Horse racing is one of the world’s most exciting spectator sports, boasting centuries-old tradition. Additionally, betting opportunities present themselves through horse racing events to give enthusiasts a chance at making big gains by placing bets on their favorite equine athletes. Although horse racing has its own set of regulations and traditions dating back centuries-long history; more modern technological advances have significantly increased safety and quality while improving racing experiences over time.
Since ancient times, horse races have been an exciting source of entertainment and betting since their first organized events took place during the Greek Olympic Games between 700 to 40 B.C. Even today, horse racing remains a beloved pastime that draws millions of viewers every year worldwide.
Horse racing may be popular and rich with history, yet recent years have presented it with unique challenges. According to research published by Journalists Resource researchers, when journalists instead focus on covering policy issues rather than covering electoral races (known as horse race coverage) instead of covering them when elections become close; voters, candidates and the news industry all suffer as a result. Horse race coverage becomes especially prevalent during close elections and their lead-up.
To meet the challenges posed by horse racing, improvements have been made to training practices and veterinary care for jockeys and horses. Riders were provided with better equipment – lighter saddles – while horses received various health treatments such as MRI scans, X-rays and endoscopes. Furthermore, veterinarians have created new tools such as thermal imaging cameras and 3D printing that produce casts, splints or prosthetics to assist injured or ill horses.
An increasing number of individuals and animal rights activists have voiced criticism against the horse racing industry, such as abusive training methods, illegal use of drugs to cover up injuries and enhance performance, as well as slaughter of American-bred horses overseas.
Horse racing can be an extremely risky sport for both horse and rider alike, with horses often being pushed beyond their limits and becoming injured or even dying, especially on tight oval tracks. Furthermore, horses may receive cocktails of legal and illegal drugs to mask injuries and improve performances; these may have severe side effects like exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH) or laminitis, with serious side effects including exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage or laminitis; sometimes these injuries require immediate euthanasia!