Belmont Stakes Canceled Due to Poor Air Quality

Governor Warns Event Could Be Scrapped

Racing Set to Resume on Friday

The Belmont Stakes, the third and final leg of horse racing's Triple Crown, has been canceled due to poor air quality resulting from wildfires in Canada. New York Governor Kathy Hochul has warned that the event could be scrapped altogether if air quality does not improve.

The New York Racing Association (NYRA) announced the cancellation of live racing at Belmont Park on Thursday, citing the compromised air quality as a health concern for horses and jockeys. Racing is expected to resume on Friday if air quality conditions permit.

The cancellation of the Belmont Stakes is a major blow to the horse racing industry and fans alike. The event is one of the most prestigious races in the world, and it attracts thousands of spectators each year.

The wildfires in Canada have been burning for several weeks, and they have created a thick smoke haze that has spread across the northeastern United States. The air quality in the New York City area has been particularly poor, and it has forced the cancellation of several other outdoor events.