Aqueduct: Enhanced security for Wood Memorial horses

Horses competing in Aqueduct’s upcoming $1 million Wood Memorial on April 5 will be subject to out-of-competition blood testing for banned substances, be required on the grounds by April 2, and are subject to 24-hour monitoring at their trainers’ own barns and stalls on the grounds, the New York State Gaming Commission announced.

“The major New York prep race for the Kentucky Derby will be run with the utmost integrity and focus on equine health and safety,” said Robert Williams, the acting executive director of the gaming commission. “These enhanced security measures are an extra step of protection for all parties in racing to ensure a level and safe playing field.”

Among a number of protocols:

◗ Wood entrants must be on the grounds by noon Eastern on April 2, with any exceptions at the discretion of the stewards.

◗ Security personnel will monitor all treatments performed by veterinarians, and all containers for medications administered will be retained for possible testing.

◗ A full daily veterinarian’s record of all medications and treatments given to horses will be provided to the gaming commission, which will post these records on its website daily.

◗ All equipment, feed, hay bales, etc. are subject to administrative searches and checks.

[ROAD TO THE KENTUCKY DERBY: Prep races, point standings, replays]

“These measures will ensure that the Wood Memorial is conducted in the safest and most transparent manner,” said New York Racing Association CEO and president Chris Kay. “We thank the New York State Gaming Commission for its assistance in establishing these protocols on behalf of the horses, the horsemen, and our guests.”