WINNIPEG SUN – Josh Aldrich
March 28, 2020
Assiniboia Downs is contemplating the potential of running a horse racing season without fans, at least to start.
COVID-19 is the latest blow to an industry that has struggled to stay front of mind with a long growing list of entertainment options.
Assiniboia Downs is currently scheduled to start their season on Mother’s Day weekend, but a prolonged shut down to the coronavirus could push that date back. From there it will become a conversation as to how long they can delay the season or if they run without people in the stands.
If they do run without fans, it will be about saving the industry.
More from Canadian Thoroughbred:
The first of 129 racing cards at Woodbine will be drawn Wednesday and right off the bat there should be some nice races to get things started.
Less than two weeks to the 150th Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks and here are the probable entrants, plus Monday news.
The 2024 Assiniboia Downs season begins May 20 and already the backstretch is buzzing with a lot of jockeys and prospective grooms.
Bill Mott worked his Derby and Oaks horses together while other starters will be eyeing preps this weekend, depending on the weather.
