In San Diego's Pacific Beach, PB Shore Club's longstanding tradition of weekly goldfish races has come under fire from animal rights activists. Protesters argue that the events, where patrons use straws to propel goldfish through water-filled gutters, subject the fish to unnecessary stress and potential harm. Justice Owens, founder of Bold Activists for Animal Liberation, stated, "It's tormenting them. It's torture for these fish."

Despite the protests, PB Shore Club continues to host the races, with participants defending the practice as harmless fun. Regular attendee Alex remarked, "The fish here last for weeks; they keep them in a goldfish tank and are fed every day." However, activists remain steadfast, planning weekly demonstrations until the events cease, emphasizing that goldfish are sentient beings deserving of humane treatment.

Goldfish, often perceived as simple pets, can live up to decades under proper care, challenging the notion of their disposability in entertainment settings.