Hawthorne cancels two programs

In response to a severe winter storm advisory for Wednesday and Thursday,

there will be no live racing or training on either day at Hawthorne. On

Wednesday, snowfall is forecast between two and four inches, but heavy winds

that may gust to over 50 miles per hour could create dangerous racing

conditions. On Thursday, the forecast high is only in the teens with wind chills

not expected to surpass zero degrees.

Hawthorne will remain open for simulcasting on both days and racing and

training is expected to return on Friday with a 1:20 p.m. (CST) first post.

"It is always tough to call off training and races prior to weather

arriving," Hawthorne Assistant General Manager Jim Miller said. "My concern is

that the high winds and snow will create dangerous conditions for our jockeys

and horses. Additionally, the cold temperatures on Thursday could cause the

track to freeze if we allow too much moisture to mix into the racing surface.

"By canceling now, all of our races on Wednesday and Thursday can be brought

back as extras immediately, no horses have to be treated with Lasix and not run,

and those shipping from other tracks and avoid rough travel. We can keep the

moisture on the top of the surface and allow our track crew to remove it

properly while maintaining the good racing surface.

"We will add races beginning with Saturday's card and I expect us to make up

all of those races that are cancelled."