New York Officials Cancel Horse Racing at Racetrack Over 'Unacceptable Noise Levels' from Nearby Casino

The New York Racing Association (NYRA) has canceled an entire day of horse racing at Aqueduct Racetrack due to what it described as "unacceptable noise levels" from a neighboring casino's auto show. Sunday's eight-race card was called off, leaving racing fans and participants in the lurch.

According to the NYRA, the noise stemmed from the "March Madness Auto and Bike Show" held at Resorts World New York, a casino located right next to Aqueduct. The show reportedly created an environment deemed unsafe for horses and riders. The NYRA stated, "Despite NYRA’s repeated attempts to rectify the situation, Resorts World Casino was unable to make the adjustments necessary to allow racing to proceed." Yikes, talk about a clash of worlds.

Andrew Offerman, senior vice president of racing and operations at the NYRA, shed more light on the issue. He explained that the event was held in a parking lot "immediately adjacent to the top of the stretch," resulting in unpredictable sound levels and creating risky conditions for horses and riders. "We were left with no choice but to cancel racing due to these concerns," Offerman noted. Honestly, who thought revving engines and galloping horses were a good mix?

The NYRA also expressed disappointment that they were not informed in advance about the event's potential impact. They now plan to work with the New York Thoroughbred Horseman’s Association and the New York State Gaming Commission to address the situation and figure out ways to make up for the lost racing opportunities.

Fortunately, the disruption seems to be temporary. Races are set to resume on Thursday, providing some relief to those keeping an eye on the calendar. Let's hope both the casino and the racetrack find a better way to coexist moving forward—preferably one that doesn’t involve startled horses and canceled race days.