The Phenomenon of Horse Race Coverage
A horse race is a sport in which horses compete to win a wager placed on them. It is an ancient activity, practiced in civilizations throughout the world since at least 3,000 years ago, and it is deeply ingrained in human culture as a symbol of power and grace. Today, horse racing is a worldwide industry, with millions of fans across the globe united in their love of the sport and its enduring traditions. From the ceremonial pageantry of major events like the Kentucky Derby and Royal Ascot to the elegant fashions worn by spectators, horse races are steeped in time-honored customs that continue to captivate audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
For the millions of people who love the sport, watching a race is as much about the equine spirit as it is about making money. Many consider it a privilege to feel the earth shake as the mass of hooves barrels down the stretch and to witness the thunderous roar of the crowds. The horse race is also a social event that brings together a variety of different types of people, from business leaders and politicians to celebrities and average citizens.
Although there are numerous different forms of horse races, most of them are run over a distance of about one mile (1.6 kilometers). The winner is determined by a process called a photo finish, in which a photograph of the finish line is studied to determine who won. The term horse race can also be used figuratively to refer to any sort of close competition or contest.
The word horse race is also often used in political contexts to refer to a tight contest for something. This is particularly true when it is used in reference to a presidential election, with the candidates engaged in a desperate horse race to try and win the support of voters. In this kind of a horse race, it is easy for the issues at stake to get lost in the mudslinging and name-calling that characterize many political contests.
When journalists focus on who is winning or losing instead of reporting on policy issues — a practice known as horse race coverage in the media — voters, candidates and the news industry itself suffers, according to a growing body of research. This updated collection of research explores the phenomenon of horse race coverage and provides tips for avoiding it.
Among the most important developments in modern horse racing is the increased emphasis on animal welfare. In addition to the usual physical examinations of the horses, vets now routinely test for the presence of illegal substances that are sometimes used to mask injuries and boost performance. Pushed beyond their limits, many horses bleed from the lungs after running a race, and the drug furosemide (Lasix or Salix) is commonly administered to reduce this occurrence.
The isolation and confinement of racehorses, which can lead to the not-infrequent injuries described by Arthur, has become a major issue for animal rights activists, who are calling for reform or even outright bans on the sport. The animal rights movement is gaining momentum, but the vast majority of racing authorities are working to address these concerns, from improving track conditions to enhancing veterinary care.
