Last week, I witnessed firsthand the career-saving and even life-saving potential of the StrideSAFE sensor technology–and I feel a responsibility to share what happened.
A stakes-level horse in our barn was flagged by StrideSAFE after showing a dramatic rise in injury risk in the right front leg over its two most recent races. A barn exam by our veterinarian showed no obvious lameness or inflammation. But based on the compelling StrideSAFE data, we took the next step and scheduled advanced imaging.
The PET scan results–confirmed by two separate equine hospitals–showed changes beginning in the right front sesamoid bone that indicated a serious injury was imminent. This horse is now resting for 90 days and is expected to make a full return to training pending a clean recheck. Without StrideSAFE, we wouldn't have caught it.
As both a trainer and president of the Kentucky HBPA, representing more than 6,000 owners and trainers, I believe this moment is a turning point. This wasn't theory or promise–this was proof. StrideSAFE did exactly what it was designed to do. It helped us protect a valuable athlete and likely prevented a catastrophic outcome.
StrideSAFE data is available to all trainers racing horses in Kentucky simply by emailing them to get connected with your confidential reports. They can explain the process and are always available to answer any question you or your veterinarian might have and even provide more detailed information following a concerning report or pattern. Contact them at g.pachman@stridesafeusa.com.
Change isn't always easy in horse racing, but when a tool works this well to keep our horses safe, we owe it to them to pay attention.
Sincerely,
Dale Romans
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