East Rutherford, NJ — Recognizing the snowballing negative public perception surrounding Thoroughbred racing and, ultimately the imminent threat to our own sport, The Meadowlands has taken the following position regarding horse slaughter and “kill pens”; any person connected with Standardbred racing found to be involved in either practice will be barred for life from participation in any form at The Meadowlands Racetrack.

The ban also includes Tioga and Vernon Downs.

The scrutiny of horse racing has not ebbed, if anything the focus on the welfare of the horses has intensified and is not limited to catastrophic breakdown and ethical treatment at the track.

What becomes of horses once their racing career is over is another key component, not only for public perception but because providing a soft landing is the humane thing to do.

It is imperative that we as horse people recognize the seriousness of these situations and don’t wait until “the horse is out of the barn” to insure the protection of racing horses both on and off the track.