Issues of Horse Racing

As a dedicated member of the Thoroughbred Racing Industry, there is a shared passion among individuals for the horses and a collective desire to see the sport not only survive but thrive for future generations. However, it is crucial to address the many challenges facing the industry today. Open dialogue about these issues, proposing solutions, and working together to create a healthier environment for the sport are essential.

A recent entrant in the industry, still within the first decade of their stable’s journey, has actively engaged in industry initiatives, although with mixed levels of acceptance. This commitment to increased participation begins with a letter addressing a pressing issue primarily in Kentucky but also present nationwide.

Over the past weekend, the frustration of having a horse scratched at the gate by a Kentucky Regulatory Veterinarian at Ellis Park was experienced. While the well-being of horses remains the primary concern and any decision made for their health is supported, regulatory veterinarians need to provide detailed feedback on their observations when scratching a horse. In this instance, vague comments such as "he looks off" or "she doesn't look right" left trainers and owners without clear understanding.

In the past year, several regulatory scratches have occurred with minimal explanation of the veterinarian’s visual observations leading to these decisions. Private veterinarians have consistently found no issues, supported by X-rays and scans. Specific insights from state veterinarians are needed to take appropriate measures and ensure horses are fit for racing. It is urged that the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (KHRC) implement standard practices for transparent and detailed communication from regulatory veterinarians following decisions to scratch horses.

Another concern is the process of being placed on and removed from the Vet's List. The horse scratched over the weekend, despite having no identifiable issues, now faces a lengthy process to return to racing. State rules require a two-week waiting period before the horse can work, additional examinations, and several bureaucratic hurdles—all for a horse deemed healthy by a private vet. This convoluted procedure is in contrast to industry best practices and requires urgent reform.

While this issue is focused on Kentucky, it is relevant nationwide. A unified set of rules could streamline these processes significantly, an approach supported as part of the Horse Racing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) initiative.

The importance of these matters lies in the sustainability of participation in the thoroughbred industry. Following the recent scratch, frustrations were voiced on social media, highlighting the increasing difficulty of succeeding amid these challenges. Although not a large owner, significant resources are invested in the yearling market and beyond. As the industry landscape and purse structures shift, evaluating the viability of continued investment is necessary.

As a result, a decision has been made not to purchase any yearlings at the upcoming fall auctions. However, commitment to current horses remains, and training and racing operations will continue. While involvement in the industry is ongoing, a close watch will be kept on how these issues develop, with reassessment as needed.

In the meantime, advocacy for the necessary improvements within the industry will continue, ensuring that horses receive the opportunities they deserve, and that voices are heard.