It's just a form of entertainment some people prefer. I for one don't but I can understand why others do. Also it isn't as bleak as you describe it.

That's not usually how it works. Jockeys that do whip their horses get their asses beat. Most of the time the jockey is just there to pull the horse back to keep them from burning out and to kinda steer 'em. [spoiler]Well, [i]most [/i] jockeys are actually there to pull the horses back when they're doing good as a means of rigging the betting, but whatever. [/spoiler]

They've regulations as to how hard a jockey can whip his horse. A racing horse is well maintained in expensive stables that keeps the horse happy, healthy and strong.

Most of the stuff we do to animals (and each other) is cruel. People are just f*cked up.

Go join peta if you're so angry

bull riding is cruel