Turf Paradise ends season early because of virus

[Clocker]

The season normally runs until the Ky Derby week-end.

Turf Paradise is ending its season immediately due to the Coronavirus, and to assist Arizona in slowing the spread of the illness. As state and federal officials discourage gatherings of large crowds, Turf Paradise feels compelled to do the responsible thing and end the season early.

Recently Governor Doug Ducey declared a public health emergency and he signed a bill that would spend $55 million in Arizona to combat the virus. Turf’s decision to end the season early is in support of Arizona’s public health effort.

The track’s Clubhouse and Turf’s network of Off Track Betting locations will remain open for simulcasting at other tracks. In the off-season, the Clubhouse entertains relatively small groups and the risk is minimal.

Typically, special event days at Turf Paradise draw crowds of more than 6,000 in addition to hundreds of employees, horsemen, and jockeys.

Live racing had been scheduled to run until May 3rd. Media reports indicate the Kentucky Derby, scheduled for May 2nd, may be postponed because of the Coronavirus. Live racing at Turf Paradise will resume in mid-October which is the traditional start of the season.

https://www.turfparadise.com/latest-...virus-concerns

[clicknow]

I think they could have closed til end of March then re-visit the idea after that.

The horses still need care, I guess there will be plenty of backside workers who have to show up 24/7 to work at barns.

I would have played it by ear....

I haven't really heard much about the backside workers, who traditionally live in rather cramped quarters in some of the track housing, etc. Plus they do have rec rooms and track kitchens, etc. where workers would have to be congregating?

[Afleet]

federal officials discourage gatherings of large crowds

[deelo]

They could have ran without spectators but they'd rather keep the purse money and leave all the horsemen out in the wind with no notice. Shame on them. If they were truly concerned about the virus, the OTB wouldn't be open either.

Same with Laurel. They are losing their subsidy payment from the closed casino so they aren't interested in running.

[clicknow]

Again, OBSERVE the behaviors of "businesses" and if you think they are doing wrong then don't put your $$ in their pockets. That's all they care about anyway.

[Zman179]

As if the horsemen didn’t need a reason to back Arizona Downs in their fight