As the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic continues to wreak its havoc on society at large, racing and racing-related operations continue to be impacted.
Oaklawn Park announced late Sunday that the adjoining casino will be closed for a period of two weeks beginning Monday with the announcement that two people in Garland County have tested positive for the virus. Operations will be suspended through Mar. 30 in the casino, the Silks Bar & Grill, Bistro 2075 and the sports book. The track is committed to holding racing without spectators.
Gulfstream Park announced that it will be closing the casino on its grounds while keeping the track open for spectator-less racing. A statement from the track added, “All areas of the Clubhouse, including the walking ring and the apron, will be closed with perimeter fencing and security. The Village at Gulfstream Park will remain open, however, we encourage our guests to check with specific retailers' operating hours.”
Spectator-free racing will also continue at the Fair Grounds in New Orleans “for 14 days or until relevant authorities determine it is appropriate to do so,” but officials announced the voluntary closure of Fair Grounds Slots as of 12 p.m. local time Monday. There have been no reported cases of the virus at the track.
The National HBPA announced that it has canceled its annual convention scheduled for Mar. 24-28 in Hot Springs, AR.
“We are saddened to have to call off our conference,” said Eric Hamelback, chief executive officer of the National Horsemen's Benevolent & Protective Association. “We were hoping there was a way to preserve it in order to engage in important discussion about the issues we face and ways to work toward improving our industry. But nothing is more important than the health and safety of Americans. Drastic measures are being taken across the country, and canceling our convention is the responsible thing to do.”
Ellis Park in Henderson, KY, and Kentucky Downs in Franklin have both announced closures beginning Mar. 16 and extending through at least Mar. 30.
Officials at Finger Lakes Gaming and Racing in upstate New York announced the temporary closing of the facility effective 8 p.m. Monday evening.
The Louisiana Thoroughbred Breeders' Association's 2020 Annual Membership Meeting that was scheduled at Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots, in New Orleans, LA Sunday Mar. 22, has been postponed. No makeup date has been announced as of yet. The meeting was scheduled to award divisional championships for Louisiana-breds in 2019.
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