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The horse racing industry contributes $122 billion to the US economy. The long echoes along the tracks date back to decades when thrill and excitement packed the race tracks. However, the industry has been grappled with a serious concern—horse injuries. Not only do these concerns jeopardize the races but also question the welfare authority overlooking the equine life.

This year in particular put the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) on the news concerning horse casualties. Acting on the matter, a recent update was shared by the sports body to establish a major step towards minimalizing the cause.

HISA partners with promising technology

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A report by Paulick Report states that HISA partnered with Palantir Technologies, a Colorado-based big data company. Using artificial intelligence, the strategic partnership hopes to develop a data-enabled tool that can recognize horses who are susceptible to injury even before entering the race. It means the at-risk equine lives can be prevented while each runner duo will be screened before stepping on the tracks.

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CEO of HISA, Lisa Lazarus, said, “This powerful, AI-enabled tool will streamline and automate a process that had previously taken significant time away from veterinarians’ hands-on care of horses.” Lazarus further stressed on HISA’s dedication adding, “HISA continues to work with leading partners like Palantir to utilize data and technology in its mission to reduce equine injuries and fatalities.”

Not long back, California’s proactive’y prohibited steroid fetlock injections within 30 days of races before the HISA Act. The safety body’s plan to prolong the stand-down period is consistent with California law, underscoring the commitment to the safety of horses in horse racing. Another case that grabbed the equestrian community’s attention earlier this year was the death toll in Kentucky’s iconic racetrack.

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Racetrack closed over the HISA’s probe

Numerous racetracks were on the verge of closing and schedule changes over tightening grip from the community over disheartening viral videos of horses collapsing. Events like the closing of Churchill Downs after several horse deaths highlight how urgent it is to put strong safety measures in place. This was also followed by an update on canceling future events over a ‘bizarre’ update.

READ MORE Equestrian World Witness Classic Sire Takes Center Stage in Special Showcase: Here Are the Full Details

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The smart collaboration of HISA will bring about a revolution in the horse racing industry as the 2024 season draws near. This change will bring about increased safety, fewer injuries, and a renewed emphasis on the welfare of the magnificent animals that make this sport truly remarkable.

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