The Maryland Jockey Club has been the green light by state and county officials to reopen Laurel Park to the public on a limited basis beginning with the Thursday, Oct. 15 program. The move stems from gaining approval from Anne Arundel County, where Laurel Park is located, in addition to Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan's revised executive order issued Sept. 28, which allows up to 250 spectators at state racetracks. Laurel Park opened its calendar year-ending fall meet Oct. 8, five days after the conclusion of the six-day Preakness Meet at Pimlico Race Course.
The 250 persons allowed in the executive order are in addition to owners and other licensed personnel that have been granted access in order to conduct live racing. Post time for Thursday's eight-race program at Laurel is 12:40 p.m.
Owners, patrons and employees will be granted entry through Laurel's grandstand entrance after having their temperature screened with a thermal camera. The horsemen's entrance adjacent to the historic paddock will only be staffed on live race days beginning at 8 a.m. for authorized personnel only. Facial coverings and proper social distancing are required for all persons and will be strictly enforced. Physical barriers have been installed where personal interaction is necessary, and increased disinfection and sanitization of common areas will be in place. Laurel's simulcast room will be at 50% capacity.
While remaining dark Mondays and Tuesdays, Laurel will be open for simulcasting on Wednesdays as well as live racing Thursday through Sunday in October and November. The first-floor grandstand concession area will operate from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. on those days, with the second-floor grandstand sports book bar open Friday through Sunday. Laurel's first-floor clubhouse, currently being used to accommodate jockeys and valets, will remain closed to the public.
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