Discoveries lead to immediate suspensions.

Hats off to the Presque Isle Downs and Parx for taking care of our horses!

During security searches at Presque Isle Downs and Parx Racing on September 19, 2025, Pennsylvania Horse Racing Commission officials discovered an electrical device and loaded syringes in the vehicles of licensed horse racing personnel. This resulted in immediate suspensions and increased scrutiny of the sport’s safety and integrity policies.

Two tracks – two takedowns

Presque Isle Downs: Electrical Device Discovery

At Presque Isle Downs, owner and stable employee Miguel Alberto Olguin was found to have an electrical, or “shocking,” device in his vehicle. The possession of such devices, which are meant to stimulate or shock horses, is strictly forbidden under both Pennsylvania law and Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) regulations. Olguin was immediately suspended pending further investigation, and law enforcement involvement may follow. Both state and HISA rules clearly state that no electrical or mechanical stimulants, other than legal riding crops, are permitted to be used on or even possessed by any racing participant.

Parx Racing: Loaded Syringes and Needles

At Parx Racing, another search revealed owner Angel M. Cuello, operating under AC Racing Stable, in possession of loaded syringes and needles in his vehicle. Pennsylvania Code only allows commission, racetrack, or approved veterinarians to have needles or injectable substances on licensed premises. Cuello was also summarily suspended for violating these regulations, and his case might involve broader disciplinary and possibly legal proceedings.

Thanks go out to the Pennsylvania Horse Racing Commission

Rapic action ensures integrity and safety

The Pennsylvania Horse Racing Commission’s swift response underscores ongoing concerns about the integrity and safety of horse racing, especially given the recent violations related to doping, medication, and unsafe practices. The suspensions will stay in effect until disciplinary hearings are held, and both horses and trainers linked to the accused have been withdrawn from upcoming races as a precaution.