Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Horse Racing as Entertainment and Business

My next course of action was to delve into the world of horse racing and further examine the human and horse relationships involved in the media.  The first phone interview was with Bill Harris, a race horse owner for over 25 years.  He has had success in winning the prestigious Breeder's Cup and is proud to have two world record holders. When asked if he considers his race horses to be loyal pets or assets/commodities, he replied, "Although I have the utmost respect and love for these animals, in order to survive in this tough business one cannot get emotionally attached.  It would tear you apart both emotionally and financially.  It is a business."  However, he adds that he is very concerned for what is best for the horse and that they deserve to be humanely treated at all costs. He strongly opposes the use of any type of performance enhancing drugs.  He admits it is a common practice in the horse racing industry to use these drugs to mask injuries which can be harmful to the health of the horse.

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