Target: Andrew Scanlon, Chairman of the Tasmanian Racing Club
Goal: Implore for a ban on Liandra Gray’s ability to train or own animals following her severe animal cruelty violation.
The alarming case of Liandra Gray, a racehorse trainer in Tasmania, has brought to light a concerning incident of apparent animal cruelty that demands immediate action. Gray was fined $2,000 after pleading guilty to whipping her horse, The Bolt, more than 40 times in just four minutes, an act deemed to cause unreasonable and unjustifiable pain. This revolting behavior not only suggests a blatant disregard for the welfare of animals but also a disturbing pattern, as Gray had previously been fined for riding a lame horse and neglecting proper care. Such actions should not be tolerated in the racing industry where the wellbeing of animals must be paramount.
Evidence presented in court included CCTV footage showing Gray leading The Bolt into a sand roll, appearing to whip him while holding him by the bridle. Although the footage may not have shown direct contact, the sound of the whip was apparently audible, and it can be inferred that the horse experienced moderate to severe pain during this cruel incident. Gray’s claims that her actions were not punishment or anger towards The Bolt and her assertions of expert misinterpretations have been criticized by magistrate Evan Hughes as “self-serving.”
It is essential to call for disciplinary measures that reflect the severity of Gray’s actions to set a precedent against animal cruelty in the racing industry. A ban on her ability to train or own animals is vital to uphold the integrity of the sport and protect the vulnerable animals involved. This petition seeks immediate intervention to ensure that such material cruelty is addressed decisively, reinforcing the standards of humane treatment for all racing animals.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Chairman Scanlon,
The recent case against Liandra Gray for animal cruelty has raised serious concerns regarding the treatment of racehorses in Tasmania. Gray’s apparent decision to whip her horse, The Bolt, more than 40 times in just four minutes, as captured on CCTV, is an alarming testament to a flawed approach that puts the wellbeing of these animals at serious risk. While the court handed down a fine and stated that this act was out of character, it is evident that such behavior cannot go unaddressed in an industry that is meant to uphold the highest standards of animal welfare.
The Bolt was subjected to what has been described as moderate to severe pain, contradicting Gray’s claims of her actions being merely a training technique. This incident occurred during a vulnerable moment for the horse and highlights a concerning trend of apparent neglect within Gray’s training methods, further evidenced by her previous fine for riding a lame horse. With each incident, the risk to animal welfare escalates, and it is critical for racing organizations to take a strong stance against such practices.
Therefore, we implore the Tasmanian Racing Club to take decisive action by enforcing a ban on Liandra Gray’s ability to train or own animals. The integrity of the racing industry relies on the commitment to humane treatment for all horses, and allowing Gray to continue without accountability undermines that commitment. Animals deserve to be treated with respect and compassion; it is time to act on their behalf.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Pixabay
