video by @abc7news
Animal welfare groups are calling for the closure of Golden Gate Fields in California's Bay Area after the deaths of 28 racing horses in the state this year, including eight at the well-known racetrack. This comes after racing was suspended at Churchill Downs, the home of the Kentucky Derby, where 12 horses have died in the past month, sparking a review of safety measures.
Local supporters, such as members from the activist group Direct Action Everywhere, argue that banning horse racing is the most effective way to prevent these tragic fatalities. They claim the industry prioritizes profit over the welfare of the horses, leading to the animals being selectively bred, fed, and medicated for racing purposes.
Golden Gate Fields has not provided any comment on the horse fatalities. However, the California Horse Racing Board insists that the state has some of the most stringent regulations in the nation. They emphasize that many horse deaths result from illnesses and point to the implementation of over 50 safety measures aimed at safeguarding horses and riders. According to them, these efforts have contributed to a 55% reduction in equine fatalities since 2019.
Despite these improvements, Bay Area horse advocate Samantha Fay contends that even one death is too many and asserts that public outrage over the issue continues to grow. She believes those who claim a decrease in horse fatalities are 'on the wrong side of history.'
Activists hope that sustained public pressure will help achieve their objective of permanently closing venues like Golden Gate Fields. They argue that public scrutiny and negative attention can drive change. The recent suspension of racing at Churchill Downs might set a precedent for similar action in California.
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