Cristian Torres, Walter Rodriguez, and Martin Garcia were hospitalized following a multi-horse accident during the second race at Churchill Downs on September 19. Out of the ten 2-year-old horses running the 6 1/2-furlong race, six did not complete it, according to the Equibase chart.
Cody Autrey, agent for Torres, informed the Paulick Report that Torres was experiencing back pain but it was not believed to be serious.
The crash seemed to begin when Torres’ horse, Lutkenhaus (number 9), who was in second place on the far turn, collapsed. Track announcer Travis Stone reported that Shacklebolt (2) with Rodriguez, Steve Wood (4) and Garcia, and Ritornello (8) with Francisco Arrietta also fell or lost their riders. The Equibase chart further indicates that Industrious (5) with Keith Asmussen and Midnight Rumble (6) with Axel Concepcion fell while trying to avoid fallen horses.
Onsite medical staff at Churchill Downs cleared Asmussen, Concepcion, and Arrietta, though Asmussen chose to scratch his mount from the final race.
Lutkenhaus, owned by Team Valor and trained by Rodolphe Brisset, suffered a severe injury to his left front leg and was humanely euthanized after assessment by the track veterinarians, explained Dr. Will Farmer, Equine Medical Director for Churchill Downs Incorporated.
Dr. Farmer provided these additional updates:
- Industrious was transported to trainer Steve Asmussen’s barn and treated for a left front leg injury.
- Shacklebolt, trained by Eoin Harty, had cuts on his right hind leg but was able to walk off the track before being taken to the Receiving Barn.
- Steve Wood’s mount and Ritornello, trained by Donnie K. Von Hemel and Matt Williams respectively, both sustained minor abrasions and returned to their barns on foot.
- Midnight Rumble, under Joe Sharp’s training, was caught by an outrider and walked back to the barn area.
The second race was delayed for about 30 minutes afterward and was ultimately declared a no-contest.
Further updates will be provided as more information emerges.
Originally published by Paulick Report on September 19, 2026.
Fan Take: This incident is a sobering reminder of the inherent risks in horse racing and underscores the importance of rigorous safety protocols for both jockeys and horses. For fans, such events can deepen appreciation for the sport’s bravery and resilience while pushing the industry to continually improve welfare standards.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
