Horse Fatalities Overshadow This Year’s Kentucky Derby

As the track prepares for the Run for the Roses, the death of two horses trained by Saffie Joseph resulted in his ‘indefinite’ suspension’

Kentucky Derby contender Verifying during a morning workout at Churchill Downs. Michael Reaves/Getty Images

LOUISVILLE, Ky.—As Churchill Downs prepares for Saturday’s 149th running of the Kentucky Derby, a familiar uneasiness has settled over the horse-racing industry after an abnormal string of horse fatalities at the historic track over the past week has renewed concerns about the safety and welfare of racehorses.

Since April 27, at least four known horse deaths have occurred on track here under the famous twin spires. 

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