Horse races are a spectacle of equine pageantry steeped in time-honored traditions that captivate audiences around the world. From the glitz and glamour of major events to the awe-inspiring beauty of the horses, there is something for everyone in this thrilling sport. But horse racing is also a cruel industry, and the welfare of racehorses has become a central issue. From track reforms to advances in veterinary care, industry leaders are working to improve conditions for the stars of the show.

When it comes to politics, the word horse race can be used in a loose sense, referring to any close contest. But when the term is used in reference to a political contest, it’s often code for mud-slinging and attack ads, which obscure the issues at stake and detract from a truly democratic process. That’s why journalists and journalism organizations have long criticized so-called horse race reporting, and some scholars have offered ideas for at least improving it.

For example, in a horse race, spectators feel the earth shake when a mass of thundering hooves goes barreling down the stretch. The race is a frenetic affair, but if you don’t have a seat in the celebrity-filled Millionaires Row or are not able to get to the rail, it can be hard to see how a horse is performing from the crowded infield where most fans watch the action. That’s why many people believe that horse-race coverage should be replaced with more informative, in-depth articles about the candidates’ positions on specific issues and the overall campaign.

There are several ways to improve horse-race reporting, including analyzing and comparing candidates’ fundraising activities. Then, reporters can highlight the results and compare them to past election performance, giving voters more information about how the race is shaping up. Some newsrooms even conduct straw polls at in-person events, or through their websites, to get a more informal gauge of public opinion.

The equine industry can improve its image by reducing the use of drugs and sedatives to train horses, and by instituting rules that ensure the safety of racehorses. Breeding 1,000-pound thoroughbreds with massive torsos and spindly legs is a recipe for breakdowns. They don’t reach full maturity — that is, when their bones stop growing and the growth plates in their vertebrae fuse — until age 6, and they’re thrust into intensive training at about 18 months.

Supporting PETA’s efforts to improve racing regulations, such as turf (grass) tracks only, a ban on whipping and competitive racing only after a horse has turned 3, would make a huge difference in the lives of these magnificent creatures. Then, they can have a real chance to win races, not just hearts.