Saratoga Race Course ends 2023 season with Labor Day meet

Labor Day marked the final day of racing at Saratoga Race Course.

During the meet, NYRA announced steps to try and improve horse safety. That was in response to at least a dozen deaths during this season.

The new rules require a private veterinarian to first perform a physical exam to confirm the horse fit to race. Then an additional exam must happen within a 72-hour window before the horse can be accepted for any race.

Weather was a challenge for part of the meet, with the wettest July on record in the Capital Region.

There were new concessions for fans this year – many with an emphasis on New York Products.

The giveaways were popular. They included a cooler a T-shirt, bucket hat and tote bag.