Horse racing is wrestling with its conscience, following news that 201 racehorses died in action in Britain last year, the highest number since 2012
Horse racing is wrestling with its conscience, following the news published on Tuesday that 202 racehorses died in action in Britain last year, the highest number since 2012. More troublingly, the fatality rate went up, from 0.18% of all runners in 2017 to 0.22% last year.
Why has this happened? The main suggestion being kicked around is that 2018 was unusually hot and dry, which would tend to produce a racing surface with less give in it and a higher risk of leg injuries. On the other hand, clerks of the course are quick to water the ground these days and very mindful of the need to do so during the summer, on grounds of safety.
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