The cruelty at Parx went beyond the mere quotidian Sunday with, as the track put it, “Exotic Animal Races featuring zebras, ostriches, and camels!” As I’ve oft said, this industry’s moral depravity knows no bounds.
Here is a video made by Revolution Philadelphia (our PA partners) member Mia Rivera. Watch as a terrified ostrich flails about in the “starting gate.” In a word, horrific.
An outlet called Delaware Valley News actually celebrated the event as a treat for children of all ages – giant slides, bounce houses, pony rides, etc. As to the main attraction:
“Usually, horse races run at Parx and a few hundred people show up. Today was Family Fun Day and thousands came out. Starting at the break between the fifth and six race and continuing until the end, exotic animals were brought out for a small race of maybe 75 yards. People crammed next to the barricade, hoping to get a photo or video. Sorry, no bets were being taken for the exotic races.”
Despicable. And their video really brings it home…
Finally, a few shots taken by HW Board Member Jennifer Sully:
Great documentation, Mia! Thank you for what you do!