Muted crowds return to Churchill

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — Four days after filly Eight Belles broke down and was euthanized after finishing second in the Kentucky Derby, muted crowds returned to Churchill Downs.

The track reopened for racing on Wednesday. Most patrons said they were sad about the filly's death and felt for trainer Larry Jones, but were not sure the sport needs a major overhaul.

Frank Daniels has attended races at Churchill Downs for 35 years. He's witnessed more than a few horses put down on the track after being injured, and considers Eight Belles' death an accident. Daniels doesn't think the track should switch surfaces from dirt to synthetic until there's more evidence to support it.

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