Alcohol, cigarettes, and recreational drugs are everywhere. There’s no question that across broader society, segments of the population are more prone to drinking and smoking than others – but is the racing industry one of those pockets? Are these vices more prevalent amongst our participants than elsewhere? Our numbers say yes on some counts and no on others. Meet a handful of horsemen — some of whom have dealt with these issues first hand – who strongly believe that our industry, despite the hours and the pressure and the tight-knit community (or perhaps because of these things) is no different from any other. By Kim French and Kim Fisher