Kentucky Derby organizers implement more safety measures after last year’s string of deaths at historic track

The 149th edition of the Kentucky Derby was overshadowed by the deaths of 12 horses in the days surrounding the race at the historic track. Two horses died on May 6, 2023 — the same day as last year’s race.The deaths came at a time when the sport of horse racing traditionally draws the most attention. But, last year’s tragic series of events at Churchill Downs left many in tears and raised questions about the safety of the sport.”You can’t ever be too safe when it comes to our sport,” jockey Mike Smith, a two-time Derby-winner said. The number of deaths in the US increased slightly…