While the council’s post includes 21 rules and regulations for racers, Animal Commissioner Alison Bezzina informed the council that there were a number of issues with the event from an animal health and safety perspective.

Among the issues she found were the roads themselves, the time of the event and nearby amenities including water and shade for the horses.

“In principle The Office of The Commissioner for Animal Welfare is against this practice because tarmacked roads are not ideal for horses to race on. In addition, CAP 439.22 prohibits karozzini from being on the road between July and August between 1pm and 4pm,” she told the council.

“Though legally this might not strictly apply to horse racing, the principle of Animal Welfare and the spirit of the law should be applied to all horses. The ideal place for such races to occur are the horse racing track which provides the best conditions and safety measures for the horses and audience.”

She went on to note that easy water access, no traffic and shady areas for the horses needed to be ensured as well.

However, the Local Council has yet to announce any changes to the event, though it was unable to obtain approval from the Animal Commissioner – which it needs to get permission to do the event.

Maltese festi and related celebrations have adapted to more modern animal health and safety laws; recently, the Mnarja feast changed details from their event – including the times of their horse racing event – after being advised to by the Animal Commissioner.

Cover photo left, Gozo Horse Races, right, Paul Scicluna

Should traditional horse races be allowed to go ahead during peak summer hours on Maltese and Gozitan roads?