The horse racing industry is taking bold steps just as Thoroughbred horse racing undergoes significant changes in the U.S. for the better.
With the launch of “Safety Runs First,” the National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) aims to highlight the progress being made throughout the industry on equine safety and care. The campaign focuses on education for the public and illustrates a substantial commitment to improving the safety and welfare of racehorses across the board.
“The ‘Safety Runs First’ campaign will be a key part of our sport’s commitment to transparency and accountability as we continue to strive for ways to create the safest environment possible for racing,” said NTRA President and CEO Tom Rooney in a press release from April. “This is an evolution of a program the NTRA launched last fall but with substantial additional reach and resources, thanks to NTRA member organizations.”
Changes can take time, years to even decades, but Safety Runs First displays significant safety investments that industry leaders have made to see lasting improvements in the sport. This includes the implementation of uniform, national rules crafted by the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority and the introduction of innovative technologies, setting new standards for horse care.
The campaign also highlights advanced data analysis, new veterinary protocols, enhanced track surface maintenance, and several other measures that will lower risks and elevate the welfare of racehorses.
Educational Outreach and Broad Engagement
Education is, of course, a cornerstone to Safety Runs First as many of the key changes taking place throughout horse racing often go without recognition or understanding. This is why there was no better time to launch the campaign than during the height of the horse racing season, leading up to and through the 2024 Triple Crown.
The “Safety Runs First” campaign was launched April 23, only weeks ahead of the first leg of the Triple Crown, the Kentucky Derby, on May 4, which was the most watched Derby since 1989 with 16.7 million viewers.
To connect with these viewers, the campaign uses various traditional and social media channels to share messages and updates from within the industry. These include national and regional broadcasts on TV and radio and digital and social media throughout the year to raise awareness of a growing and continued focus on equine welfare.
Although the campaign was launched in the lead-up to the Triple Crown, which saw the Preakness Stakes May 18 and concluded with the Belmont Stakes June 8, the commitment is long-term. Plus, the effort reflects the industry’s dedication to educating the public about its evolution and intensified focus on equine safety.
Backed by Collaboration
Another important aspect of Safety Runs First that allowed it to develop into an influential part of horse racing is that it is backed by collaborative efforts across the horse racing industry.
It was created through a collective approach with the NTRA, its member organizations, and other stakeholders. The support the industry has for it ensures that there is effective implementation and transparent communication of new safety protocols and innovations.
It also enables the initiative to align with the introduction of stricter regulations and cutting-edge technologies such as AI and data analytics, which are significantly transforming the landscape of equine care, thereby fostering a safer and more accountable environment for all involved.
The Safety Runs First campaign is supported by the NTRA and all of its members.
Monitoring Advancements and Beyond
The positive effects of these substantial investments are already visible. A decline in equine injuries and fatalities demonstrates the effectiveness of the newly implemented safety measures.
This has been accomplished through ongoing assessments and sophisticated data applications that aid in the early identification of at-risk horses, enabling proactive measures that potentially prevent them from unnecessary training or racing.
Although significant progress has been made, the journey toward achieving the highest levels of safety and integrity in racing continues, with educational efforts and procedures consistently being refined and expanded.
Safety Runs First is more than just a temporary initiative — it is shaping the long-term trajectory of Thoroughbred racing in the United States.
As the campaign progresses, it remains essential for all involved — from dedicated racing enthusiasts to casual fans — to stay informed about the measures being deployed to ensure the safety of every horse, on the track and beyond.
For more information about the Safety Runs First campaign and ongoing efforts to ensure equine safety, visit www.safetyrunsfirst.com.
