Oaklawn Bans Horses From New Mexico, Arizona

Oaklawn Park has banned from its grounds all horses from New Mexico and Arizona because of the recent equine herpesvirus outbreaks in those states, Oaklawn director of racing David Longinotti announced Jan. 28.



The policy is effective immediately and until further notice, and includes any horses who have been in either state since Jan. 1. Sunland Park has suspended racing after the virus was discovered Jan. 21 at the New Mexico track, and Turf Paradise has also reported cases recently.

BLOOD-HORSE STAFF: Sunland Park Suspends Racing in Wake of Virus



Also included in part of the policy are restrictions on workers from Arizona and New Mexico—including, but not limited to jockeys, grooms, farriers and trainers. Workers from those states will not be allowed on the grounds until meeting with the Oaklawn stewards.



"We are being overly cautious because our main concern is for the safety of the horses currently stabled on our grounds," Longinotti said.