by Paul Ramlow, associate editor, Hoof Beats

A New York State grand jury is probing allegations of harness race fixing at Saratoga Gaming and Raceway.

According to a story in today’s New York Post, horses were doped with painkilling snake venom and an energy-boosting drug during the past summer season.

A 23-member panel in Saratoga County was convened last week by District Attorney James Murphy to begin hearing evidence. Subpoenas have been issued to veterinarians, trainers and owners whose Standardbreds may have been doped with imperceptible painkilling cobra toxin and Epogen, a drug used to treat anemia.

The venom can be injected directly into a horse’s joint to deaden soreness or tenderness.

Performance-enhancing Epogen helps increase red blood cells, which boost oxygen levels and provide speed and endurance.