Dirt or synthetic? It’s an old question being brought to new light as recent studies show how the two types of racing surfaces can affect a horse’s well-being.
Just days after being identified as one of the deadliest horse racing tracks in the United States, Churchill Downs introduced a number of safety measures that it says it will begin incorporating this year.
An ambitious experimental study was conducted to compare ground reaction forces and hoof accelerations among dirt, synthetic and turf racetracks. Force measuring horseshoes and accelerometers were attached to the front hoof of three Thoroughbred racehorses, and each horse was exercised at the trot and canter on each surface while an onboard computer recorded the data.
While the jury is still out on how well synthetic surfaces are really working, most everyone in the racing world seems to recognize that they’ll play an even more critical role in future horse racing.
While Thoroughbred trainers are unhappy with the ban on high toe grabs at California racetracks, there’s scientific research to back up claims that high toe grabs can result in serious injuries.
American Farriers Journal is excited and honored to celebrate its 50th anniversary of publishing the hands-on magazine for hoof-care professionals. Learn more about our special edition, which comes out in December 2024.
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