In 2024, the California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) has reported an alarming increase in horse fatalities. Two recent incidents highlight the ongoing issues within the industry: a two-year-old horse named Contrary Gig passed away at Pleasanton on a Monday after participating in two races. On the same day, Alvarez, who was working as a support horse at Santa Anita, succumbed to musculoskeletal causes. The death toll for the year has reached 108, surpassing the highest since 2019. This situation raises serious questions about the welfare and safety of horses in racing.

Incidents Highlight Systemic Issues

The tragic events involving Contrary Gig and Alvarez underscore deep-rooted problems in the horse racing industry. Contrary Gig's brief racing career ended prematurely, while Alvarez faced fatal conditions while performing a crucial but undervalued role. These incidents reveal that despite claims of commitment to welfare, the reality may be far from satisfactory.

Contrary Gig had raced only twice before his untimely death. He did not fare well in either race, finishing last both times with a combined distance of nearly 50 lengths behind. His involvement in racing, overseen by trainers Larry Odbert and Neil Koch, raises concerns about the practices surrounding young horses. Similarly, Alvarez's role as a "pony" horse highlights another aspect of the industry where horses are subjected to significant physical stress. The term "pony" refers to horses used to lead or assist other horses during workouts, often under strenuous conditions.

Rising Death Toll Challenges Industry Claims

The escalating number of fatalities this year challenges the industry's assertions about safe racing and animal welfare. With 108 deaths recorded in 2024, it becomes evident that the current practices may not adequately protect horses. The high death toll suggests that the inherent risks of racing cannot be fully mitigated, leading to calls for reform.

The consistent rise in fatalities over the years has prompted scrutiny of the industry's commitment to safety. Critics argue that the rhetoric of "commitment to welfare" and "safe racing" does not align with the reality on the ground. For over a decade, evidence has accumulated, revealing the harsh truths about the treatment of horses in racing. Advocates for animal rights emphasize that the nature of the sport inherently involves cruelty and danger, urging for stricter regulations or alternative approaches to ensure better outcomes for these animals.