The 149th edition of the Kentucky Derby was marked by tragedy, as 12 horses died in the days surrounding the historic race. Two horses died on the same day as last year’s race, sparking concerns about the safety of horse racing. Jockey Mike Smith emphasized the importance of safety in the sport, noting that more work needs to be done to prevent such incidents. Data from the Equine Injury Database and HISA showed a slight increase in horse deaths in the US in 2023 compared to the previous year.
A review of 14 horse deaths at Saratoga last summer did not provide a definitive cause for the incidents, although heavy rainfall may have played a role. Investigations by Churchill Downs and HISA did not identify a common cause for the deaths surrounding the Kentucky Derby. In response to the tragedies, Churchill Downs made several changes to its safety program, including upgrading equipment used on the track and adding an equine safety and integrity veterinarian to help enforce rules.
The track implemented increased testing to measure safety and consistency of the dirt surface, with measures in place to monitor moisture content and track conditions. Hall of Fame trainer D. Wayne Lukas praised the changes to the track, noting that horses were performing well on the new surface. Additionally, all horses racing at Churchill Downs now wear StrideSAFE biometric sensors to detect changes in their gaits and potential signs of injury, and a PET unit for diagnostic imaging has been installed.
HISA, the sport’s new governing body, took effect in July 2022 to establish national safety standards at racetracks, replacing the previous patchwork of state rules. The organization’s antidoping and medication control program began in late May 2023, after the last year’s Derby and Preakness. These measures aim to improve the overall safety and integrity of the sport and prevent future tragedies like those seen at the Kentucky Derby. The Associated Press contributed to the report on this issue.
