NYRA Issues Statement on Maple Leaf Mel Fatality

The New York Racing Association released the following statement Aug. 5:

The New York Racing Association (NYRA) is saddened to report that Maple Leaf Mel sustained a catastrophic injury to her right front leg at the finish of Saturday’s grade 1, $500,000 Test at Saratoga Race Course. Despite the immediate response of on-site veterinarians, the filly was humanely euthanized due to the severity of the injury.

Maple Leaf Mel was ridden by Joel Rosario and trained by Melanie Giddings. Rosario was unseated during the incident and sent to Albany Medical Center for further evaluation and to receive stitches for facial abrasions.

Owned by August Dawn Farm and bred by Joe Fafone, Maple Leaf Mel was undefeated in five previous career starts including stakes victories in the Seeking the Ante last August at Saratoga, the East View in March at Aqueduct Racetrack, the grade 3 Miss Preakness in May at Pimlico Race Course and, most recently, the grade 3 Victory Ride July 8 at Belmont Park. Maple Leaf Mel was previously trained by Jeremiah Englehart and was making her second career start on Saturday for Giddings.

Every horse entered to compete at Saratoga Race Course is required to undergo an extensive pre-race veterinary examination before the horse is permitted to race. In addition to physical inspection and observation, regulatory veterinarians perform a detailed review of each horse’s medical records, past performances and workouts. Maple Leaf Mel passed the required pre-race veterinary inspection in accordance with these well-established protocols.

In the process of investigating this injury, a necropsy will be performed at Cornell University with the results to be analyzed by Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) officials, the New York State Equine Medical Director and NYRA leadership.

“The health and safety of horses and jockeys competing at NYRA tracks is our highest priority and one that stands above all other considerations,” said Pat McKenna, NYRA vice president of communications. “NYRA, HISA and the New York State Gaming Commission will closely review the circumstances around this incident to ensure we are providing the safest possible environment for racing and training at Saratoga Race Course.”

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