But there are equally good, maybe even better, reasons to be against turtle races. First, they may be seen as exploitative of turtles, using them almost as wind-up, disposable toys for human entertainment. Second, they may result in the taking of turtles from the wild, which is nearly always ecologically harmful, and which is often illegal. Third, when captive turtles are put together in a race, diseases can be transmitted. Fourth, if a turtle is exposed to a disease during a race, and then released into the wild, the disease may spread to wild populations.
People are in no way encouraged to capture turtles from the wild for the race.
Pet turtles which are entered in the races are treated with respect. Pet turtles which are entered in the races are not kept in close quarters with one another before, during, or after the race, to avoid disease transmission. People are instructed to wash their hands after contact with turtles, and antibacterial soap is provided to facilitate good sanitation. All local and national laws are observed regarding which species and sizes of turtles may be kept in captivity. Educational materials are distributed about turtles in the wild and captivity, and no opportunity is missed to inform the public about the need for turtle and tortoise conservation.