Aqueduct, Charles Town and Turfway Park canceled live racing on Thursday because of
extremely cold conditions in those areas.
Officials at Aqueduct called off racing after the 2ND race on Thursday. The
card, which was originally scheduled for last Sunday, was called off when a snowstorm
hit the region. The Big A did remain open
for simulcasting. Fans at the track were told to bring in Thursday’s program to
exchange for another one during the next two weeks. Racing is expected to resume
on Friday with a Pick 6 carryover of $85,343.
Penn National closed Wednesday night after jockeys voted not to ride after
the 2ND race and will remain closed until further notice.
“The temperatures were in the mid-20s for the opening races on January 26
(Wednesday) and it wasn’t expected that the jockeys voted not to continue
riding,” Penn National Vice-President and General Manager Richard Schnaars said.
“With the weather report calling for lower temperatures through the weekend
there would seem that there is a possibility that the same scenario could arise
on a daily basis.
“We have a commitment to our patrons, horsemen and employees and these
cancellations are an inconvenience to those parties,” Schnaars continued. “The
most logical solution at this time would be for us to halt live racing until
further notice.”
Simulcasting will still be available at Penn National.
Turfway Park also canceled racing Wednesday night after the 2ND race due to
poor track conditions.