The National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) is prepared for “every potential outcome” on Preakness Stakes (gr. I) day, but no matter the result, developments in the area of equine health and welfare in the coming weeks and months are of the utmost importance, the organization’s president and chief executive officer said.

A few days before the May 17 Preakness, Alex Waldrop said he believes the Thoroughbred industry responded appropriately in the wake of the breakdown of Eight Belles in the gallop-out after the May 3 Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I). The NTRA worked behind the scenes on crisis management and handled numerous media inquiries.

Waldrop confirmed the NTRA board of directors, which met May 9, got feedback from individuals outside the horse racing industry.

“We have consulted with experts who have worked with other sports like Major League Baseball and NASCAR, and we are preparing for any eventuality,” Waldrop said. “Our hope is that we come out of this weekend preparing for a possible Triple Crown winner, but we’re seriously preparing for every potential outcome