Top Breeders' Cup Contender Practical Move Dies of Suspected Cardiac Event Belmont Stakes Winner Arcangelo Withdraws Due to Foot Issue

Santa Anita Park in California, known for previous safety concerns, witnessed the unexpected death of top contender Practical Move following a morning gallop, while Arcangelo was forced out of the race due to unresolved foot issue, marking a turbulent start to the Breeders' Cup.

Practical Move, a top contender in the Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile, died following a suspected cardiac event during a training session at Santa Anita Park.
Santa Anita Park has a history of safety concerns, with 42 horse deaths reported in 2019, and an increasing number of fatalities in 2023.
Belmont Stakes winner Arcangelo was withdrawn from the Breeders' Cup due to an unresolved foot issue, decreasing the number of competitors in the race.
Practical Move's death contributes to an alarming number of horse fatalities plaguing the horse racing industry in 2023, raising questions about safety protocols and practices at major racetracks.
Following recent fatalities, the Breeders' Cup organization pledged to strengthen safety measures for its human and equine athletes and continue efforts to improve the care surrounding every horse.