Churchill Downs Horse Deaths Investigation Yields No Clear Cause

Seven Horses Died in the Span of a Week Leading Up to the Kentucky Derby, and Two More Passed Away on Derby Day

The investigation into the deaths of horses at Churchill Downs during the Kentucky Derby has found no singular cause. The deaths of 12 horses in the days surrounding last year's Derby have led to existential questions about the sport and its future.

Investigation into Churchill Downs Horse Deaths Finds No Singular Cause

The investigation into the deaths of horses at Churchill Downs during the Kentucky Derby has not yielded a clear cause for the fatalities, according to a report released by the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission. The report, which was conducted by the University of Kentucky's Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, found that there were no commonalities among the horses that died, and that the deaths were likely due to a variety of factors, including exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH), heart failure, and colic.

The report also found that there was no evidence of any foul play or negligence on the part of Churchill Downs or its staff. The commission has recommended a number of changes to the way that horses are trained and raced at Churchill Downs, in order to reduce the risk of future deaths.

The deaths of 12 horses in the days surrounding last year's Kentucky Derby have led to existential questions about the sport and its future. Some critics have argued that the sport is too dangerous and that horses are being pushed too hard. Others have defended the sport, arguing that it is a safe and humane way to enjoy the beauty and athleticism of horses.

The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission is currently considering the recommendations of the University of Kentucky's Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory. The commission is expected to make a decision on whether to implement the recommendations in the near future.