Target: Lord Allen of Kensington, CBE, Chair of the Board, British Horseracing Authority
Goal: Ensure accountability after the tragic deaths of three beloved racehorses.
Recent events at Kempton Park raise alarming questions about the safety and treatment of racehorses. Three horses, including the Grade One-winning Kalif Du Berlais and two others, tragically lost their lives due to injuries sustained during races. Kalif Du Berlais reportedly suffered a broken shoulder that required euthanasia after an unseating incident, leaving both the racing community and his caretakers devastated. This recurring pattern of equine fatalities is not only heartbreaking but indicates potential failures in racecourse safety measures.
Further examination suggests a troubling disregard for the inherent risks faced by these animals when significant injuries lead to euthanasia. Reports indicate that one horse, Peso, was also put down due to undisclosed injuries sustained during a race, while another, Wertpol, met a similarly grim fate after suffering a life-ending injury. These occurrences highlight serious concerns regarding the oversight, regulations, and protocols that govern horse racing events. The British Horseracing Authority has said that there is currently no common factor linking these incidents, yet this suggests a significant loophole in ensuring the safety of racehorses.
Immediate actions are necessary to ensure these tragic incidents do not continue. The British Horseracing Authority must impose strict penalties on those responsible for negligence, conduct comprehensive safety reviews, and foster an environment that prioritizes the welfare of horses over competitive outcomes. It is crucial to hold accountable those who allow systemic failures to persist and demand changes that protect these noble animals from unnecessary harm in the future.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Lord Kensington,
The recent fatal incidents at Kempton Park involving three horses, including the renowned Kalif Du Berlais, have underscored the urgent need for reform and accountability in the horse racing industry. The tragic loss of these horses not only reveals a series of preventable injuries but also raises serious concerns regarding the safety protocols in place. With Kalif Du Berlais suffering a broken shoulder, Peso being euthanized due to unforeseen complications, and Wertpol sustaining fatal injuries during his race, it is evident that racing practices require immediate scrutiny and reform.
The British Horseracing Authority has reported that the injuries each horse sustained were unique and did not share any common factors, potentially signaling a lack of adequate safety measures or preventive care leading up to race day. These heartbreaking losses should serve as a catalyst for change, rather than just tragic statistics. The plight of the horses—and the emotional toll on their caretakers and owners—demands a thorough investigation and, when necessary, punitive actions for those found negligent in their duties to protect the horses.
Immediate steps must be taken to ensure rigorous safety protocols, implement accountability for lapses, and prioritize equine welfare in racing legislation. This petition demands that the British Horseracing Authority take decisive actions to address these alarming issues and impose appropriate consequences for those complicit in allowing these tragedies to occur.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Pixabay
