Winter weather forces tracks to cancel

Aqueduct, Charles Town and Turfway Park canceled live racing on Thursday because of

extremely cold conditions in those areas.

Officials at Aqueduct called off racing after the 2ND race on Thursday. The

card, which was originally scheduled for last Sunday, was called off when a snowstorm

hit the region. The Big A did remain open

for simulcasting. Fans at the track were told to bring in Thursday's program to

exchange for another one during the next two weeks. Racing is expected to resume

on Friday with a Pick 6 carryover of $85,343.

Penn National closed Wednesday night after jockeys voted not to ride after

the 2ND race and will remain closed until further notice.

"The temperatures were in the mid-20s for the opening races on January 26

(Wednesday) and it wasn't expected that the jockeys voted not to continue

riding," Penn National Vice-President and General Manager Richard Schnaars said.

"With the weather report calling for lower temperatures through the weekend

there would seem that there is a possibility that the same scenario could arise

on a daily basis.

"We have a commitment to our patrons, horsemen and employees and these

cancellations are an inconvenience to those parties," Schnaars continued. "The

most logical solution at this time would be for us to halt live racing until

further notice."

Simulcasting will still be available at Penn National.

Turfway Park also canceled racing Wednesday night after the 2ND race due to

poor track conditions.