The New York Racing Association (NYRA) will implement Race Day Security Barns
for all horses scheduled to race, beginning on May 4, the opening day at Belmont
Park. The program will be duplicated at Saratoga and Aqueduct later this year.
Two barns at Belmont Park — Barn 8 and Barn 23, which have a total of 93
stalls — will be used to provide a secure environment for all horses entered
for competition. Once admitted, only the trainer and his employees will be
allowed in the stall with the horse. No private veterinarians will be allowed in
the Race Day Security Barn.
NYRA veterinarians will administer Lasix, an anti-bleeding medication.
Horse must arrive in the Race Day Security Barn a minimum six hours prior to
their scheduled race. NYRA security will fully staff each Race Day Security Barn
beginning at 6 a.m. (EDT) to allow for early arrivals. Security checks will be a part
of the daily routine with the added support of surveillance equipment and
fencing around the entire area.
Trainer David Donk is one of many members of the racing community supporting
the program.
“I am pleased that NYRA is stepping up to the plate and taking this
initiative,” Donk said. “Obviously, I am for it because this is the future of
racing. Eventually, I think the future is a 24-hour security barn with a camera
in every stall. This is for the betterment of racing and a great day for both
the $2 bettor and the serious gambler.”