Virus concerns lead tracks to prohibit patrons during racing

Posted: March 13, 2020

Racetracks around the country have announced that though live racing will continue, facilities will be closed to the public.

One track, Parx Racing in Pennsylvania, on March 12 said live racing will be suspended for a minimum of two weeks due to public health concerns posed by the coronavirus (COVID-19). There will be no change in training hours and other backstretch activities.

The Stronach Group said racing will continue at Laurel Park and Rosecroft Raceway in Maryland, Gulfstream Park in Florida, and Golden Gate Fields and Santa Anita Park in California but only licensees will be permitted access.

The Maryland Jockey Club said all seven off-track betting outlets—standalone facilities in Boonsboro, Frederick, Hampstead and Timonium and those located in Maryland casinos (Horseshoe Balitmore, MGM National Harbor and Hollywood Casino Perryville)—will remain open.

The New York Racing Association, which is currently racing at Aqueduct Racetrack; Turfway Park in Kentucky and Oaklawn Park in Arkansas also said they will continue to race but patrons will be not permitted at the facilities. Keeneland, the Kentucky track that opens in early April, said it will race but not allow patrons on the grounds until at least mid-April.