In the lead-up to the Kentucky Derby, the issue of equine safety in horse racing has come to the forefront once again. Recent incidents and revelations have raised concerns and cast a shadow over the prestigious event at Churchill Downs.

An alarming drug bust by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency has brought attention to the use of performance-enhancing substances in horses. The agency intercepted eight shipments of venom from snakes, scorpions, and spiders, which have been used as numbing agents for injured horses during races. These shipments originated from Mexico and were destined for individuals "with nexus to racing or other horse performance venues."

The discovery of these shipments serves as a reminder of the ongoing drug cloud that hovers over horse racing. Last year, a New York Times documentary titled "Broken Horses" highlighted the high number of equine deaths that occurred around the Derby period, including 12 deaths at Churchill Downs. These incidents led to an unprecedented shutdown and relocation of the track's spring meet.

In the midst of these safety concerns, efforts to clean up the sport have been ongoing. The establishment of the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) as a regulatory body has shown promising progress, although resistance persists in some quarters. While racetrack equine deaths have generally decreased over time, there was a slight rise last year from 1.25 per 1,000 starts in 2022 to 1.32 in 2023.

The Derby entries themselves provide context for the internal conflicts within the racing community. Trainer Saffie Joseph, who will be saddling Catalytic in the Run for the Roses, was involved in an incident last year where two of his horses died suddenly. Joseph was suspended and his Derby colt, Lord Miles, was not allowed to run. However, after a Kentucky Horse Racing Commission investigation, Joseph was reinstated, with the commission stating there was no basis to continue his suspension.

Another figure immersed in controversy is Clark Brewster, part owner of Derby runner Track Phantom and known as Bob Baffert's vocal lawyer. Baffert, the prominent trainer with a record-breaking seven Kentucky Derby wins, had his 2021 victory stripped due to a positive drug test by Medina Spirit. Baffert's subsequent clashes with Churchill Downs CEO Bill Carstanjen resulted in a two-year ban from competing in the Derby, which was later extended.

Churchill Downs has made substantial efforts to beautify the venue for the 150th Derby, investing $200 million in remodeling the paddock area. The dirt racing surface has also undergone renovations, with a darker and deeper track, as well as the implementation of new methods for testing and monitoring horses' wellbeing.

Amidst these changes, the safety of the horses remains the paramount concern. The revelations and incidents leading up to the Kentucky Derby have emphasized the need for accountability and stricter regulations to protect the well-being of these magnificent animals.

As the world eagerly awaits the 150th Kentucky Derby, all eyes will be on Churchill Downs to ensure that the event upholds the highest standards of safety and integrity in horse racing.