As we’re preparing for the most fun summer ever, it’s important to start talking about the star of the show – The Olympics. You, dear reader, can expect more and more articles covering this amazing event on this blog soon! And today, we’ll start discussing this topic through the lens of the forgotten championships; the sport that has been excluded from the Olympics; and that is horse racing.

Despite being immensely popular worldwide, horse racing has never been included in the Olympics. In this article, we delve into the reasons behind this omission and explore the complexities surrounding this captivating sport.

Historical Context

Equestrian sports have a long-standing association with the Olympics, even before we could imagine having a chance to bet on them online with Quinnbet Coupon Code or similar promotions. At the beginning of the 20th century, the Olympics featured dressage, show jumping and eventing. However, before that, the equestrian events were quite different (think of Polo, high and long jumps…). The International Olympic Committee (IOC) dropped equestrian events in 1904 but reintroduced them in 1912, focusing on dressage, eventing, and show jumping. These disciplines continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

The Curious Absence of Horse Racing

So, why isn’t horse racing part of the Olympics? Let’s explore the key factors:

Medals and Ownership

In traditional equestrian events at the Olympics, medals go to the athletes. But in horse racing, the question arises: who deserves the medal? Is it the rider or the owner of the horse? This ambiguity complicates matters. Unlike other equestrian disciplines, where the athlete’s performance determines victory, horse racing involves multiple stakeholders. Resolving this issue remains a challenge.

Treatment of Race Horses

The stringent anti-doping and animal protection laws upheld by organizations like the FEI (Fédération Équestre Internationale) and the Olympics make it difficult for horse racing to align with their principles. The welfare of racehorses is paramount, and any sport that compromises their well-being finds itself at odds with Olympic values.

Conclusion

While horse racing won’t grace the Olympic tracks anytime soon, perhaps it’s time to consider alternative avenues. Creating a separate “Horse Racing Olympiad” could allow this beloved sport to shine on its own stage, free from the constraints of the traditional Games. Until then, horse racing enthusiasts will continue to marvel at the speed, grace, and sheer power of these magnificent animals, even if the Olympic rings remain elusive for them.