In light of 1/ST Racing's recent decision to discontinue the simulcast signal from Gulfstream Park and Santa Anita Park to Hipódromo Camarero, we wish to address the concerns raised and provide clarity on the welfare, safety, and aftercare of racehorses in Puerto Rico.
READ: 1/ST Racing Cuts Simulcasts to Puerto Rico Over Horse Welfare
Commitment to Horse Welfare and Safety
Hipódromo Camarero operates under strict government regulations for horse verification, medication control, and welfare, following protocols comparable to U.S. racetracks. A private veterinary clinic, managed by the Horse Racing Confederation, works alongside government veterinarians—all of whom are U.S.-educated, licensed, and accredited, with recognized experience in Puerto Rico and the mainland United States.
At Hipódromo Camarero, racing takes place year-round, which means we have a significantly larger number of active horses compared to jurisdictions with shorter racing seasons. Any statistics must be understood in the context of a 12-month operation.
For many years, Puerto Rico received horses from the United States that were already in the final stages of their racing careers. Instead of being retired at that time, many were sold to continue racing here—creating long-term challenges for our equine population, particularly regarding aftercare and end-of-care decisions.
Every euthanasia performed at our facility has a documented medical justification and can only be authorized by a licensed, accredited veterinarian—never by track management. These decisions are strictly clinical, based on the professional judgment of the attending veterinarian and are taken only when a horse has no reasonable chance of recovery or quality of life, in order to prevent unnecessary suffering.
It is important to note that the cited statistics are not accurate and, when taken without context, do not reflect the proportion of horses cared for, rehabilitated, and successfully retired from racing. In fact, the vast majority of our equine athletes continue to compete, recover from injuries, or transition to second careers in breeding, riding, or aftercare programs.
Racetrack Condition and Expert Evaluations
Since 2022, the Camarero Racetrack has undergone multiple technical evaluations by renowned experts to ensure safety and optimal conditions. These visits have included on-site inspections, sand analyses, planialtimetric measurements, and reviews of completed works, addressing both internal needs and requests from regulatory bodies and horse owners' associations.
In 2024, the Puerto Rico Horse Owner Association (PRHOA) filed a lawsuit (Civil No. 24-01194) against Camarero and others, alleging track condition issues and requesting their expert to inspect the track. In February 2025, Mr. John Passero, a racetrack specialist, along with Ing. Agr. María Alejandra Blanco, inspected the track and concluded it was in good condition, leading the court to dismiss the case.
Between 2022 and 2025, the track has been reviewed on average four times per year by experts such as Ing. Agr. María Alejandra Blanco, Dr. Michael "Mick" Peterson, and Mr. John Passero, producing technical reports that have supported continuous improvements and compliance with regulatory and legal requirements.
Significant Decrease in Euthanasias
We are pleased to report a significant reduction in euthanasias at Hipódromo Camarero. In 2025, euthanasias are 35% below the average of the past two years so far, demonstrating ongoing improvements in care, injury prevention, and rehabilitation efforts.
Furthermore, investment in medical treatment clearly demonstrates the commitment of our owners to keeping horses healthy and active: in 2024, 197 horses underwent surgery following injuries, and in 2025, 120 horses have already received surgical treatment. These cases highlight the priority placed on rehabilitation and proper care rather than premature retirement or disposal.
Addressing Misrepresentations and Industry Collaboration
While we have had differences with the Caribbean Thoroughbred Aftercare (CTA) regarding their selective acceptance of horses and limited capacity, we have always supported aftercare efforts. Unfortunately, negative public statements from CTA personnel have contributed to misunderstandings about our operations, discouraging some from collaborating with them.
Recognizing the importance of providing alternatives, this summer we launched an adoption program supported by volunteer veterinary students shadowing our private veterinarians to care for horses not accepted by CTA. We are also encouraging a second aftercare initiative operated by Siesta Alegre Inc. (Greg Jackson), expanding the network of options for retired racehorses.
Isolated Incidents and Enforcement of Animal Protection Laws
The cases highlighted by the CTA are isolated and often occur after horses have left Hipódromo Camarero. These instances are selectively publicized without acknowledgment of the many successful retirements and second careers for our horses. In situations involving severe mistreatment, the Department of Justice is called to press charges under Law #154 of the Puerto Rico Penal Code, which carries strict penalties for animal abuse.
Proactive Steps Toward Industry Standards
We have consistently demonstrated our willingness to work with industry partners. Several months ago, representatives from Hipódromo Camarero, the regulator, and the owners' association met at Gulfstream Park with their head veterinarian and compliance staff to review concerns and share accurate data about our horses. We remain open to further dialogue and partnership to improve protocols.
We are currently hiring a Compliance Officer whose responsibilities will include developing continuous education for owners and trainers, reviewing retirement procedures, recommending new regulations when necessary, and ensuring adherence to established protocols.
"Caring for our horses is our top priority, and we are committed to working with all industry to build a strong, transparent, and comprehensive aftercare network," said Ervin Rodríguez, president of Hipódromo Camarero. "Every horse deserves the opportunity for a safe and dignified life after racing."
Our Position Moving Forward
Hipódromo Camarero remains committed to transparency, collaboration, and the highest standards of equine care. We urge all industry partners to work together constructively to ensure that every horse—whether imported or native—receives the care, dignity, and opportunities they deserve both during and after their racing careers.
Blood Horse Editor's Note
Linked below are four BloodHorse stories related to horse welfare in Puerto Rico, including a 2021 news story from BloodHorse's Eric Mitchell that won an Eclipse Award in the news/enterprise category:
READ: Tracks Join Rallying Cry to End Cargo Shipping
READ: Puerto Rico Sets New Rules for Shipping Horses by Boat
READ: Puerto Rico Adopts Protocols to Curb Racehorse Neglect
READ: Sobie Keeping Aftercare a Focus in Puerto Rico
This press release has not been edited by BloodHorse. If there are any questions please contact the organization that produced the release.
