East Rutherford, NJ — The Meadowlands management would like to clarify its position regarding the sustaining payments to stakes and early closers due by March 16 on horses that are currently in the care of those affected by the recent indictments and arrests.

It is suggested by The Meadowlands management that you make those payments by the deadline as required if you desire to continue eligibility. If you do not make the March 16 sustaining payments the horses in question will lose eligibility to the stakes to which they were nominated in February.

The stakes conditions provide for a trainer change within a stated time frame, with the stipulation that the change be accepted and approved by The Meadowlands. Those situations will be evaluated by the stakes administrators on a case by case basis and that decision shall be final.

The same policy is in effect for stakes and early closers at Tioga and Vernon Downs that have a March 16 close of nomination.

Horses trained by any of the accused will continue to be excluded from overnight races until further notice.

Questions should be directed to the stakes department for the tracks at 607.972.5500.