In the wake of two more horse deaths at Saratoga Race Course this past weekend, the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority released new safety rules at the track for the remainder of the summer meet.
Post-entry screenings will now need to be conducted by an a HISA veterinarian. Previously, the screenings were done by a local veterinarian. The vet will check for any horses that may be at increased risk of injury before a race.
Also, members of HISA's Track Surface Advisory Group will be on site to again inspect both the dirt and turf surfaces at Saratoga Race Course before racing restarts on Wednesday.
"These steps are being taken to mitigate additional risk of equine injury in the short term as HISA continues to work with NYRA and the New York State Gaming Commission to thoroughly review the circumstances surrounding recent equine fatalities at Saratoga to inform additional interventions moving forward," HISA said in a statement Tuesday.
Patrick McKenna, vice president of communications for NYRA, said the racing association is strongly supportive of HISA's work to enhance safety and protect the integrity of the sport.
"NYRA welcomes additional veterinary scrutiny of horses at Saratoga Race Course and we are working closely with HISA’s Track Surface Advisory Group to ensure we are providing the safest possible environment for racing and training at Saratoga,” McKenna said.
A spokesperson for the state Gaming Commission said it "fully supports the HISA measures being put in place for the remainder of the Saratoga meet and continues to work closely with HISA and NYRA to protect horses and riders."
The developments come after Nobel and New York Thunder were both euthanized after breaking down on the track Saturday, the day of the Travers Stakes.
There have been 14 horse deaths this summer at the track, including eight in race deaths. The 2023 Saratoga meet concludes Monday.
The federal Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority is on site in Saratoga examining the safety of the racing surfaces ahead of racing resuming tomorrow. Additionally, horses will undergo post-entry screening by a HISA veterinarian. This is usually done by a local vet.
— Marisa Jacques (@MarisaJacquesTV) August 29, 2023