Top Trainer Disputes Animal Welfare Criticism: ‘They Have No Idea What They’re Saying’
The Melbourne Cup Carnival continues to draw massive crowds, with 285,000 supporters attending despite criticism from the #NuptotheCup movement. A Group 1-winning trainer has dismissed claims of animal cruelty as ‘nonsense.’
Horse racing’s popularity is on the rise in Australia, evident from the near-capacity crowds at Victoria Derby Day and Melbourne Cup Day at the Flemington venue. 45 percent of general admission ticket buyers were under 35 years old.
The Melbourne Cup Carnival provides jobs for over 14,000 accredited staff and delivered over $468 million in gross economic benefit in 2023.
“The Carnival not only featured the best in thoroughbred racing, fashion, and entertainment but also showcased Melbourne as the premier events destination,” said Victorian Minister for Racing Anthony Carbines.
Despite the success of the carnival, there is ongoing criticism regarding animal welfare in the industry, with movements like #NuptotheCup gaining traction.
The Coalition for the Protection of Racehorses (CPR) released a Deathwatch report for 2024, citing 151 racehorse deaths between 2023 and 2024 in Australia.
At the same time, a Melbourne Cup Carnival Group 1-winning trainer, Matt Laurie, defended animal welfare practices in the industry. He emphasized the care and dedication invested in his horses’ well-being, stating that allegations of mistreatment are baseless.
