Delaware Park issues statement on equine fatality
Frank Vespe
July 6, 2026
In the wake of an equine fatality Saturday, Delaware Park issued a statement on social media July 5 saying it is “saddened by the loss of Splendid Song following [Saturday’s] last race” and maintaining that the track “conducted racing in accordance with… HISA protocols.”
Splendid Song, a three-year-old Yaupon filly, was towards the rear throughout the five-furlong turf allowance contest and was eased in the lane before being transported off the track in the equine ambulance. She did not survive.
This article contains affiliate links. If you click and buy, we may earn a commission at no extra charge to you.
Pick up reliable and rewarding tickets for major events!
Because of the severe heat that hit the Mid-Atlantic region this past week, Delaware had canceled racing Thursday and Friday. On Saturday, the track started the card at 10:00 a.m. in an effort to beat the heat.
Though temperatures topped 100 degrees later in the day, when this race went off just before 1:00 p.m., it was 87 degrees, according to the official Equibase chart. Another horse in that race, Sugar Bee, clipped heels and fell but got up and walked off.
Splendid Song had a first and a second from five career outings.
FULL STATEMENT
The safety and well-being of our horses, jockeys, staff and guests is our highest priority. Ahead of and throughout yesterday’s racing program, Delaware Park closely monitored weather conditions and conducted racing in accordance with the Horse Racing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) protocols, which included canceling races Thursday and Friday and adjusting Saturday’s post times to begin racing in the morning.
We are saddened by the loss of Splendid Song following yesterday’s race. Our thoughts are with the horse’s owner, trainer, jockey and everyone connected, as well as the broader racing community.
Pick up reliable and rewarding tickets for major events!
LATEST NEWS
