Prior to the 8th race on Sunday, June 26, a horse on the track for post parade was spooked, bolted and lost its rider. The horse careened into a fence, injuring a nearby trainer.
“We are deeply saddened by the incident that occurred on Sunday,” said Tom Valiquette, chief operating and financial officer of the Fort Erie Live Racing Consortium. “Our thoughts are with the trainer and his family, and all those involved in the incident.”
The trainer was taken to Erie County Medical Centre in Buffalo with critical injuries.
The horse, four-year-old Just Like David, also sustained critical injuries from the incident and was euthanized.
“Safety is always a priority, for our patrons, staff and our equine athletes,” continued Valiquette. “Injuries are very rare. This is the first serious incident at the Fort Erie Race Track since the Fort Erie Live Racing Consortium assumed operations in January, 2010.
“I commend our staff and the onsite EMS team for their quick and professional management of this situation, as well as all emergency services for their prompt response.”
The 8th and final race of Sunday’s card was cancelled, as was training on Monday morning. Training will resume on Tuesday, June 28. Live racing will continue as scheduled on Tuesday as well.
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