Horse races are competitions where horses are bet against each other for prizes. Although this basic concept dates back centuries, modern racing boasts large fields of runners with sophisticated monitoring equipment and immense sums at stake – however increasing awareness about its dark side threatens to diminish industry popularity.

Palio di Siena has long been one of the world’s premier horse races, taking place annually since 13th century and serving as a symbol of city pride and identity. Although not drawing large international audiences like other European events do, local residents still consider hosting it an honor and celebrate its winner with great pride.

Mounted and chariot racing first emerged 5,000 years ago, later making appearances in Olympic Games. England became a key contributor in horse racing’s development during the 17th and 18th centuries with King James I establishing Newmarket as an arena for breeding horses. By early 19th century organized racing had emerged with rules based on age, sex, birthplace and performance being enforced, graded by an expert panel, with top horses known as Blue Ribbon winners being honored with that designation.

By the 20th century, horse racing had grown into a thriving global business and entertainment industry with numerous races taking place worldwide. As its popularity surged further, growing concerns regarding animal welfare and drug use started eroding fan enthusiasm for this form of entertainment.

Though many factors have contributed to this decline, observers point to one as being particularly significant: drug usage in racing. Both legal and illegal substances used to mask injuries, boost performance or prevent exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage have all played a part in its decline. Many horses also receive medication to address metabolic conditions like ulcers.

Horse racing may have become a multibillion-dollar industry, yet it remains highly hazardous. Each year, thousands of horses are injured or killed during training and races; some are even transported overseas for human consumption. To protect its athletes’ wellbeing and ensure safe competition conditions for its participants (trainers, riders and owners), stricter enforcement and increased transparency must be instituted within the horse racing industry to regain its popularity.