In a breakthrough demonstration of its predictive power, StrideSAFE—a wearable sensor used on all horses racing in Kentucky -identified a high risk of injury in a stakes-level Thoroughbred trained by Dale Romans before any clinical signs were visible, allowing the horse's connections to act before disaster struck.
The warning came after StrideSAFE data showed a sharp increase in right front limb risk over the horse's two most recent races. Although the barn veterinarian found no outward lameness or inflammation, Romans pursued advanced imaging based on the technology's findings.
PET scans, confirmed by two separate leading equine hospital teams, revealed changes in the right front sesamoid bone that posed a serious injury threat. The horse is now resting for 90 days and is expected to return to training after a follow-up scan confirms healing.
"We would never have discovered this issue if it weren't for StrideSAFE," said Dale Romans, the horse's trainer and president of the Kentucky HBPA. "This technology worked exactly the way it's supposed to—it gave us information we couldn't get any other way, and it likely saved this horse's career, if not its life."
StrideSAFE is available to every trainer racing a horse in Kentucky at no cost to them. The lightweight sensor system collects biomechanical and motion data during the race. The technology uses AI algorithms based on data from over 50,000 race runs and is designed to detect subtle changes in stride and loading patterns that may indicate elevated injury risk—often before visible symptoms emerge.
"This event is exactly why StrideSAFE exists," said company founder Dr. David Lambert. "It's about prevention, protection, and giving trainers, veterinarians and owners the best information possible. We're proud to see it making a difference."
Trainers interested in receiving their reports are encouraged to contact StrideSAFE General Manager Greg Pachman at g.pachman@stridesafeusa.com.
