Wintery Conditions Cancel Oaklawn, Laurel Wednesday

A winter storm has canceled racing Wednesday and Thursday in Arkansas and Wednesday's card in Maryland. Oaklawn is also closed for simulcasting.

"We see no way for the racing strip to be suitable for racing on Wednesday," said Oaklawn general manager Eric Jackson on Tuesday. By Wednesday afternoon, Thursday's live racing was also cancelled. "With no break in the wintry weather conditions, we have no choice but to cancel Thursday's live card," Jackson said. "Our decision to open for simulcast only will depend on road conditions on Thursday morning. We are taking entries for Friday, and we are optimistic that we'll be able to be back into live action on Friday."

Oaklawn's 2003 opening was delayed by a frozen track and subfreezing temperatures, causing the cancellation of three days, Jan. 24-26. A 2-3" snowfall and subfreezing temperatures also caused the cancellation of racing on Feb. 6.

This is the fifth time this month Laurel has cancelled due to weather. Snow was expected to continue throughout the day Wednesday, with accumulations of two inches expected by rush hour. Up to four more inches of snow and another storm were predicted for Wednesday evening. The track is open Wednesday for simulcasting.

Laurel Park was also canceled on February 7, 15, 16 and 17 because of snow on the racetrack.