Racing July 17 at Woodbine, Colonial Downs, Delaware Park, and Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races has been canceled due to poor air quality. Wildfire smoke and wind flow have contributed to poor air quality conditions across portions of the United States and into Canada.
Environment Canada's air quality index for Toronto is again listed as "High Risk" and is expected to remain at this level throughout Friday. Woodbine's decision to cancel follows consultation with the Ontario Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association, the Jockeys' Guild, and the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario and is consistent with the AGCO's air quality guidelines.
This cancellation has been made in the best interests of the health and safety of the horses and racing participants.
Woodbine will be looking at the possibility of additional racing opportunities in the coming days for Friday's canceled races.
The next card of live racing is scheduled for July 18 at 1 p.m. ET
Delaware said its canceled card from Friday would be transferred in its entirety to July 21.
Delaware and Charles Town, like Woodbine, are scheduled to race next on Saturday.
In other Saturday racing news, Colonial Downs announced Friday it would move up its first post time to 11:30 ET due to forecasted heat for the New Kent, Va. area. Its last race will be run at approximately 3 p.m.
The July 19 card at Colonial is scheduled for its regular 12:30 p.m. first post.
