Keeneland racecourse in Kentucky has decided to scrap its synthetic polytrack surface and return to racing on traditional dirt.

The removal of the synthetic Polytrack and installation of a "state-of-the-art" dirt track and draining system is expected to begin May 19 and will be completed by August 15.

The track will re-open for training on September 1.

"Keeneland’s mission is to provide the highest level of racing possible, and in order to accomplish that goal going forward, a dirt surface is preferable," Keeneland President and CEO Bill Thomason said.

"This dirt track will be a ‘next-generation’ surface, the most extensively researched and most sophisticated in North America.

“We believe that with the new materials and research available to us today we can build a world-class dirt track that is as safe as our synthetic surface for horses and riders. Their safety absolutely remains our top priority.

"This is not a decision that we have undertaken lightly.

“From the outset of the synthetic surface installation in 2006, we have always said that this is a journey and not a destination.

“The racing landscape has changed, and for that reason we have an obligation to our horsemen and to our fans to evaluate where the industry is going.

"Owners and trainers, especially those who compete at the highest levels of the sport, overwhelmingly prefer dirt tracks.

“In keeping with our mission and the quality that is expected of Keeneland, we have to be more competitive in attracting the top horses and Triple Crown and Breeders’ Cup contenders and in hosting major racing events."

Keeneland’s five-furlong training track will not be converted from Polytrack.