Yeah, I know, thoroughbreds are built for speed. But I’ve been up close to them, and they are scared, bullied and abused in preparation for racing. Also, several horses die each year, and no one focuses on it. I hate horse racing and the Kentucky Derby. Sue me.

Check out this article from Courier Journal. This death happened recently, and it isn’t out of the normal:

A horse was euthanized April 24 after suffering an injury at Churchill Downs, just days ahead of the 151st Kentucky Derby.

Churchill Downs spokesperson Darren Rogers said Valley of Fire, a 3-year-old gelding, was euthanized after fracturing both front legs during morning training. Rogers called it a “catastrophic injury” for the horse and said the exercise rider was transported to the University of Louisville Hospital with left shoulder pain. No further updates were available on their condition. …

The euthanasia follows a successful season at Churchill Downs in 2024 and the death of twelve horses at the track in 2023. Several of the horses were similarly euthanized due to fractured limbs, and Churchill Downs operations were temporarily suspended.

Horse racing enthusiasts will tell you these beautiful animals love to run. But watch the end of the Derby and count how many jockeys are using the whip to get their horses across the finish line. I doubt that’s part of the love of running.