Santa Anita Park, a well-known horse racing venue in Los Angeles County, is facing disruptions caused by poor air quality from nearby wildfires. The Friday race schedule has been postponed, and decisions regarding weekend events, including Saturday’s highly anticipated California Cup program, are still pending. Here’s what you need to know about the situation and its impact.
Why Friday Races Were Canceled
Wildfires in Southern California have caused smoke to settle over the region, leading to unsafe air quality levels. Santa Anita Park made the proactive decision to cancel Friday’s races to ensure the safety of horses, jockeys, and staff.
Track General Manager Nate Newby emphasized that Santa Anita is not directly threatened by the fires, but the smoke’s impact on Los Angeles County has been significant.
Impact on Training and Operations
Training at Santa Anita has also been affected:
- Limited Training: On Thursday, horses were allowed to jog and gallop in the morning. By afternoon, activities were further restricted to jogging only as the air quality index (AQI) surpassed 175.
- Policy on Training and Racing: Per California Horse Racing Board guidelines, any training beyond jogging and live racing is prohibited when the AQI exceeds 175.
- Protective Measures: Staff at Santa Anita have been provided with N-95 masks and protective eyewear to combat the effects of smoke.
Saturday’s California Cup Program: What’s Next?
Saturday’s California Cup program, featuring an 11-race lineup with five stakes races for state-bred horses, is still in question. A decision regarding weekend races is expected early Friday morning.
Track officials are monitoring conditions closely and will adjust plans based on AQI readings and the situation on the ground. This uncertainty has required horsemen, fans, and staff to remain flexible.
How Wildfires Are Affecting Santa Anita
One wildfire has come within six miles of Santa Anita. While the track itself remains safe, the effects of smoke and wind have been widespread:
- Minor damage occurred to barn roofs due to strong winds.
- Assistance has been offered to trainers wishing to evacuate horses to other California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) facilities.
- Masks and protective gear have been distributed to backstretch and front-side personnel.
The cancellation of Friday’s races at Santa Anita highlights the broader impact of Southern California’s wildfires. By prioritizing the safety of the community, horses, and staff, the track demonstrates its commitment to responsible operations during these challenging times. With decisions about the weekend races pending, the focus remains on ensuring everyone’s well-being and adapting to the evolving conditions.
The ongoing challenges posed by wildfires serve as a reminder of the importance of safety and preparedness in unpredictable situations. Whether you’re a racing fan, a horseman, or part of the community, staying informed and flexible is key during these difficult times.
Visit Home