“If finalists in the Kentucky Derby and other major races had pre-race standing CT scans assessed by a panel of skilled reviewers, would that have had an impact on what happened last year?” asks Muir. “Based on extrapolations from what we’ve learned so far from the Melbourne Cup, I think it would.”

As the industry continues to endure public scrutiny regarding equine health and welfare, particularly when a cluster of deaths occur, racing advocates and veterinarians alike are starting to question whether it makes sense anymore to delay mandatory pre-race screenings, using standing CT or similar technologies, until more comprehensive evidence exists.

“If you are a racing authority or racetrack owner, I think it would be imprudent to ignore the increasing scrutiny and pressure that comes from negative public perceptions of the sport,” says Muir. “Our existing knowledge has evolved quickly over the last few years, and although we still have a way to go, I think a lot of people are really starting to take notice what’s been happening at the Melbourne Cup.”