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Saratoga Opens 2026 Season Despite Heat, PETA Criticizes

7/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

The New York Racing Association (NYRA) announced that Saratoga Race Course will open its 2026 season on Friday despite extreme heat.
Veterinarians and cooling stations will be available, with NOAA rules requiring a vet to alert stewards if the heat index hits 105 °F.
PETA vice president Kathy Guillermo called NYRA negligent and urged cancellation after horse Corruption died of heat exhaustion, with $200,000 Schuylerville Stakes set to headline the day.

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Story summary

The New York Racing Association (NYRA) announced that Saratoga Race Course will open its 2026 season on Friday despite extreme heat.
Veterinarians and cooling stations will be available, with NOAA rules requiring a vet to alert stewards if the heat index hits 105 °F.
PETA vice president Kathy Guillermo called NYRA negligent and urged cancellation after horse Corruption died of heat exhaustion, with $200,000 Schuylerville Stakes set to headline the day.