhealth.org
Suzi Prichard-Jones is the author of BYERLEY, The Thoroughbred's Ticking Time Bomb and founder of the Byerley & Godolphin Conservation Project.
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