Photo:

Woodbine / Michael Burns

During the 12th race Saturday at Woodbine, Flawless Ruler sustained an apparent leg injury and was vanned off the track. The horse was immediately examined by Alcohol and Gaming Commission-licensed veterinarians at the barn, where it was determined that the injuries were too severe for a full recovery. As a result, Flawless Ruler was humanely euthanized.

After a thorough investigation of the incident, the AGCO-licensed veterinarians concluded that the injury was unlikely to be a result of track conditions.

With the concurrence of the AGCO and communication with the Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association and the Jockeys’ Guild, it was decided that training would proceed as scheduled Sunday morning.

Because of safety concerns with track conditions last weekend that led to the cancellation of two races on Saturday and Sunday’s entire race card, Woodbine and its Tapeta consultants worked extensively to improve the track conditions and returned it to optimal condition for safe training and racing. Following the approval of the AGCO, Woodbine resumed racing on Thursday, which continued on Friday and Saturday.

Jockey Keveh Nicholls was unharmed during the incident.