The famed Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby, has temporarily halted its spring/summer meet due to a series of heartbreaking equine fatalities. A dozen horses have perished at the facility in the last month alone, leading to a much-needed inquiry and safety assessment. Although races set for June 3rd and 4th will proceed, all races from June 10th onward will be relocated to Ellis Park, a fellow Kentucky track, for the duration of the meet (concluding July 3rd).
Both the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission and the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority are examining these passings but have not yet identified a singular reason or link. Churchill Downs is using this time to collaborate with specialists in the field to meticulously analyze all facets of safety and track conditions to guarantee the health of horses moving forward. As Churchill Downs CEO Bill Carstanjen expressed, the recent incidents are “highly irregular and simply intolerable.”
As we diligently investigate the root cause of the recent incidents at the racing facility, additional time is required to ensure accuracy. A comprehensive review of all aspects will be conducted to maximize the track’s safety. Ellis Park will maintain the elevated safety measures implemented at Churchill Downs previously this week. It’s important to acknowledge that, notwithstanding recent occurrences, the Kentucky Derby experienced unprecedented betting activity this year. The Kentucky summer racing season will commence at Ellis Park from July 7th and conclude on August 27th.