spectators allowed

The upcoming Keeneland Spring Meet, to be held April 2-23, will allow a limited number of spectators. Pre-sold ticket packages will be available Monday, Mar. 1, and will include dining, reserved grandstand seating, and general admission. Race participants, sponsors, box holders, and Club members will also be given limited access. "The enthusiasm and loyalty of our fans are what make Keeneland so special," said Keeneland President and CEO Shannon Arvin. "We have missed their presence on race days and we are excited to welcome them, albeit in limited number, back...

The Virginia Gold Cup, one of the country's oldest steeplechase races and traditionally held on the first Saturday in May, will be moved for 2020 to Saturday, May 29. Contested last year in June and livestreamed without spectators due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year's edition will allow limited spectators. Ticket packages are being sold on a first-come, first-served basis with regular space reservations reverting to tradition in 2022. "It's important to run these races so that we can continue to help out the equine industry and provide some income,"...

The Steeplechase of Charleston, to be held Sunday, Nov. 15, at Stono Ferry Racetrack in Hollywood, S.C., will allow spectators and will also be streamed live via the National Steeplechase Association (NSA)'s website. Sunday's racecard will be just one of two sanctioned steeplechase events this year to admit fans due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Unlike flat racing, steeplechase racing does not depend on pari-mutuel wagering for purses, but instead on admissions, parking, and tailgating income. Spectators at the Steeplechase of Charleston will be accommodated in single vehicle spots with...

Churchill Downs will open its 131st Fall Meet Sunday, Oct. 25, by allowing spectators for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic began this past spring. It will mark the first time this year that fans can attend live racing at Churchill. The Louisville track will continue to follow the COVID-19 health and safety protocols mandated by the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Temperature checks, medical questionnaires, physical distancing and mandatory face coverings will be required. Capacity will be limited as per Kentucky's requirements for venues and event spaces. Last year's average...

Arlington Park will allow limited spectators to attend live race days beginning Sept. 3 and for the remainder of the COVID-19 abbreviated race meeting, according to a post on the track's website that appeared late Thursday afternoon. Up to 300 patrons will be permitted to watch races on track from a variety of outdoor seating areas with strict safety protocols in place. All racegoers will be required to wear masks at all times, unless consuming food or beverages. No gatherings will be permitted indoors. The only interior areas with public...