A horse race is a contest among horses that are either ridden by jockeys or pulled by sulkies and drivers. The event has entranced spectators for centuries and continues to fascinate today. However, the sport also has some dark sides that are rarely reported, especially in American media.
A classic succession “horse race” pits several recognized candidates against each other to determine the next chief executive officer of a large company. Some executives and governance observers are uncomfortable with this overt competition because they believe it can disrupt the performance of an organization. Yet, proponents of the horse race argue that it is a valid and effective tool to use when choosing a senior-level leader.
When done properly, the horse race approach can lead to a well-matched successor that aligns with the vision for the company’s future. Moreover, it signals that the board and current CEO have established a succession culture that includes processes to systematically prepare high achievers for more demanding roles. This, in turn, ensures that the next CEO has the competency and seasoning to take on the task.
One of the key drawbacks to horse racing is that it often results in the unnecessary suffering of horses. According to experts, racing can cause physical and psychological trauma for these animals. The confined, unnatural environments in which they are forced to run can inhibit their natural instincts and lead to mental and emotional distress. These problems can be manifested in behavioral issues such as biting, kicking and pacing. In many cases, euthanasia is the only way to end the suffering.
Another issue related to horse racing is the practice of using drugs on race horses to boost their performance and make them more likely to win a particular race. While random drug testing is in place, the drugs are often used to an excessive extent, and they can cause serious health problems for the horses. Moreover, the drugs can cause the animal to develop an addiction and in the long run, they can kill it.
After the race, most racehorses are either put down or sent to slaughterhouses. The reason is that they are not profitable for their owners to keep. This can happen due to a number of reasons including injuries, poor performance, and even age-related decline. The slaughterhouses then sell the horses for their meat to places like Japan and Canada where it is a popular delicacy.
Despite its controversial roots, horse racing has become an entertainment staple that provides the opportunity for spectators to bet on winners and enjoy the thrill of watching these beautiful animals run in front of them. However, the plight of these creatures is something that should not be ignored. It is crucial that we continue to support organizations who are dedicated to ending the cruelty of this industry and to raise awareness about the traumatic effects of horse racing. Hopefully, the day will come when the practice is banned around the world.