Echocardiograms Can Detect Early Signs of Sudden Death
A study by the University of Minnesota and the University of Pennsylvania retrospectively examined ECGs of 11 horses that died from exercise-associated sudden death (EASD). Among four horses wearing ECG monitors at the time of death, three had atrial fibrillation leading to malignant arrhythmia; one had variations culminating in death during recovery. Another horse exhibited atrial fibrillation during its last recording and died nine days later.
The findings suggest ECG monitoring during training can identify cardiac rhythm issues warranting further investigation.
"Three of four horses monitored at death showed atrial fibrillation leading to malignant arrhythmia."
Air Pollution Impairs Racehorse Performance
In collaboration with The Jockey Club, researchers analyzed air quality 21 days before races and winning speeds. Horses exposed to higher pollutant levels had slower winning speeds, decreasing by 0.044 meters per second compared to those with lower exposure. This indicates air quality is a factor in race preparation, particularly in urban areas, and improving barn ventilation may be beneficial.
Individual Farms Influence Foal Weight
A 10-year Argentine study examined birth month, birth year, and farm effects on Thoroughbred yearling weight at 18 months. There was significant farm-to-farm variation, with a 26.4 kg difference between lightest and heaviest farms. July-born foals were heavier than November-born ones, and annual climatic variations affected weight. Management practices on each farm impact foal growth.
"Farm management practices can create a 26.4 kg difference in yearling weight."
Fetal Loss Causes in New South Wales Broodmares
A study aimed to identify causes of fetal loss in Thoroughbred mares in New South Wales. Among confirmed cases, infection caused 54% of losses; non-infectious causes (e.g., umbilical cord occlusion) accounted for 46%. Fetal loss incidence peaked from June to August, with Chlamydia psittaci responsible for most placentitis-related losses, peaking in 2016. Breeders should review management to reduce infection risk and monitor late-stage pregnant mares closely.
Trainer Quality More Predictive Than Yearling Price
Conor Banaham of the Economic and Social Research Institute, Dublin, studied whether yearling auction prices predict performance. Cheaper horses placed with better trainers outperformed more expensive horses with less successful trainers. While price generally reflects ability, trainer assignment significantly influences outcomes, but results are not guaranteed.