Del Mar is a racetrack in California that hosts a variety of horse races. It is one of the most popular horse racing tracks in the United States, and has been in operation since 1937. The track is owned and operated by the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club and is located in Del Mar, California. The track is known for its beautiful scenery and its exciting races.
What is the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club?
The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club is the organization that owns and operates the Del Mar racetrack. It is a private, non-profit corporation that is responsible for the running of the track and the racing events. The club was founded in 1937, and is dedicated to promoting the sport of horse racing. The Club is also responsible for setting the rules and regulations of racing, and ensuring the safety of the horses, jockeys, and other participants.
Del Mar Horse Racing Events
Del Mar hosts a variety of horse racing events, including the well-known Breeder’s Cup. The Breeder’s Cup is an annual event that showcases the best in thoroughbred horse racing. Other events include the Del Mar Handicap, the Pacific Classic, the Bing Crosby Stakes, and the Del Mar Derby. Del Mar also hosts a series of four-day events, known as the Del Mar Festival of Racing. These events feature some of the best racing in the world, and attract some of the biggest names in the sport.
How Many Horses Die at Del Mar?
Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for horses to die while racing at Del Mar. In 2019, a total of six horses died while racing at the track. This is a small number compared to other tracks in the United States, but it is still a tragedy. The deaths are usually due to injuries sustained during the race, or due to preexisting health conditions. The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club takes great care to ensure the safety of the horses, and works closely with veterinarians to monitor the health of the horses.
Safety Protocols for Horses at Del Mar
The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club takes the safety of its horses very seriously, and has implemented a number of safety protocols to ensure the wellbeing of the horses. These protocols include:
- Veterinary supervision: Every horse that races at Del Mar is examined by a licensed veterinarian before and after each race.
- Injury recording: All injuries sustained by horses while racing are recorded, and the horses are monitored closely by the track’s medical staff.
- Track maintenance: The track is inspected regularly, and any problems are addressed immediately.
- Drug testing: All horses are tested for prohibited drugs before and after each race.
Causes of Death for Horses at Del Mar
The causes of death for horses at Del Mar vary from case to case. The most common causes of death are:
- Injuries: Horses can sustain a variety of injuries while racing, and sometimes these injuries can be fatal.
- Exhaustion: Horses can become exhausted during a race and succumb to heat stroke or dehydration.
- Heart failure: Horses can suffer from heart failure due to the stress of racing.
- Illness: Horses can become ill due to a variety of causes, and the illness can be fatal.
Preventing Horse Deaths at Del Mar
The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club is committed to preventing horse deaths at the track. The Club has implemented a number of initiatives to ensure the safety of its horses, including:
- Veterinary oversight: The Club works closely with veterinarians to monitor the health of its horses.
- Safety protocols: The Club has implemented a number of safety protocols to ensure the wellbeing of the horses.
- Education: The Club provides educational materials to its participants to help them understand the risks associated with horse racing.
- Research: The Club funds research projects to improve the safety of its horses.
Conclusion
The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club is committed to the safety of its horses and takes great care to ensure the wellbeing of the animals. While it is unfortunate that six horses died while racing at Del Mar in 2019, the Club is working hard to reduce this number. By implementing safety protocols and educating its participants, the Club is doing its part to ensure that horse deaths are kept to a minimum.
References
Chandrasoma, A. (2019, August 9). Breeder’s Cup: A preview of the world’s most prestigious horse race. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2019/aug/09/breeders-cup-world-prestigious-horse-race
Del Mar Thoroughbred Club. (n.d.). Del Mar Thoroughbred Club. Del Mar Thoroughbred Club. https://www.dmtc.com/
Kestenbaum, D. (2019, February 6). At Del Mar, a race against time, and sometimes death. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2019/02/06/sports/horse-racing-del-mar.html
Race Track Safety. (2020, April 7). California Horse Racing Board. https://www.chrb.ca.gov/racetrack-safety/