N.Y. Harness Drivers Must Wear Certified Protective Helmets

The New York State Racing and Wagering Board has directed that, effective Oct. 1, all harness drivers must wear protective helmets that meet certification standards of the Snell Memorial Foundation or U.S. Department of Transportation.

The directive came nine days after Hall of Fame driver Billy Haughton died of head injuries suffered July 5 when he was thrown from his sulky.

The helmet directive applies only to races until Jan. 1. After that, certified helmets must be worn anytime a driver is on a track.