The live racing card Nov. 3 at Aqueduct was cancelled after jockeys refused to ride prior to the first race, citing strong winds resulting from the remnants of Hurricane Noel.
Prior to the jockeys announcing they would not ride today, NYRA management had already shortened post times between races so the final race would go off at 4:19 p.m. EST instead of the originally scheduled time of 4:50 p.m. Stronger winds were possible later in the afternoon.
As of 1:00 p.m. EDT at nearby Kennedy Airport, steady winds were measured at 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph.
Aqueduct, which is hosting the Fall Handicapping Challenge, remained open for simulcasting. Patrons involved in the two-day handicapping contest will now wager on races from Churchill Downs and Calder Race Course Saturday.
Rain checks will be provided to customers leaving the racetrack by 3 p.m. for admission, parking and programs. At 3:05 p.m. admission will be free for simulcast patrons.
The featured race, the 51st running of the $150,000 Long Island Handicap (gr. III), has been rescheduled for Nov. 11.
Aqueduct will re-open Nov. 4 with a first-race post time of 12:30 p.m. EST.
