The New York State 2026 Budget included funding for advanced image research program to be conducted at Cornell Ruffian. Per the proposal, NYRA is required to invest $2 million for advanced imaging equipment, and the state will provide operating funds for an initiative totaling approximately $18 million over the next three years.

The research project aims to provide additional valuable information in three main focus areas including biometric sensors, blood biomarkers, and advanced imaging (PET, CT, MRI) in racing Thoroughbreds in New York. The goal is to gather useful information in these three areas to help identify additional ways to prevent catastrophic breakdown in the fetlock joint, while prioritizing an anonymous approach to any horses included in the study. Introductory information will be discussed in the upcoming webinar while soliciting questions and concerns amongst horsemen and women.

About the panelist:

Dr. John Pigott is the chief surgeon and hospital director at Cornell Ruffian Equine Specialists (CRES) across from Belmont Park. He completed his equine surgery residency training and research at The Ohio State University. Dr. Pigott joined the team at CRES in 2016 and has notable expertise in orthopedic surgery, upper airway surgery, complicated lameness, and advanced imaging. As a recognized specialist, Dr. Pigott is an invited speaker at both national and international conferences on the topics of orthopedics, regenerative medicine, and poor performance in racehorses. Dr. Pigott's research is focused on Thoroughbred breakdown prevention and early screening techniques.

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