The 2024 Saratoga racing season, a period often marred by safety concerns in previous years, has ended with commendable improvements in equine safety and management practices. This season witnessed a significant reduction in equine fatalities, with only one racing-related fatality and two during training, a stark contrast to the nine racing-related and four training fatalities recorded in 2023.
Dave O’Rourke, President and CEO of the New York Racing Association (NYRA), cited by Daily Racing Form, expressed satisfaction with the progress, noting: “This has been one of the safest meets since I’ve been here in terms of numbers, and you’re seeing continual progress.”
The 2023 meet was notably affected by adverse weather, leading to less than optimal decisions regarding the use of the turf course and the death of no less than 12 horses. This year, the NYRA implemented more conservative strategies, promptly moving races off the turf to better accommodate weather conditions. These measures have played a crucial role in enhancing the safety and integrity of the races.
The introduction of mandatory pre-race veterinary examinations, a policy implemented last fall, has been pivotal. NYRA’s chief veterinarian, Dr. Sarah Hinchliffe, and her team have been instrumental in these improvements. O’Rourke praised their efforts, stating: “All the credit to Sarah and her team, I think they’ve done a phenomenal job…In terms of their decision process, I’m hands off.”
Financial and Operational Success
Despite challenges such as frequent weather interruptions which led to the cancellation of one racing card and numerous turf races being moved to dirt, the season was financially successful. The total handle reached $803,806,964, a slight increase from the previous year and the third highest in Saratoga‘s history. Average daily handle also saw a rise, amounting to $20,610,435.
Attendance figures were robust as well, with total attendance nearly matching the previous year at 1,051,092. The slight decrease in daily attendance figures did not dampen the spirits, as O’Rourke remarked on the premium quality of the meet: “In terms of handle per day, this is still the premium meet in the country.”
Looking forward, the NYRA is exploring the introduction of a synthetic Tapeta track at Saratoga to maintain race continuity during inclement weather. While replacing one of the turf courses with Tapeta is a significant consideration, O’Rourke emphasized the importance of careful study before making such a decision. He also mentioned the potential for adding a synthetic surface inside the Oklahoma turf training course to provide additional training options during bad weather.
For the 2025 season, Saratoga is expected to retain its 40-day schedule, with potential expansions in horse racing dates. The final week of the Belmont at the Big A spring/summer meet might also see races being held at Saratoga, enhancing the racing calendar leading up to the Belmont Stakes scheduled for June 7, 2025, at Saratoga.
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