LOUISVILLE, KY. (THECOUNT) — Kenny McPeek Stables exercise rider, Odanis Glg Acuña, died in a Saturday morning training accident at Churchill Downs.
Acuna, 42, suffered fatal injuries while breezing unraced 2-year-old New York Harbor around 5:45 a.m. Saturday, local reported said.
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Officials said the colt fell as it neared the finish line. Daily Racing Form Marty McGee reported that the horse broke down in both front legs. source
Kenny McPeek spoke out on Twitter of the tragic accident: “We are all sick and saddened by the loss of such a good man in Odanis Acuna. We are working on all details to help his wife and children. There will be a Go Fund page soon.”
“Today is a somber day,” Churchill Downs Racetrack President Kevin Flanery said. “We extend our deepest sympathy to Odanis’ family, friends, colleagues and the entire team at trainer Kenny McPeek’s barn. Our hearts are with them in this difficult time of extreme sorrow.”
This was first known training accident at Churchill Downs that resulted in the death of an exercise rider in several decades, according to veteran horsemen and track officials.
A moment of silence will be observed at approximately 12:30 p.m. in Acuna’s honor prior to Saturday’s first race at 1 p.m.
Funeral arrangements, a memorial service and fundraising efforts for the family are pending.