Belmont Stakes: Is the Race Off?

Demolition at Belmont Park Raises Concerns

The upcoming Belmont Stakes, a prestigious horse race scheduled for June 10, is in jeopardy due to ongoing demolition work at Belmont Park in Elmont, New York. According to recent reports, the track is currently a construction site, raising questions about whether the race can proceed as planned.

Recent Developments

In a statement released this week, Belmont Park officials confirmed that racing operations have been suspended until further notice. The cancellation of races on Thursday was attributed to poor air quality caused by wildfires in Canada. However, the demolition work remains the primary concern.

Governor Kathy Hochul has weighed in on the situation, warning that the Belmont Stakes could be canceled altogether. She cited the ongoing construction and the potential safety risks to both horses and spectators.

Impact on the Racing Community

The potential cancellation of the Belmont Stakes would have a significant impact on the racing community. The race is one of the three legs of the Triple Crown and attracts horses from around the world. Its loss would be a major setback for trainers, jockeys, and horse owners.