LONDON: British police deployed at the Epsom Derby on Saturday apprehended several individuals, including an activist from the rights group Animal Rising, who invaded the track during the prestigious horse race. The protesters were swiftly removed by police and stewards before the 14 horses reached that section of the track, prompting cheers from the gathered spectators.
Another woman was arrested as she attempted to climb over the fence, while Animal Rising criticized race organizers for prioritizing profit over animal welfare, calling it a “sickening display.”
Ahead of the race, Surrey Police preemptively arrested 19 activists affiliated with the animal rights group in an operation surrounding the Epsom racecourse, located near London. All of them were detained on suspicion of conspiracy to commit public nuisance, according to the police force.
“We have made it clear that criminal activity will not be tolerated at the Epsom Derby Festival,” stated Senior Surrey Officer Michael Hodder in a press release.
The winner of one of British sport’s most high-profile events was Auguste Rodin, triumphing over the ironically named pre-race favorite, Arrest.
Animal Rising, undeterred by the arrests and a recent court injunction obtained by the Jockey Club, had previously declared its intentions. In April, their activists stormed the Grand National race at Aintree near Liverpool, and just last week, they claimed to have “rescued” three lambs from slaughter on King Charles III’s Sandringham estate.
The group argues that the destruction of three injured horses during the Grand National steeplechase festival serves as proof that horse racing is fatally dangerous.
The Jockey Club, which oversees tracks including Aintree, Epsom, and Cheltenham, successfully obtained a High Court injunction that prohibits individuals from entering the Epsom racetrack and engaging in disruptive acts. Breaching the injunction would amount to contempt of court and could lead to imprisonment.
Nevin Truesdale, the Chief Executive of the Jockey Club, welcomed the court ruling and expressed concern about the group’s “dangerous and reckless behavior” at Aintree. Truesdale emphasized that ensuring the safety of all participants, both equine and human, is their top priority.
Historical Significance Epsom Derby
The Epsom Derby holds historical significance as the site of a prominent political protest in British history. In 1913, suffragette Emily Davison, advocating for women’s right to vote, was fatally trampled by King George V’s horse. A plaque commemorating the tragedy can be found at Epsom’s Tattenham Corner.
Groups such as Animal Rising and Just Stop Oil, analogous to the suffragettes at the time, are viewed by the government as potentially dangerous radicals. Responding to the current wave of direct action groups, the Conservative government has introduced stringent new legislation. However, Just Stop Oil has defied these measures by continuing their daily go-slow marches on major London roads, demanding an end to all fossil fuel development.
