Legendary horse trainer Gai Waterhouse has sparked a heated debate in the racing community with her recent tweet criticising the frequent postponement and abandonment of races and trials due to rain.
In her tweet, Waterhouse questioned the decision-making behind these cancellations, arguing that heavy tracks are safer for horses as they slow down the race, potentially reducing the risk of accidents. She highlighted the practice in Europe and New Zealand, where races continue on significantly heavier tracks compared to those in Australia.
“What has gone wrong with racing? Rain – and the races/trials are postponed which in every case means abandoned,” Waterhouse tweeted. “Heavy tracks are safer than every other type, they go slower and there are less accidents. They race in Europe and NZ on much heavier tracks.”
Waterhouse also emphasised the financial impact of abandoned meetings, pointing out that the cost is a burden on everyone involved in the industry. “The cost of abandoned meetings is very real – money out of all our pockets,” she added.
She concluded her tweet with a call for the industry to be more resilient, remarking, “It is winter. We have all become mindless marshmallows. Racing should toughen up.”
The tweet has garnered significant attention, with many in the racing industry expressing support for Waterhouse’s stance, while others argue that safety and animal welfare should remain the top priority.
As the debate continues, Waterhouse’s comments have undoubtedly reignited discussions on how best to balance safety, tradition, and financial considerations in the world of horse racing.
What has gone wrong with racing? Rain – and the races/trials are postponed which in every case means abandoned.
Heavy tracks are safer than every other type, they go slower and there are less accidents.
They race in Europe and NZ on much heavier tracks.
The cost of…
— Gai Waterhouse AO (@GaiWaterhouse1) July 9, 2024