Lately, the New York Racing Association has been struggling with financial problems. Aqueduct, Saratoga and Belmont, the three racetracks managed by the NYRA, have had problems to balance their books and, despite efforts, profits have continued decreasing. The solution for the NYRA finally came with a $25 million state loan.

In spite of the loan, the NYRA suffered a major setback when it was announced that all horses running in the Association’s racetracks would be forced to remain in a security barn for six hours prior to any race. The majority of trainers opposed the rule claiming that a security barn would prevent their team veterinarians to attend horses, who would also suffer the stress.

After this wave of bad news comes a piece of news that could really be good for the NYRA because rumor has it one of the New York racetracks could stage the first clash between Zenyatta and Rachel Alexandra. It has been said that Zenyatta will run in the Grade One Clement Hirsch Handicap, but apparently, trainer Shirreffs is in doubt about the surface. On the other hand, Rachel Alexandra co-owner Jess Jackson doesn’t like synthetic surfaces, like the ones in California.

This means Zenyatta would need to leave California to face Rachel Alexandra and due to the new regulations, Shirreffs could consider the NYRA race courses. He would probably choose between the Personal Ensign Stakes on August 29th or the Woodward Stakes on September 4th , which will both take place at Saratoga. If Zenyatta goes east it would mean a clear challenge for Rachel Alexandra and her connections, which is really good news for the NYRA.