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16 March 2013

The RSPCA says today’s belated start to the 2013 jumps racing season is disappointing for animal

welfare.

The season was supposed to begin at Murray Bridge on March 3, but that race was cancelled. The

RSPCA understands there was a shortage of nominated horses.

RSPCA (SA) Media and Campaigns Manager Jennifer Salter said today’s hurdle and steeple events at

Oakbank will put horses and jockeys at risk.

“History tells us that jumps racing is dangerous. In 2012, three horses died on SA tracks in the name

of sport or entertainment,” she said.

“The previous year, five horses lost their lives – and those are just the on-track fatalities.

“The RSPCA is concerned it’s only a matter of time before the toll rises.”

Jumps racing is unacceptable in every other State except Victoria. Yet it continues to be condoned by

the South Australian Government.

Independent research conducted by RSPCA Victoria – which included the views of almost 350 South

Australians - found:

76% of females want jumps racing banned.

74% of people aged 18-34 want jumps racing banned.

43% feel less favourable about the industry because of jumps racing.

36% feel less favourable towards sponsors of the racing industry because of jumps racing.

25% either no longer attend race meetings or will consider not attending in the future

because of jumps racing.

“The RSPCA has been campaigning against jumps racing for decades and will continue to do so until

the Government and racing authorities put animal welfare first,” Ms Salter said.

“We’re urging South Australians to contact the Premier, their local MP, the South Australian Jockey

Club and Thoroughbred Racing SA to demand an end to this archaic sport.”

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