NYRA Quarantines Saratoga’s Barn 28 Due to Suspected Strangles Case
The New York Racing Association and the New York State Gaming Commission have placed horses in Barn 28 at Saratoga Race Course under quarantine following a suspected case of strangles, officials announced Saturday morning.
The quarantine affects several high-profile entries, including La Cara (Street Sense), who was scratched from the GI CCA Oaks.
A 4-year-old filly, Surprenant Cocca (Catholic Boy), trained by Mike Maker and stabled in the affected barn, displayed symptoms early Saturday and has been moved offsite for further testing.
Horses quarantined in Barn 28 cannot race or train with the general horse population until further notice.
The barn, which houses horses trained by both Maker and Mark Casse, will remain under quarantine pending test results and additional guidance from racing officials.
Casse’s first-time starter Our Magical Moon (Good Magic) was also scratched from Saturday’s seventh race at Saratoga.
The quarantine’s impact extended to Monmouth Park, where Casse’s Saratoga-based entries Corruption (Medaglia d’Oro) and Get Smokin (Get Stormy) were scratched from the GII United Nations Stakes.
Co-owner Ironhorse Racing Stable addressed Get Smokin’s scratch on social media: “Get Smokin, who is doing terrific heading into today’s United Nations Stakes at MonmouthPark, has been scratched due to the quarantine situation at Saratoga, where he was shipping in from this morning. He is happy and healthy and looking forward to his next start.”
NYRA and the NYSGC have implemented standard infectious disease protocols, including restricted barn access, 24-hour security, mandatory temperature checks, and enhanced biosecurity measures for anyone requiring access to Barn 28.
Strangles is a contagious bacterial infection primarily affecting a horse’s respiratory system with symptoms similar to strep throat in humans. The condition is generally not life-threatening when properly diagnosed and treated, with most horses making a full recovery.
Despite the quarantine, no additional restrictions have been placed on horses shipping in or out of Saratoga.
Racing officials indicated they will provide updates as the situation develops.
Get Smokin, who is doing terrific heading into today's United Nations Stakes @MonmouthPark has been scratched due to the quarantine situation at Saratoga, where he was shipping in from this morning. He is happy and healthy and looking forward to his next start.
— Ironhorse Racing Stable (@racingwithihr)
Get Smokin, who is doing terrific heading into today's United Nations Stakes July 19, 2025
