Churchill Downs is looking to a safer future after a challenging year for horse racing in 2023, and the data indicates that it is headed in the right direction. Racing deaths decreased at the 47 HISA-regulated tracks, according to the Horse Racing Integrity and Safety Authority’s (HISA) 2024 annual report, which was made public in March. The fatality rate decreased from 1.23 deaths per 1,000 starts the previous year to 0.9 fatalities per 1,000 starts. In contrast to the seven horse deaths Derby Day reported in 2023, Churchill Downs reported six horse deaths for the year. Last year’s surge in fatalities led to close investigation and even the suspension of racing at the renowned event.
Churchill Downs responded by investing more in safety. Horses now race with stride sensors to track performance and possible injury risks, while track maintenance and surface testing have been improved. The track intends to use sophisticated PET scans in 2025—nuclear imaging that can more precisely and earlier identify injuries. “This year, we are concentrating on the science and technology aspect,” a track representative stated. “We think these tools can assist in detecting minor injuries before they become disastrous.” However, the racing industry has yet to identify the precise cause of the sharp increase in fatalities in 2023. Some critics contend that it is challenging to identify problems since horses move between tracks across states in a temporary manner.
Industry leaders think technology could help them achieve the zero fatality objective, despite the unknowns. According to one expert, “we just need to figure out how to adapt advanced technology to Thoroughbred racing.” “We just need to figure out how to do it.”
