Extreme cold weather has forced changes to racing schedules at Charles Town Races and Turfway Park. Frigid temperatures, including wind chills as low as 33 degrees below zero, have made it unsafe for horses, jockeys, and staff. Let’s take a closer look at how these tracks are adjusting their plans.
Charles Town Races Cancels Wednesday Program
Charles Town Races in West Virginia canceled its live racing program for Wednesday, January 22, due to dangerously cold weather. The National Weather Service predicted temperatures as low as 6 degrees at night, with a high of just 18 degrees during the day.
To make up for the canceled races, Wednesday’s events have been added as extras for Saturday’s card. Live racing is expected to resume Thursday at its regular start time of 7 p.m. EST, assuming the weather improves.
Turfway Park Moves Wednesday Card to Sunday
Turfway Park in Florence, Kentucky, also adjusted its schedule because of the cold. Racing originally planned for Wednesday will now take place on Sunday, January 26. The races will run as scheduled, with the first post at 12:30 p.m. EST.
The decision came after weather forecasts predicted wind chills as low as 33 degrees below zero on Wednesday. Racing at Turfway is expected to continue on Thursday at 5:55 p.m. EST, when temperatures are forecasted to reach a more manageable 31 degrees.
Other Tracks Impacted by Cold and Snow
Charles Town and Turfway Park are not the only tracks affected by winter weather.
- Delta Downs: Canceled Wednesday’s card due to a blizzard warning.
- Fair Grounds: Rescheduled Thursday’s races for Monday due to severe cold and winter storms.
- Parx Racing: Called off Monday’s card because of dangerously low temperatures.
These changes show how tracks are prioritizing safety during extreme weather.
Winter weather is a challenging time for horse racing, with freezing temperatures and snowstorms making conditions unsafe. Charles Town and Turfway Park’s quick adjustments reflect their commitment to the safety of everyone involved, from the horses to the staff. As racing resumes later in the week, fans can look forward to exciting action while staying safe and warm.
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