Unprecedented wildfires in California, some half a dozen active fires reported as of January 9, has led to the evacuations of thousands of people and destroyed more than 10,000 structures including homes.
Horsepeople at nearby SANTA ANITA RACETRACK in Arcadia, which is south of the Eaton Fire, could see flames and smoke during training hours on Thursday. The track was open for galloping only, according to trainer John Sadler on ‘X’. Racing at Santa Anita on Jan. 10 has been postponed to Jan. 17.
“While Santa Anita continues to remain well outside of any active fire area, the smoke from the wildfires is affecting all of Los Angeles County,” said Nate Newby, Santa Anita’s General Manager & SVP. “We also want to respect the impact that this tragedy has had on many of our community, including our horsemen and women and our own Santa Anita team, who have been devastated by these fires. By proactively moving the races, it gives our horsemen and women, horseplayers, fans and our team the opportunity to plan accordingly.”