Calling it “spring” training may be a little too optimistic as Assiniboia Downs opened its training track to horses for the first time Tuesday, March 3 at 7 a.m.
Opening was originally scheduled for Sunday but was postponed because of record cold temperatures late last week. “We cannot get the track surface to a level that we believe is safe,” said Director of Operations Darren Dunn, “we have high standards, therefore we have moved opening day of spring training to Tuesday.”
Most people picture horseracing as an activity that occurs on a gorgeous, sunny afternoon with women attired in big hats and sundresses, a picture seen in countless movies and on television. That is the end product. The beginning – at least here in Winnipeg – is on the back of a galloping horse in -22C temperatures with snow on the ground.
Training for the 51st season of racing will continue on the backstretch oval until the main track opens the beginning of April.
Opening day for live racing is Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 10. The 65-day meet will run Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday evenings at 7 p.m. Racing on holidays begins at 1 p.m. Tuesdays evenings will be added on Tuesday, June 9 and run through July 28.
The first stakes race of the year is the Golden Boy Stakes on Wednesday, June 3. Assiniboia Downs will offer approximately $1.24 million in stakes purses highlighted by the Manitoba Derby on Monday, August 3.
Assiniboia Downs will feature simulcast coverage of the Kentucky Derby, live from Churchill Downs on Saturday, May 2. Reservations for the Kentucky Derby brunch are now being accepted. Call 885-3330 to reserve your seat now!
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