NTRA safety panel accredits Delaware Park

The National Thoroughbred Racing Association's Safety and Integrity Alliance has given full accreditation to Delaware Park in Stanton, Del., the association announced Wednesday.

Delaware Park is the fourth racetrack to be fully accredited by the alliance, which was formed late in 2008 to address concerns about the public's perception of racing's commitment to safety measures following several high-profile breakdowns. To be fully accredited, tracks must meet a list of requirements involving rules, equipment, and participation in national data-gathering projects.

According to the NTRA, Delaware was accredited following its completion of a 48-page application, an on-site review in April, and meetings with alliance officials. The track was not initially accredited after the first review because it first needed to create several written policies, according to the association.

Participation in the accreditation program is voluntary. The NTRA said that it expects all 55 tracks that are NTRA members to apply for accreditation.

Earlier this year, Churchill Downs, Keeneland, and Belmont Park were fully accredited. Pimilico Race Course in Maryland received provisional accreditation because of the lack of several rules that have to be passed with the help of state regulators.