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Horse racing deaths in the United States increased slightly in 2023

Stock photo of a horse farm
pixabay.com
Stock photo of a horse farm

Horse racing deaths in the United States increased slightly in 2023 from 2022. 12 of those deaths happened at the home of the Kentucky Derby.

The report was complied from data tracked by the Equine Injury Database and reported by the federally mandated agency that began regulating the sport two years ago.

The Horse Racing Integrity and Safety Authority said in its report there were 1.32 deaths per 1,000 starts last year, up from 1.25 the previous year.

The number at the 50 HISA-accredited tracks had a rate of 1.23 per 1,000, compared with 1.63 at others across the country.

National Thoroughbred Racing Association president and CEO Tom Rooney said HISA has made great strides.

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Stan Ingold is WEKU's former News Director. He left the station in April, 2026.
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