We originally reported that Saffie Joseph horses had been removed from Belmont Park after having been advised by someone on the grounds that was indeed the case. We attempted to reach Saffie for comment or clarification but were not successful.
Subsequently, we were contacted by Attorney Craig Robertson of the Wyatt Firm in Lexington Kentucky, who represents Saffie. Mr Robertson advised that Saffie Joseph was not asked to leave Belmont Park nor were any of his horses. Further, Mr. Robertson advised that NYRA has taken no action against Saffie Joseph and that his license to train is in good standing in New York. We updated this article immediately to reflect the same.
In what had to be considered one of the oddest and most unusual occurrences in horse racing, is that two horses trained by Saffie Joseph, each collapsed and died under as of yet unanswered and unexplained circumstances during a live race at Churchill Downs. Chasing Artie, collapsed and died after the 8th race on the turf course on Tuesday, May 2nd, 2023. Parents Pride collapsed and died after the 8th race, April 29th, 2023 on the turf course which was opening day of the meet. Besides both horses being trained by Joseph and dying during the 8th race on the turf course, both were owned by Kenneth Ramsey and ridden by Luis Saez. The investigation into those cases continues.
Saffie Joseph had all his horses including Kentucky Derby entrant Lord Miles scratched by Churchill Downs who also suspended the trainer indefinitely. Thus far there has been no official statement from NYRA.
We will update this story as and if more information becomes available.
Photo: Saffie Joseph, Coglianese Photos, Gulfstream Park
