Loud music from a sound system at a nearby casino led to the cancellation of racing at Aqueduct on Sunday. NYRA officials blamed the organizers of an auto and bike show at Resorts World Casino for the cancellation, citing unpredictable sound levels and safety concerns for horses and riders. This was the second time in less than six months that a distraction from the casino caused racing to be called off at Aqueduct.
Trainers and stable staff reported that the music was so loud it caused the ground to vibrate, prompting someone to call the police. The police turned off the music, but it was turned back on later. This incident adds to the stress and expense of training horses in New York, with one trainer calling for compensation for owners and trainers on days when racing is canceled.
Once Belmont Park is rebuilt and reopened, NYRA is expected to abandon the Aqueduct property. NYRA officials are working with the New York Thoroughbred Horseman’s Association and the New York State Gaming Commission to determine next steps and how to make up for the lost racing opportunities. Horse Racing Nation was awaiting a response from Resorts World regarding the incident.
