Animal Rising is calling on the Jockey Club to cancel the Epsom Derby and protect horses. The group says that horse racing already poses an unacceptable level of risk and that any disruption would add to the need to call off the race.

Yesterday Running Lion broke out of the starting gates prior to the Oaks race, showing resistance to being used for racing [1].

In an attempt to continue productive dialogue with the Jockey Club and work for the safety of horses and jockeys, Animal Rising has called for the cancellation of the Epsom Derby Festival. Earlier today it was announced that Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby, would suspend races following 12 deaths recently

This comes as the group stages its “Epsom for All” festival outside the front of the racecourse, hosting events such as arts, soapbox races, and “eggless spoon races.”

19 arrests were made earlier this morning – including at homes in Mitcham and Byfleet

As the day of The Epsom Derby begins, Animal Rising is making a last call for the Jockey Club to see reason and cancel the Epsom Derby. The group says that yesterday’s story of animal resistance, where Running Lion refused to run in the Oaks, should inform us all about our broken relationship with other animals and the natural world.

Louisa Hillwood, a primary school teacher and spokesperson for Animal Rising said:

“The story of Running Lion’s bravery and courage yesterday should speak to us all. Her resistance to being used represents the struggle of all animals in horse racing, dog racing, and our food system. We can all see that these animals, like us, want to be free, safe, and happy.

In a country of animal lovers, now is the time to come together and have a critical national conversation about our broken relationship with other animals and the natural world. That begins with the Jockey Club acting responsibly, cancelling the Derby, and safeguarding the horses in their care.”

Animal Rising is a social movement to create a new relationship with all beings and give us a chance for a safe ecological future. The group primarily calls for the transition to a secure and sustainable plant-based food system, alongside a mass rewilding programme.