New York State maintains the strongest Thoroughbred and Standardbred racing and breeding programs in North America. Its 11 racetracks are located in, or near, major urban areas from Buffalo to New York City. Supporting this equine industry is a horse population of over 150,000, which is located throughout the state on farms, training centers and the tracks themselves. Over 33,000 people in 62 counties are employed in New York’s equine industry.
New York’s horse racing industry is the backbone of the many supporting business enterprises, such as hay and grain growers, accountants, veterinarians, blacksmiths, feed store owners, tractor and truck suppliers, etc. The “Racing For NY” video illustrates the thousands of New Yorkers whose continued employment depends on this industry. The direct, and indirect, economic impact of New York’s horse industry in 2011 was $4.15 billion. A strong horse racing industry is vital to the New York agricultural and urban economies. Its continued growth needs to be ensured.
