The Maryland Jockey Club suspended live racing as of December 2 while repairs to the track surface is being done. Training on the main dirt track was suspended on Monday, November 29 while officials investigated recent equine injuries at the track.
According to the Thoroughbred Daily News, seven horses have died due to injuries sustained on the track since November 6 of this year. The most recent death occurred on November 28.
Alan Foreman, an attorney who represents the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association, said most of the “red-flag cluster of fatalities” occurred near the middle of the homestretch. He was quoted as saying, “If there is a short-term remedy, then we’ll try to implement a short-term remedy. If it’s a longer-term issue, we’ll have to address all of those factors.”
Below is the official press release from the Maryland Thoroughbred Horseman’s Association.
LAUREL PARK TO CANCEL LIVE RACING FROM DECEMBER 3 – 5
Laurel, MD (December 2, 2021) – The Maryland Jockey Club today announced the cancellation of racing at Laurel Park through Sunday, December 5, as work continues to complete repairs to the track and to analyze recent equine injuries. While racing is suspended, the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association and the Maryland Jockey Club are working with industry experts to analyze surface composition and maintenance procedures directed at the safest possible racing surface. Until now, and through collaborative measures among industry participants, Maryland racing has experienced the lowest fatality rate in its history. The safety, health and welfare of equine athletes is the primary responsibility of all stakeholders in Maryland and must be taken seriously. The Maryland racing industry remains laser focused on this problem and collectively pledges to do whatever is necessary to ensure that Maryland’s historic racing industry remains world-class.
For more information on the Maryland Jockey Club at Laurel Park, visit www.laurelpark.com or follow on social @MarylandJockeyClub.
