‘They Don’t Know What They’re Talking About’: Top Trainer Refutes Animal Welfare Criticism

Horse racing’s popularity is rising throughout Australia, as evidenced by the 285,000 supporters who attended Melbourne Cup Carnival Week. Still, the sport continues to attract criticism over alleged animal welfare issues. Victoria Derby Day and Melbourne Cup Day were both at near-capacity, with respective crowds of 81,612 and 91,168 going through the turnstiles at the Flemington venue on both occasions. Across the week, 45 percent of general admission ticket buyers were under the age of 35. The Melbourne Cup Carnival also generates jobs, with more than 14,000 accredited staff in 2024. The event delivered more than $468 million in gross economic benefit in 2023, a figure expected to be exceeded by this year’s Carnival when final numbers are compiled over the coming months....