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Churchill Downs Moves to Keep Unsound Horses Off the Track

On Wednesday, Dennis Moore, a longtime California track superintendent, examined the racing surfaces at Churchill Downs and offered an independent analysis of the dirt and turf courses’ suitability for racing. His findings have not been released.

On Tuesday, Lisa Lazarus, the chief executive of the authority, said she was weighing whether to recommend to Churchill officials that they suspend racing to allow for further investigation. Lazarus was not available for comment.

Kentucky-based trainers and veterinarians also met on Thursday with Dr. Ryan Carpenter, an equine surgeon from California who briefed them on advanced interventions that could be considered for certain injuries.

“We feel a duty to provide the latest information on surgical interventions from an expert who experienced the challenges in California a few years ago that we currently face today,” said Dr. Will Farmer, the equine medical director for Churchill Downs Incorporated. “Any decision must be made first and foremost with the long-term well-being of the horse in mind.”

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