Outriders

These experienced horsemen and horsewomen are stationed around the track every day to carefully monitor training and racing and provide protection for horses and riders. They are the first responders when a horse and rider need assistance.

Race track warning system

Keeneland uses a dual lights and siren warning system activated to alert riders in the event of a loose horse during training, a failure to remove the starting gate during a race or other incident that may require halting a race.

Immediate response to injured horses and riders

Keeneland works with the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission Equine Medical Director to execute protocols and communication following a catastrophic equine injury. Keeneland has a detailed plan in place to respond quickly with help to an injured horse and/or rider during training and racing.

Kimzey Equine Ambulance

Two of these specially designed ambulances for horses are stationed just off the race track and are able to quickly reach a horse that is injured or needs a precautionary ride back to its barn. The ambulance also will transport the horse to nearby Hagyard Equine Medical Institute or Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital, two of the world’s leading equine veterinary facilities.

The Kimzey Ambulance features a hydraulic system that allows the rear of the vehicle to lower to the ground so the horse can more easily walk aboard. Padded walls can be adjusted to hold the horse comfortably in place during transport. Traveling on each ambulance is a veterinarian and three members of Keeneland’s track maintenance crew.

Safety padding on starting gate

Keeneland’s starting gate and training gate are lined with a thick rubber material produced by Equine Environmental Consulting Inc. (formerly Best Pad Safety Solutions). The padding protects the horse and reduces the impact if a rider’s leg is caught between the horse and the metal structure.

Safe footing

Walkways to the track through the Paddock, Walking Ring and Tunnel as well as the Winner’s Circle are made of rubber pavers. The pavers reduce slippage and are more forgiving on horses’ hooves than harder surfaces.

Keeneland Safety Committee

Keeneland has established a safety committee that meets weekly during live race meets (and as necessary during the off-season) to discuss concerns, find solutions and create and review protocols. The safety committee comprises Keeneland management and staff representing racing, track maintenance, mutuels, security, communications, broadcast, outriders, the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission and the Jockeys’ Guild.