“Mage’s Winning Gallop Stuns in the 149th Kentucky Derby”

On May 6, 2023, the 149th Kentucky Derby took place at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. This is the first leg of the famous Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing. The race was won by Mage, a three-year-old, chestnut colt trained by Gustavo Delgado, who was ridden by jockey Javier Castellano. This victory was the first for Castellano in 16 attempts. The heavily favored Forte was scratched from the race due to a bruised right front foot. Mage finished ahead of Two Phil’s, who came second, and Angel of Empire, who finished third. Mage only had one victory in three career starts prior to the Kentucky Derby, and this win increased his chances of achieving the elusive Triple Crown.

Seven Horses Died in the Lead up to the Kentucky Derby

The Kentucky Derby is known for its excitement, but this year’s race came with a tragic prelude. Horse racing enthusiasts were shocked to learn that seven horses had passed away leading up to the Derby. Tragically, two more horses were euthanized on the day of the race due to injuries they sustained while competing in races earlier in the day. Churchill Downs reported that each incident was unique and that the track surfaces are closely monitored to maintain their integrity. Every horse that races at the track undergoes multiple veterinarian exams and observations to ensure their fitness to race.

Churchill Downs Will Work to Improve Safety and Integrity

Churchill Downs has stated that it will work “actively” with the Kentucky Horseracing Commission and the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority to investigate each incident and find out if there were any underlying causes. The company has also stated that it is committed to safety and integrity and remains proud of the Kentucky Derby’s enduring legacy. The track has pledged to continue to improve the safety of the sport.

PETA Speaks Out Against Horseracing Safety Standards

The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has condemned the deaths, calling Churchill Downs a “killing field.” The organization suggested that instead of playing “My Old Kentucky Home” before the race, they should play “Taps” as a tribute to all the horses lost. PETA believes that the horse racing industry needs to recognize the danger it poses to the animals and take a step back to look at the costs of their sport.

Conclusion

The Kentucky Derby is a long-standing tradition and has been a part of American culture for over a century. With its prestige comes a responsibility to uphold the highest safety standards possible for the horses. The recent incidents leading up to the Derby are a wakeup call for those in the industry to take action and find ways to ensure the safety of the horses. The upcoming Triple Crown events provide the perfect opportunity to reevaluate the measures taken to promote horse safety, and we hope Churchill Downs and all those involved in the sport will take advantage of this chance to make a positive change.