A fire that broke out in a sprawling barn near the grandstand at the Goshen Historic Track on Wednesday evening (Aug. 23) drew 75 firefighters from 16 platoons.

With local Good Samaritans and workers acting quickly, all 10 of the horses stabled in the barn were guided to safety. Tim Masters, facilities manager at the Historic Track, who personally led some of the horses away from the flames, said none of the horses were injured.

Fire officials said no humans were hurt either in the three-alarm fire, a smoky blaze that could be seen for miles around Goshen.

"We are grateful for the quick and effective job performed by our local fire departments, which came to our rescue and prevented tremendous tragedy for both GHT and our community at large," said Steve Jones, president of the Goshen Historic Track Board of Directors in statement on Thursday. "Their response saved numerous other structures.

"We would like to express our gratitude to everyone who helped remove the horses from the stalls and ensured their safety, specifically Candyce Conroy, Kristy Nehrkorn and Tim Masters, just to name a few.

"All the horses were saved and there was no loss of life.

"We will be working with fire officials regarding cause and carefully reviewing all of our structures to ensure their safety. Our facility is located in the middle of downtown Goshen, and our goal is to improve and maintain this historic facility for our community and the horsemen who support GHT."

The national historic landmark is now looking at rebuilding the barns affected by the blaze, not covered by insurance. Portions of the barn, adjacent to the Boces barn, and the historic blacksmith shop had to be completely demolished.

Those looking to help can make a donation of any amount directly to: Goshen Historic Track, 44 Park Place, Goshen, NY 10924. PayPal address is [email protected].

All donations are tax deductible as allowed as Goshen Historic Track is a 501(c)3 organization.

For more information on how to help, please contact [email protected] or call 845.294.5333.

Gifts in kind (harness, feed, etc.) or gift cards to Big Dee’s, L & B Tack, Finn Tack, Tractor Supply, etc., are also needed and greatly appreciated to help the horses and horsemen and women devastated by this tragic event.

(with files from USTA)