The Grand National, the most legendary steeplechase of Britain, has been compared to Spanish bullfighting. The organizers have kept responsible of animal cruelty as 2 horses died during the race last Saturday. Due to a sweltering heat and an unusual firm ground only 19 horses finished instead of 40. The animals were so exhausted that even the winning horse was not able to be ridden into the winner's enclosure. The protest group Animal Aid want the event to be banned. They think that the horses who have died on the Grand National since 2000, did not die of accidents but was entirely predicted. My Opinion:
The Grand National is one of the most famous British traditions which was organized for the first time in 19th century. Same as the bullfighting in Spain this tradition has been going on for years. However, tradition or not, animal safety should have the main priority. From experience I know that sweltering heat asks a lot of energy from the horses. So in my opinion the organizers should consider the circumstances were in these horses has to perform and then there will be no need that this tradition should not be banned.
I absolutely agree with you in this, if the circumstances improve, they can still go on with the tradition!
BeantwoordenVerwijderenI think this tradition as a whole should be banned. It is yet another excellent example of anthropocentrism in practice. The suffering exacted upon these animals is held in neglect in light of human utility.
BeantwoordenVerwijderenI must agree with both Francien and Nonniej, traditions should be kept but also be innovated. Keep the tradition but make sure nobody dies.
BeantwoordenVerwijderenThis tradition should not be banned! It is part of the English culture, and people are right to be proud of it. Yet I do think that; if they can improve the circumstances without hurting this great tradition, they should do that.
BeantwoordenVerwijderenThey should be more careful with riding their horses! I know they want to win, but they got to watch out too. Watch out for your own safety and your horse's safety. Otherwise they won't be able to race at all...
BeantwoordenVerwijderenI think it depends on how people want to improve the circumstances to answer if it should be banned or not. Racing can be all in good fun, even horseracing. But people will never have a great consideration when it comes to traditions... Just look at the fox hunt!
BeantwoordenVerwijderenIf they realy want to improve, they need to be prepared to actually cancel it when it's too hot, get rid of the fences and/or shorten the 4,5 mile race distance. And be honest about it! If it were a marathon with human beings, would you cancel it due to circumstances or not? They are never critical enough when it comes to mere animals...
Oh, and in addition; I think you've already found yourself a subject for your speaker's corner!
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