Eight horse deaths in October due to leg fractures have led the Maryland Jockey Club and Stronach Group to cancel racing and workouts at Laurel Park December 3 through 5.
It was Nov. 28 when the 2-year-old American Playboy broke down in a race that finally led to the decision to have the dirt main track examined.
The Stronach Group, which owns and operates the track, halted racing in April to allow for an emergency rebuild of the racing surface. The project took most of the summer and cost a reported $3.5 million. Maryland racing was held at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore during that time.
But on Dec. 2, the MJC issued the following press release:
“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.”
According to a story in the Baltimore Sun, trainers had been concerned about the lack of a track cushion as the weather got colder.
More from Canadian Thoroughbred:
