In a recent investigation conducted by the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA), 12 horse fatalities at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, were examined. The findings of the investigation revealed that there was no direct causal relationship between the deaths and the track itself. However, concerns were raised regarding the increased risk for certain horses due to the frequency and cadence of their exercise schedules.
Churchill Downs, famously known as the site of the Kentucky Derby, witnessed the unfortunate deaths of 12 horses earlier this year. This prompted HISA to launch an investigation in order to determine the causes of the breakdowns, prevent further injuries, and establish whether conditions at the renowned track played a role in these fatalities.
Despite the absence of a direct link between the horse deaths and the track surface, the investigation shed light on the potential risks associated with certain exercise and racing schedules. This was determined by analyzing the training histories of the affected horses, with veterinary expert Susan Stover noting that all 12 horses had participated in more races during their careers than the average racehorse.
The investigation also involved an examination of the track conditions by racetrack expert Dennis Moore. After several days of analysis, which included assessing factors such as cushion depth, moisture content, surface grades, and material composition, Moore discovered that the relevant metrics remained consistent with previous years. This indicated that the track surface itself was not directly responsible for the catastrophic injuries suffered by the horses.
Furthermore, the report delved into the location of the injuries on the racetrack, hoping to identify any patterns. However, no discernible pattern was found, providing no insightful information to deepen the understanding of the causes.
In addition to the physical examinations, necropsies were performed by Dr. Alina Vale, with the aim of identifying any specific patterns or causal factors. Vale’s analysis revealed that there was no identifiable pattern in the reports that pointed to a single cause of the fatalities. It was also confirmed that no prohibited substances were found in any of the 12 horses.
Following the completion of the investigation, HISA recommended several improvements to Churchill Downs to enhance track surface testing and maintenance, as well as better tracking and reporting of injuries. These recommendations have been shared with the track, and Churchill Downs has already implemented several of them, along with additional safety measures.
The resumption of racing at Churchill Downs is scheduled for September 14, as the recommendations provided by HISA have been taken into account to prioritize the safety of the participating horses. Darren Rogers, senior director of communications at Churchill Downs, expressed gratitude for the diligent investigation and analysis carried out by HISA, emphasizing the track’s commitment to equine safety as their highest priority.
As the investigation into the 12 horse fatalities at Churchill Downs concludes, the findings suggest that the track itself may not be directly responsible for the tragic deaths. However, concerns surrounding the exercise and racing schedules of certain horses have been identified as potential contributing factors. Moving forward, increased attention will be paid to track surface testing, maintenance, and injury monitoring to ensure the safety and well-being of racehorses at Churchill Downs and beyond.
