Addabbo, Chair of Senate Racing, Gaming and Wagering Committee, comments on the announcement of the running of the 152nd Belmont Stakes

Today’s announcement by the New York Racing Association (NYRA) that the 152nd running of the Belmont Stakes will take place on Saturday, June 20, at Belmont Park is an immensely positive step for the horse racing industry, as well as sports generally in New York State. Although no spectators will be allowed inside, one of the most historic races in history will take place, proving that live sports in New York can be done safely. Once again, I am appreciative of Governor Cuomo’s rational decision to bring racing back to Belmont Park, which has kept thousands of people employed — including the jockeys, trainers and backstretch workers — at a time when millions of people are filing for unemployment. I hope to see more sports leagues develop comprehensive safety measures that would allow them to operate here in New York State in the near future.