Update on Backstretch Barn Fire at Saratoga Casino Hotel Harness TrackInvestigation Remains Ongoing Following Loss of 17 Horses SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (June 16, 2026) — Saratoga Casino Hotel and the Saratoga Harness Horsepersons Association are providing an update regarding the barn fire that occurred at approximately 2:30 a.m. this morning in the backstretch area of the harness racetrack. Officials have confirmed that 17 horses perished in the fire. The barn housed a total o

"This is a sobering day in our industry, a horseperson's worst nightmare. We express our deep condolences to all impacted and thank all emergency responders and track workers for their quick response." Henry Westbrook, Jr, President Saratoga Harness Horsepersons Association. "This tragic loss is a reminder this can happen anywhere. My heartfelt condolences go out to all impacted. Thank you to all first responders local and state for your prompt response. We must work to lear

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tuesday, June 16, 2026 8:41 am Fire at Saratoga Casino Hotel Harness Track Claims Seven Horses Cause of Fire is Under Investigation SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (June 16, 2026) — Saratoga Casino Hotel and the Saratoga Springs Fire Department report that a fire broke out in a barn located in the backstretch of the harness racetrack at approximately 2:30 a.m. this morning. The barn, which housed approximately 18 horses, was completely destroyed by the fire. Des

Racing is cancelled Tuesday, June 16, 2026.

Starting on Monday, June 15, regular qualifiers will be held on Mondays for the remainder of the meet. Post time 9:30. Baby Races will be conducted on Tuesday, June 16, 23 & 30. Post time 9:30.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS NOMINATION FORMS AVAILABLE This year the following Directors’ terms will expire December 31, 2026: Brian Cross William (Bill) Grass John Hoagland, Jr Michael (Mickey) McGivern Henry Westbrook, Jr Mark Whitcroft If you are interested in running for a seat on the SHHA Board of Directors, you must be a current SHHA member in good standing and willing to attend monthly meetings, special meetings and donate your time to various committees. You m

The main track will close at 10 a.m. on the following Thursdays for 2-year-old schooling. It will remain closed after schooling for infield maintenance. May 14th May 21st May 28th

Brett's surgeries are in his past and he is home recovering. The Beckwith family thanks everyone for their prayers and support. Knowing Brett, he will be in the bike as soon as possible.

Section 902 of the New York State Racing, Pari-Mutuel Wagering and Breeding Law requires the Commission to assess the projected deficit of the racing regulation account to racetracks and horsemen. As a result of the assessment, effective 5/1/2026 , the starting fees will increase from $29 to $42. This reflects an increase from $19 per start paid to Morrisville (for the drug testing deficit fund) to $32 per start. The $10 fee paid to the NYSGC will remain the same.

Platinum AS repeats in Saratoga Open – U.S. Trotting News

https://www.drf.com/news/saratoga-harness-upstate-new-york-track-claims-handle-crown

Thomas McTygue was a past president of the Saratoga Harness Horseperson’s Association, Inc. (SHHA) and a long-time horse owner and harness racing advocate. This scholarship is given in his memory. The SHHA’s Thomas McTygue Scholarship is given to a graduating high school senior pursuing a two or four-year degree and who is a member of the SHHA, or whose parent, guardian or relative is a member in good standing of the SHHA. The SHHA member must have had a prior year and a

THE WASH STALL DRAINS ON THE HILL DRAIN TO A SINGLE MAIN WHICH IS CURRENTLY FROZEN SOLID. ROTO-ROOTER WILL NOT BE ABLE TO CLEAR THIS UNTIL TEMPERATURES RISE AND REMAIN FOR A LONG PERIOD OF TIME SO THE MAIN CAN THAW. TRAINERS CAN BATHE HORSES IN THE PADDOCK. TRAINERS MUST CALL MAINTENANCE IN ADVANCE AT 518-581-5752 AND LEAVE A MESSAGE STATING WHEN AND HOW MANY HORSES THEY ARE GOING TO BATHE, SO PLUMBERS CAN KEEP THE PADDOCK DRAIN PIPES CLEAR. HORSEMEN AT THEIR BARNS O

If ownership transfers are not completed at time of entry, the entry will be refused. Saratoga Casino and Raceway

This coming week there will be 2 days for qualifiers. Draw will be Sunday for Monday, and Monday for Tuesday. Qualifiers begin at 9:30am. After that they will be held on Tuesdays with limited availability. Saratoga Casino and Raceway.

Gary “Leo” F. Leonardi, 70, husband of Tarja Butcher, of Perth, NY suddenly passed away Monday January 26, 2026. Born June 15, 1955, in Albany, NY. He was the son of the late Frederick Leonardi and Jeanne Burhans Leonardi. Gary attended Colonie Central High School and graduated in 1973. Gary dedicated his life to and was a passionate and successful standard bred horse trainer. Gary kept himself busy with many projects. Gary’s spare time was spent taking care of his meticulous

Charles Henry Harrison, 81, of Stillwater, NY, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family, on January 26th, 2026. Born on December 25, 1944, in Saratoga Springs, NY, he was the son of the late Henry Charles Harrison and Edna Mae Carleton. A lifelong resident of the Saratoga area, Charles—known to most as “Chuck”—was deeply rooted in his community and its traditions. After graduating from Saratoga High School, Chuck proudly served in the United States Coast G

Due to the storm, the draw schedule for Sunday and Monday cards will be on Thursday, January 29. The Tuesday card will be drawn on Friday, January 30. The race office will officially open on Tuesday, January 27.