Horsemen raise concerns about late scratches; plan to consult commission

Pat, speaking for the horsemen, thanked Emerald Downs and the Muckleshoot Tribe for purse supplements and track support and said the closing weekend card was strong. He warned, however, about an unusually high number of late scratches at the gate and said the horsemen intend to raise the issue with the racing commission for follow-up. "In fact, one day, I think we had 10 late scratches, and that was far and unusual for what we would ordinarily experience," Pat said.

Pat said the horsemen will work with the WHRC to understand why scratches happened and what can be done to prevent them in future meets. Commissioners acknowledged the concern and noted the commission and track management would need to examine medical and operational data to identify causes.