With heavy rain falling in New York and severe thunderstorms predicted for Elmont and the surrounding areas, racing officials at Belmont Park cancelled live racing and simulcasting July 18. According to a release from the New York Racing Association, wagering is only available via internet and telebet wagering systems.
Belmont Park cancelled the card after five inches of rain fell in Elmont, causing local traffic jams and power outages. The rain caused minor flooding in Belmont's clubhouse lobby and jockeys' room, the release said.
The dirt races scheduled for July 18 will be re-drawn and used for the July 20 "Sunset Friday" card. The two turf races scheduled for the 18th will not be brought back.
The two-day forecast for Elmont calls for showers and thunderstorms, with a 40% chance of rain Wednesday evening and a 50% chance of rain Thursday. The temperature in Elmont, as of 10:55 a.m. July 18, was 70 degrees with a humidity level of 90%.