Churchill Downs announces new safety initiatives in response to 'unusually high' horse deaths

Fox News Flash top sports headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on Foxnews.com.

Officials at Churchill Downs have announced new "safety initiatives" following a special meeting that was held in response to a wave of horse deaths at the famous racetrack that has totaled 12 since late April.

Track officials met with horsemen at the Trackside Training Center in Louisville on Thursday. The meeting resulted in a number of changes that will go into effect immediately, including restricting starts during an eight-week period, ineligibility standards based on poor performance, and pausing track-based incentives. 

Churchill Downs ahead of the 149th running of the Kentucky Derby on May 6, 2023, in Louisville, Kentucky. (Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

"The attending veterinarians and trainers at Churchill Downs are incredibly capable and knowledgeable," Dr. Will Farmer, equine medical director for Churchill Downs Inc., said in a press release. 

HORSE RACING OFFICIALS TO HOLD EMERGENCY SUMMIT OVER ‘UNUSUALLY HIGH’ NUMBER OF DEATHS AT CHURCHILL DOWNS

"We feel a duty to provide the latest information on surgical interventions from an expert who experienced the challenges in California a few years ago that we currently face today," Farmer continued. 

"Any decision must be made first and foremost with the long-term well-being of the horse in mind. It is imperative that all available, educated and informed options can be efficiently, confidently and thoroughly relayed to the owners." 

People react as they watch a race at Churchill Downs, May 6, 2023, in Louisville. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

The announcement comes days after the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority