On May 6, 2023, during the running of the Kentucky Derby, a seventh horse named Freezing Point was euthanized after suffering an injury to his left front leg at Churchill Downs. This comes just 10 days after six other horses died at the track in the lead-up to the Kentucky Derby.
Freezing Point was a 3-year-old colt, and he was the second horse to die on the day of the Kentucky Derby, following Chloe’s Dream, a 3-year-old gelding. Freezing Point was running in the Pat Day Mile race when the injury occurred, and jockey Corey Lanerie pulled him up. He was then transported off the track in an equine ambulance and euthanized shortly afterward.
This tragic event is the latest in a string of horse deaths at Churchill Downs. Since April 27, a total of seven horses have died at the track, with five of the deaths occurring in the week leading up to the Kentucky Derby. Churchill Downs has averaged 25 horse deaths annually over the past five years, making this cluster of deaths unusual, but not altogether unexpected.
The safety and well-being of horses should always be the top priority in horse racing. While the sport can be exciting, it’s important to remember that these animals are living creatures and deserve to be treated with respect and care. The deaths of these horses are a tragedy and should be taken seriously by everyone involved in the industry. It’s crucial that we continue to strive for improvements in safety measures and protocols to ensure that horse racing can be enjoyed without such devastating consequences.
