New York State and The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) are supporting a three-year Cornell University study aimed at improving the detection of injuries in Thoroughbred racehorses.
Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine has commenced the project through Cornell Ruffian Equine Specialists, an equine hospital located next to Belmont Park.
The study will use data from horses examined at the facility and is intended to build on previous international research focused on preventing fatal musculoskeletal injuries.
New York State is investing $18m over the next three years to fund the project as part of Governor Kathy Hochul’s 2025 to 2026 Enacted Budget. NYRA has donated $2m toward the purchase of advanced imaging equipment.
As part of the study, standing computed tomography (CT) and positron emission tomography (PET) machines will be installed at Cornell Ruffian.
The release said the standing CT system can produce high-resolution images of bony anatomy to identify microstructural changes prior to being apparent on radiographs, while PET can detect increased bone metabolic activity across multiple planes to pinpoint regions of pathology.
The research plan includes identifying fetlock fractures and pre fracture pathology in horses with and without lameness. It also seeks to determine the sensitivity and specificity of CT, PET and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compared to digital radiographs, alongside further work on biomarkers and a risk factor index for fatal musculoskeletal injury.
NYRA President and CEO, David O’Rourke, said: “Continuously improving equine safety is an organizational imperative at NYRA.”
Cornell Ruffian Equine Specialists Clinical Director, John Pigott, said: “This landmark study will provide critical information to the state Thoroughbred industry members and veterinarians to help keep our horses and jockeys as safe as possible.”
Cornell Austin O. Hooey Dean of Veterinary Medicine, Lorin D. Warnick, said: “We look forward to working collaboratively with owners, trainers and veterinarians to conduct this important study.”
New York State’s broader gaming and wagering market continues to post material activity levels, with the New York State Gaming Commission reporting January 2026 retail casino GGR up 8.7% to $58.7m and mobile sports betting handle of just over $2.4bn.
Study findings are expected to be published in peer-reviewed periodicals and presented at veterinary research conferences
