JCapper Message Board

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                      -- Tracks to race without the public because of Coronavirus

"In response to California Gov. Gavin Newsom's recommendation to cancel gatherings of more than 250 people throughout the state to slow the spread of COVID-19, Santa Anita Park and Golden Gate Fields will close to the public effective immediately. Both tracks will continue to race as scheduled, with personnel licensed by the California Horse Racing Board allowed to attend.

“We heard Gov. Newsom's call and we are responding accordingly for the protection of our customers and employees,” said Aidan Butler, Acting Executive Director, California Operations, The Stronach Group. “Much like other sports which have chosen to play without spectators, we will race with the personnel necessary to ensure the safety of the horses and the integrity of the sport. It is in everyone's best interest to take these steps and we appreciate everyone's understanding of this unique situation.”

In addition to being closed to the public for live racing, the venues also are closed for simulcast wagering and morning workouts, including Santa Anita's Clocker's Corner and tram tours.

As the COVID-19 outbreak is a fluid situation, the policy will be evaluated on a daily basis on the advice of governmental and health authorities."

"Keeneland has announced the cancellation of its upcoming April 2-Year-Olds in Training and Horses of Racing Age Sale scheduled for Apr. 7 out of “an abundance of caution to do our part in containing the spread of COVID-19,” the organization announced Thursday afternoon.

Keeneland also announced that its spring race meeting would open Apr. 2 without spectators, but with a limited number of credentials provided to those directly connected to horses running at the track. Keeneland will reevalute the situation to consider re-opening Apr. 15.

Patrons who purchased tickets for racing dates between Apr. 2-11 will automatically receive a full refund on those purchases. Patrons who have already purchased tickets for racing dates between April 15-24 have the option to request a full refund at any time.

“While our horsemen and fans are certainly disappointed about us having to take these measures, it is critical to protect the health and safety of our patrons, employees and participants from the spread of COVID-19,” Keeneland President and CEO Bill Thomason said. “We take our responsibility to the community and the horse industry seriously and we will continue to work in partnership with government authorities.”"

"HorseTourneys issued the following statement Thursday regarding the Horse Player World Series, which was scheduled for March 26-28 at the Orleans Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas:

Boyd Gaming management today elected to cancel the upcoming Horse Player World Series.

Players that have earned HPWS prizes via HorseTourneys will have the value of those prizes credited to player accounts by noon ET on Friday, March 13. Please be patient as player accounts are credited.

Players in states eligible for withdrawal may withdraw those funds if they so choose, or those funds may be used for future tournaments at HorseTourneys.

Players in states not eligible for withdrawal should contact Customer Support for options.

We will notify customers on any future plans we receive regarding re-scheduling of the Horse Player World Series."