Practical Move, a Breeders’ Cup contender and Santa Anita Derby winner, has died after a ‘cardiac event.’ The horse was also a previous Kentucky Derby favorite, but was unable to race due to a fever. Practical Move’s rider was not injured during his horse’s collapse.
Arcangelo, a Belmont Stakes winning horse, also recently pulled out of the Classic after dealing with a hoof issue. Jena Antonucci became the first female trainer to win a Triple Crown race with Arcangelo, which also led to her becoming a brand ambassador for Daily Racing Forum.
Earlier this year, Churchill Downs had to suspend racing activity after a high number of horse fatalities in May. A safety review allowed racing to resume in August. Regulators on the National Council of Legislators from Gaming States (NCLGS) agreed that horseracing, its safety and its “technological options” would be topics of discussion at its winter meeting on January 3.
Antonucci said, “From day one, we will always be horse first, no matter what.” Her horse, Arcangelo, was the only winner of the Triple Crown scheduled to race in The Classic, but will be retiring.
Geaux Rocket Ride was also seriously injured at Santa Anita. The horse had surgery, but his racing days are over, as owners say the colt is “fighting for his life.” In mid-October, filly Echo Zulu also required surgery after a career-ending injury at Santa Anita.
The Breeders’ Cup is scheduled to take place November 3 and 4. FanDuel TV will stream all but one of its events.
