There was a time in my early thirties when I went to the races. Not for the track. For the dresses, friends, and fun. I didn’t think much beyond that. But every time the horses jumped, my stomach tightened. I felt anxious. Sick, even. I could not shake the thought that something would go wrong.
One day it did. A horse fell. A screen went up. And that beautiful, powerful animal was gone. I walked away devastated. And that feeling stayed with me. I took a little time to realise that what I was saying yes to, by going to the races, was something completely misaligned with my values. I am against animal cruelty. Full stop.
People often say, “They’re born to run.” Yes. Horses run. But not like this. Not under the pressure, risk profile, and cruelty that too often sit behind the spectacle.
When we talk about cruelty in horse racing, using a jigger – an electric device to shock a horse to force it to run faster – is a clear and recent example. In September 2025, the Victorian Racing Tribunal released footage of trainer Darren Weir using one of these banned devices on horses in his care. That’s evidence of cruelty masquerading as performance.
It reminds us: money often talks louder than the horse’s welfare. The industry has a history of tolerating practices that prioritise profit, spectacle, and competition over the dignity of these animals.
There is more that troubles me. Australia’s RSPCA has been clear about welfare concerns in racing and has called for the end of whips, tongue ties and spurs because they cause pain and stress. Their 2025 paper again opposed whipping on welfare grounds. These are not fringe views. They are evidence-based positions from a mainstream animal welfare body. Yet it continues.
Then there are the fatalities. The Melbourne Cup has seen multiple high-profile deaths in the past decade, which prompted stricter veterinary screening and other changes. That is just one race out of how many a year? Whether you love or loathe racing, that history is hard to ignore.
Reflection:
What are you supporting with your presence, your bet, or your social post? If you witnessed cruelty wearing a mask of glamour, would you still cheer?
I know some will argue that reforms have improved safety. Others will say cruelty is the exception, not the rule. I hear that. I also know how easy it is to get swept up in the social calendar and forget the cost. For me, it comes back to leadership and choice.
If self-leadership is leading yourself first, then every yes is a vote for the world you want to build. Mine includes compassion for animals. So, my vote is no.
This is not about shaming anyone. I have been that person at the track. I understand the pull of tradition, fashion, long lunches, and getting amongst it all.
I also understand the feeling you get when you realise your actions do not match your values. That was me, standing on the grass in heels, watching a green curtain go up.
If any of this lands for you, try a simple values check:
- Ask: What am I really supporting with my money, my presence, and my posts?
- Decide: If this choice became my legacy, would I be proud of it?
- Choose: If it is a no for you, what is your better yes instead, for fun, connection, and community?