Citing a developing winter storm, Turfway Park in Florence, Ky., has canceled live racing for Thursday, Jan. 20. The track plans to offer simulcast wagering on other tracks, but will close around 5 p.m. EST, earlier than normal.
The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for the Cincinnati, Ohio area that includes Florence and northern Kentucky. The NWS said the area can expect two to four inches of snow accompanied by a high temperature of 30 degrees and winds from five to 10 miles per hour.
Turfway said it plans to resume live racing Friday, Jan. 21, with a 5:30 p.m. post. The forecast for Jan. 21 is for very cold temperatures, with a high of 16, and winds ranging from 10 to 15 miles per hour.
Although there was no snow yet in Hot Springs, Arkansas, Oaklawn Park made the decision to cancel Thursday’s card due to a fast approaching winter storm that brought rain and freezing rain to the resort town.
The precipitation was forecast to turn to snow by post time for the race card and the Arkansas State police were reporting poor roads conditions north of Little Rock. Oaklawn remained open for simulcast racing and gaming.
“Our track crew did a marvelous job last weekend and we are confident that by cancelling today, we can allow them the opportunity to stay ahead of the snow and freezing temperatures to help protect the track for this weekend’s racing,” said assistant general manager of Racing David Longinotti. “We also have to take into consideration the safety of our patrons, horsemen and employees when looking at the potential for unsafe driving conditions.”
Also in Kentucky, Churchill Downs officials canceled simulcast wagering Thursday at its Trackside at Churchill Downs off-track betting facility.