Reflecting on a Fifth Anniversary of Horse Racing History

In March 2020, federal prosecutors in New York drew the curtains on a dark era in horse racing history by indicting multiple individuals associated with the doping scandal. The case revealed several unethical practices endangering racehorse welfare, thus raising questions of integrity in the industry and triggering legal dramas for persons implicated. Five years on, the scandal continues to influence discourse about the sport’s future and the governing structure surrounding it.

The charges came to light on a scheme among Thoroughbred and Standardbred trainers, veterinarians, and other industry persons who conspired to administer illegal performance-enhancing drugs to racehorses. These are the substances that are often called blood-builders that illegally enhance stamina and performance, jeopardizing the horse’s health.

The allegations led to an outcry. Animal rights activists condemned the abuse of horses; legislators and regulators pressed for greater oversight, and racing fans demanded accountability. The scandal went right to the heart of the industry, raising much scrutiny and calls for reform.

Now that they have their return looming so close, the questions become difficult for racing to answer. Will they become part of the race family again? More importantly, should they? It is far from simple. Blood builders have been involved in such past controversies, having raised issues regarding fairness and horse welfare. For these reasons, indeed, the various regulatory bodies are now watching blood builders to try to control their potential misuse. The discussion surrounding blood builders and their perceived effects on the integrity of racing continues to be of prime concern in the discourses about the future of the sport.

There is no constitutional right to be a horse trainer or owner. The officiating bodies under which the racing industry operates license and regulate. Given the kind of infractions of such individuals, it is understandable that racing commissions and organizations would be hard-pressed to grant reinstatement to those guilty of doping violations. Yet, horse racing history has shown that several violators have managed to worm their way back into the game. Horse racing history is also full of instances where regulators were put in the situation of having to decide on terms for second chances. Although strict enforcement is suitable, horse racing history has been at those moments that some lights shone on redemption.

After a scandal like this, there has been a top-down approach of federal legislative and industry-level initiatives to tighten regulations and improve oversight. The HISA – Horse Racing Integrity and Safety Authority – established in 2020, is to create and enforce anti-doping and safety rules across horseracing. It has introduced stricter regulations regarding drug testing, increased penalties for violators, and has become a partner with law enforcement agencies.

Although these reforms have proven to be steps in the right direction, there remain challenges. Many popular names in the industry say these measures did not go far enough, while others believe enforcement is not consistent across jurisdictions. Standardization of regulations and closing loopholes would remain a key focus moving forward.

It is a sad moment for the commemoration of the scandal anniversary of the 5th year for the year 2020. Racing horses has a wonderful history and lots of followers, but the present and future of the sport depend on fair competition, the highest ethics, and care for the horses.

With steady upward moves in compliance requirements, the industry is expected to be monitored to see if it is really able to sail past the mishaps from yesterday. The road to redemption is long, and only time will tell if meaningful change will prevail.