A devastating barn fire on the backstretch at Saratoga Casino Hotel claimed the lives of 17 Standardbreds early Tuesday morning, June 16.
Saratoga Casino Hotel and the Saratoga Springs Fire Department have reported that a fire broke out in a barn located in the backstretch of the harness racetrack at approximately 2:30 a.m. on Tuesday morning.
The barn, which housed a total of 18 horses, was completely destroyed by the fire. Saratoga Casino Hotel reported on Tuesday afternoon that officials have confirmed 17 horses perished in the fire. The horses belonged to two trainers who stabled their horses in the barn. Trainer Robyn Mangiardi lost 11 horses, while trainer Timothy Benson lost six horses. One horse escaped the barn and sustained minor injuries. No human injuries have been reported.
Firefighters responded promptly to the scene and worked to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to nearby structures. Security personnel from both Saratoga Casino Hotel and the nearby Saratoga Racecourse, along with emergency responders, acted quickly to evacuate horses from neighbouring barns and secure the surrounding area. Approximately 350 horses are typically housed in the backstretch.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the appropriate authorities.
“Our thoughts are with the horse owners, trainers, caretakers, and all those affected by this tragic loss,” said John Matarazzo, Director of Racing Operations at Saratoga Casino Hotel. “We are grateful for the swift actions of our security, nearby NYRA personnel, and the Saratoga Springs Fire Department, whose efforts helped save numerous horses and ensured there were no injuries to people on site.”
"This is a sobering day in our industry, a horseperson's worst nightmare," said Henry Westbrook Jr., President of Saratoga Harness Horseperson's Association. "We express our deep condolences to all impacted and thank all emergency responders and track workers for their quick response."
"This tragic loss is a reminder this can happen anywhere," said Supervisor Sarah Burger, Counsel for Saratoga Harness Horseperson's Association. "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 learn the cause and do everything in our power to ensure this does not happen again."
Live harness racing has been cancelled for Tuesday at the track.
Saratoga Casino Hotel will hold a memorial service to honour the horses lost in the fire. Details regarding the service will be announced at a later date.
Further updates will be provided when available.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the connections of the horses lost in the barn fire.
(With files from Saratoga Casino Hotel & Saratoga Harness Horseperson's Association)
RIP to all these Beautiful…
RIP to all these Beautiful Horses. Condolences to all who lost and loved them