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Originally Posted by parsixfarms
I could see this coming. I really do not wish to get into a debate about who's more important to racing: bettors or owners (I am both). Let's stipulate that both are necessary for racing to thrive. What does bother me is the suggestion that either should be placed above the interests of the horse.
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I've always been a bettor, and in the past I've owned a few lower level claiming horses. I agree that both owners and bettors are very important to racing. I don't talk to many current owners, and I know two who detest artifical surfaces. While the consensus of owners may favor artifical surfaces, I'm not so sure it's a strong consensus....and I'm not so sure they aren't basing there approval on what they are hearing from horsemen.
From a bettors prospective, this "welfare of the horse" arguement just seems incredibly hypocritical. When you look at the actions of horseman and commerical breeders over the past few decades---you'll see two groups who have placed themselves MILES above the interests of the horse.
From a racing fans prospective, and I can't speak for everyone when I say this, but I am in the camp that feels these races just plain aren't that fun to watch.