Light Up Racing

A new New York Times article on horse racing has been published, and unfortunately, it follows a familiar pattern: misleading claims, outdated narratives, and a failure to acknowledge the industry’s real progress.

Link to the article is here.

They frame the industry as reliant on subsidies while overlooking the hundreds of millions it contributes in tax revenue.

They call racing a dying sport but ignore the record Kentucky Derby audience and the $2 billion invested in track infrastructure.

They question safety standards, even though racehorse fatalities have dropped 27% since HISA’s implementation, marking the safest period in modern racing.

Misinformation spreads when it goes unchallenged. That’s where this community comes in.

We encourage you to engage: jump into the comments, share the facts, and tag us @lightupracing on social media.

With the Kentucky Derby approaching, the grassroots network we’ve built is more important than ever in ensuring that the real story of racing is heard.

To help, we’ve put together a response document outlining key talking points directly for this article. Use it, share it, and help set the record straight.

📄  Click to download the document.

Key points:

1. This article is misleading and ignores racing’s real progress.

U.S. horse racing is safer, more regulated, and more economically impactful than ever before. Fatalities have dropped 27% under HISA, racing generates $36.4 billion in economic impact, and aftercare programs have rehomed over 18,500 retired racehorses. Instead of outdated narratives, focus on the real story: a sport that is improving and evolving.

2. The truth: racing funds itself, supports jobs, and prioritizes safety.

The U.S. racing industry contributes over $200 million in taxes annually, supports 491,000 jobs, and is investing more than ever in horse welfare and safety measures. Fatalities are at an all-time low, and major events like the Kentucky Derby continue to draw millions of fans. The sport isn’t dying – it’s adapting and growing.

3. Horse racing today is built on integrity, safety, and sustainability.

This article ignores racing’s biggest reforms, including the strictest veterinary oversight in history, enhanced safety protocols, and record-breaking aftercare initiatives. The 2024 Keeneland Sale hit $412 million, proving investor confidence in the sport’s future. Racing leading in animal welfare, economic impact, and sport integrity.

4. Horse racing remains a deeply rooted American tradition and is investing in a strong, long-term future

Horse racing is an enduring part of America’s cultural fabric, with marquee events like the Kentucky Derby drawing 16.7 million viewers in 2024, a 13% year-over-year increase, making it one of the most-watched sporting events in the U.S. Fan engagement remains strong, with $11.2 billion wagered on U.S. horse racing in 2024, while over $2 billion is currently invested in racetrack infrastructure projects at venues like Belmont Park, ensuring the sport’s long-term future. Racehorse safety is at an all-time high, with fatalities down 27% since the implementation of HISA, enhanced veterinary oversight, and strict medication regulations making the sport safer than ever.

Thanks for being part of this. Your voice makes a difference.

Vicky Leonard
Light Up Racing

Light Up Racing Directors

Price Bell

Dr. Jeff Berk

Christina Blacker

Roderick Wachman