Data Driven Equine Safety Initiative Between HISA and AWS

Nov 07, 2023

Horseracing Integrity and Safety: A Data-Driven Leap Forward

Today, I’m delighted to discuss my two favorite topics: horse racing and technology.  The latest developments in the horseracing world underscores the potential for positive change when we introduce cutting-edge technology to the traditional world of horse racing.

The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) has embarked on a strategic alliance with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to spearhead an era of enhanced safety for equine athletes through the application of data analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence.

Let's discuss through the top three takeaways from this groundbreaking collaboration.

**1. Data Analytics: Unlocking New Horizons in Equine Safety**

Uniform reporting protocols established by HISA, encompassing track surface conditions and equine medication records, are now mandatory nationwide — a first in the sport's history. This wealth of data, analyzed through AWS's technological prowess, aims to illuminate the underlying causes of equine injuries. The commitment to using these analytical tools signifies a profound shift towards proactive welfare measures, as emphasized by HISA CEO Lisa Lazarus.

**2. Technological Frontiers: Crafting the Future of Equine Health**

In a recent collaborative workshop held in Nashville, industry experts, including Thoroughbred trainers and veterinarians, convened to identify technological interventions that could materially influence equine safety. The integration of sensor data from wearable technology and the analysis of vast amounts of performance and environmental data signals the dawn of a transformative period in equine care and track safety protocols.

**3. Pioneering Change: Toward Predictive Safety Measures**

The crux of this partnership is the development of an advanced analytics platform, which aims not only to test hypotheses regarding equine injuries but to furnish caretakers with predictive tools for injury prevention. Initiatives such as data standardization are already in motion, marking the initial strides towards a holistic and predictive approach to equine safety. AWS's Glenn Holland recognizes the profound potential of this collaboration to effect enduring, positive change within the sport.

As we look forward to the next steps, including an AWS-led Solution Workshop in New York, it's clear that this partnership is a win for every stakeholder who loves and cares for these awesome animals.

The goal is bold yet simple: to ensure that every time a horse sets foot on the track, it's in the best possible condition to race with integrity and safety.

You can see HISA's full press release here: https://hisaus.org/news/hisa-amazon-web-services-working-together-to-use-data-analytics-machine-learning-and-artificial-intelligence-to-reduce-equine-injuries#hisa--amazon-web-services-working-together-to-use-data-analytics--machine-learning-and-artificial-intelligence-to-reduce-equine-injuries