The 2023 Belmont Stakes, won by Arcangelo, marked a historic moment for trainer Jena Antonucci. She is the first female trainer to claim a Triple Crown title. The loss of horses’ lives this racing season almost overshadowed the milestone.
Two horses lost their lives due to catastrophic injuries sustained during races following the highly anticipated Belmont Stakes.
Excursionniste, a horse that led at the quarter-mile mark and was in second place during the 13th and final race at Belmont Park, suffered a devastating injury to its left front leg and was euthanized.
The following day, Mashnee Girl also suffered a catastrophic injury to her left front leg during a race at Belmont, leading to her untimely euthanasia.
According to the AP, Excursionniste is the third and Mashnee became the fourth horse to die at Belmont Park this year.
Churchill Downs suspended operations through the end of the Spring Meet schedule leading up to and during the Kentucky Derby where 12 horses died at the racetrack. And another horse died the morning of the Preakness Stakes. Along with the two losses at Belmont.
