Amidst Troubling Incidents, Equestrian Professional Takes Charge as Safety Steward for Racetrack Oversight

Sports involving animals often come under scrutiny for breaches of ethics and unfair handling methods. Falling into this category, the equestrian community is not exempt from close scrutiny. The community has found itself embroiled in several controversies involving negligence and providing conditions that can lead to accidents.

Thus, extending their hand towards reducing the occurrence of unfortunate events and providing a healthy environment for everyone involved, the renowned Kentucky Horse Racing Commission has announced its recent measures. By bringing on board an equestrian enthusiast with a commendable presence in the industry, KHRC looks forward to adhering to safety provisions.

KHRC Appoints Safety Steward to Elevate Safety Standards

On the 5th of September, the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission announced its decision to create a new position of safety steward. This move was made to ensure compliance with both the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) and KHRC standards and rules. The extended measure is designed to monitor all licensed Thoroughbred racetracks and training centers falling under their jurisdiction. To fill this role, the commission has appointed Beth Bungert as the safety steward.

Jamie Eads, the executive director of the KHRC, stated that the role suits Beth remarkably well, considering her knowledge of the operations at the Racing Commission. Furthermore, Bungert secured the position due to her long-time presence as a horsewoman and her commitment to the safety of the sport.

“This position is the culmination of a career on the racetrack. I have been involved in almost every aspect of racing and look forward to bringing those experiences together for the safety of both horse and rider,” said Bungert according to Paulick Report. Beth Bungert, an equestrian, has been acquainted with the community for almost 20 years. She has established her presence through her previous roles as a groom, an exercise rider, a veterinary assistant, an assistant trainer, a racing official, and, finally, a program director at several Kentucky racetracks.

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The move by the KHRC has received an appreciative nod from both the equestrian community and the general audience. This comes as the industry has previously witnessed damaging occurrences.

Equestrian Community Grapples with Mistakes

Popular racing tracks have often witnessed horse racing accidents. While most of these might be accidents, there have been instances when the race track was at fault. Following this perspective, two of the venues have previously faced public scrutiny for improper maintenance and safety guidelines.

In late April this year, the MJC-led races at Laurel Park saw tragic accidents just 35 minutes apart. While one of the horses tossed down its rider, they had to put down the other due to the persisting dire situation. The incidents led the group to suspend further races and implement strategies concerning the racing and training related mortality among horses. Another incident occurred at the Manitoba Rodeo this past month as an equine collapsed a few moments out the gate. The actual shocker hit the spectators when there was no sign of an on-ground veterinarian or proper medical equipment.

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The incidents just stand among several others that remain to be noticed. The negligence and disorder have called for appropriate measures and monitoring. Thus, with KHRC’s implementation, the equestrian community puts out a sigh of relief though the step is minute.