Gulfstream Park has made changes to the run-up distances before races at 1 1/16 miles and 1 1/8 miles on the main track, with the adjustments being effective immediately. The modifications were made in response to jockeys’ requests for more distance before entering the clubhouse turn, aiming to enhance safety for horses and riders. The changes will impact races such as the Grade 2 Fountain of Youth, Pegasus World Cup, and Florida Derby.

The new run-up distances added by Gulfstream Park are intended to address the disadvantage of drawing outside posts for races at 1 1/16 miles and 1 1/8 miles. Bill Badgett, the executive director of Florida racing operations at Gulfstream, explained that the adjustments were made to provide jockeys with more space to travel before entering the clubhouse turn. The changes are expected to make the races safer for both horses and riders.

The Grade 2 Fountain of Youth, which offers Kentucky Derby qualifying points, will be among the races impacted by the new run-up distances at Gulfstream Park. Other significant races like the Pegasus World Cup and Florida Derby, both run at 1 1/8 miles, will also be affected by the changes. The modifications are aimed at improving the overall safety and fairness of races at these distances.