PETA’s advertisement in the Louisville Courier Journal on Wednesday has again resorted to sensationalism in a desperate attempt to discredit horse racing.
This approach underscores their willingness to manipulate public perception at the expense of truth and financially profit from tasteless propaganda.
We urge the local community and the racing industry to stand united and defend the reputation of Kentucky and its iconic race against exaggerated and misleading dramatization.
The horse racing industry is firmly committed to reducing the incidence of injuries amongst racehorses, with significant equine safety changes already in place.
If you wish to provide friends with accurate information this Kentucky Derby week, online or in person, here are three factual points:
1. Significant Reduction in Eaaquine Injuries: Over the past 15 years a decline in annual life-ending injuries by 57% has been achieved, reflecting a 34% rate reduction. 99.9% of raceday starters will compete safely.
2. Advanced Technology and Safety Measures: Utilizing artificial intelligence, data is analyzed to identify potential risk factors for injuries, akin to safety protocols in other sports such as the NFL. The adoption of wearable technology and significant investments in advanced diagnostic imaging—like PET scans, MRIs, and CT scans—further aid our veterinarians and trainers in early detection of injury precursors. There are mandatory pre-race veterinary inspections for every Thoroughbred, to ensure no horse with diagnosable pre-existing injuries competes.
3. Federal Oversight through HISA: With the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA)’s comprehensive oversight, it is a new era of enhanced track and jockey safety, rigorous anti-doping measures, and strict medication control. This framework is set to significantly improve the safety standards of our sport, learning from past challenges and looking towards a safer future.
Light Up Racing is dedicated to supporting all reforms that will push horse racing to achieve the highest stand in equine welfare and transparency.
Whilst we are proud of the achievements in safety to date, we will constantly be seeking further progress.
Dr. Jeff Berk, Director of Light Up Racing and Veterinarian:
“While the PETA advertisement attempts to sensationalize past racing tragedies, it fails to recognize the extensive measures now in place to prevent such incidents and acknowledge the significant trend downward. Our commitment to the welfare of every horse in our care is unwavering. With HISA’s oversight, we are more equipped than ever to uphold and enhance the safety and integrity of horse racing.”
Be informed with the facts and stand proud this Derby week, visit lightupracing.com for resources and sign up as a member.
