Safety First: Why Ground Conditions Matter for Elite Equestrian Athlete
The Steeplechase of Charleston presented by Lexus, originally scheduled for November 10, 2024, at Stono Ferry Racetrack, has been canceled this year due to unprecedented track conditions that would put our horse and jockey serious risk. The prolonged drought in our region has left the ground overly hard, dry and lacking suitable turf creating dangerous ground conditions for racing.
Let us explain why this decision, while difficult, was absolutely necessary for safety. Our recent measurements revealed alarming ground conditions. Think of PSI (pounds per square inch) as a measure of how hard or soft the ground is – like testing the firmness of a mattress, but for a racetrack. For safe racing, we need the ground to have some “give” or cushioning, similar to how a running track feels springy under your feet.
For perspective: ideal racing conditions measure between 90-110 PSI – this provides the perfect balance of firmness and cushioning for the horses. At 130 PSI, the ground is considered firm but still raceable. At 140 PSI, it’s deemed hard and concerning. Our current measurements show the track at over 170 PSI – essentially turning our racing surface into something closer to concrete than a proper racing track. These rock-hard conditions pose an unacceptable risk to equine athletes.
What does this mean in everyday terms? Imagine running at full speed on a cushioned track, then suddenly hitting concrete – that’s what our horses would experience on the current track surface. The exceptional drought we’re experiencing (less than three inches of rain since September) has created ground conditions that could cause serious injuries to both horses and riders.
Even more concerning, our track experts have determined that even if we receive rain before the event, it wouldn’t be enough to create the proper cushioning needed for safe racing conditions. The underlying compaction is simply too severe.
Race Director Toby Edwards emphasizes that while canceling is heartbreaking, the alternative – risking career-ending injuries to our athletes – is unthinkable. These aren’t just horses and jockeys to us; they’re elite athletes who deserve the safest possible racing conditions.