Cheltenham should be BANNED: PETA issue damning statement after horse DIES on track
CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL, and indeed all horse racing, should be banned following the death of Ballyward on Tuesday.
That’s the view of animal rights organisation PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals), with Cheltenham 2019 having begun yesterday.
It comes after Ballyward had to be euthanised on the opening day having fallen in the final race of Tuesday’s action.
Ballyward was one of nine fallers in the National Hunt Challenge Cup, which saw just four of 18 runners finish.
PETA’s Director Elisa Allen commented: “Since twice as many horses fell than finished during yesterday's final race, the only thing shocking about Ballyward's death is that it was the only one.
“PETA is calling for a long-overdue investigation into drugging in racing, the use of whips, and other cruel practices that push horses past the breaking point so that big money can be made behind the scenes.
“Watching racing events like Cheltenham is as unacceptable these days as watching a bullfight.
“Horse racing is a stain on the UK's reputation as a nation that cares about animals, and it needs to be put out to pasture.”
Seven horses died at Cheltenham last year, with 41 having passed away at the Festival since 2007.
READ MORE: Cheltenham urged to SUSPEND all racing
Ballyward’s death comes despite new safety and welfare measures having been introduced at Cheltenham.
Every runner at the meeting now has a veterinary check before racing for the first time while inexperienced jockeys are being told they must walk the course before riding at the event.
Even so, Ballyward suffered an injury which saw him be euthanised.
A spokesman from Cheltenham Racecourse said: "Sadly Ballyward sustained an injury in the National Hunt Chase.
"They were immediately attended to by our vet team, who very sadly determined that it was necessary to euthanise them on welfare grounds.
"As animal lovers, we hate to lose any horse and of course we shall review this incident.
"Our thoughts are with the Ballyward's connections."