Hit Zero Owner Defends Care After Horse's Death at Laurel Park

Justin Horowitz, owner of the three-year-old racehorse Hit Zero, expressed confidence in the care his horse received before its sudden death at Laurel Park in Maryland. The colt, named after his daughter Bailey’s cheerleading term for a perfect routine, died shortly after finishing last in his debut race on Black-Eyed Susan Day. Jockey Sheldon Russell reported that the horse appeared to run out of energy during the six-furlong opener. Shortly after the race, Horowitz received a call informing him that Hit Zero had collapsed from a suspected cardiac event and could not be saved by veterinary staff. A necropsy is scheduled to determine the exact cause of death. Despite the tragedy, Horowitz stated he does not question the training or medical attention provided by trainer Brittany Russell, who had carefully managed the horse’s development over 19 months. The incident occurred while Laurel Park served as the temporary venue for Maryland’s signature racing events due to redevelopment at Pimlico Race Course. The story highlights the emotional impact on Horowitz’s family, particularly his young daughter, who witnessed the event.