According to Batavia Downs track superintendent Fran Mruczek, the Batavia track is in solid shape heading into the opening card of the 63rd meet, scheduled for Monday, July 27.

“The racetrack is in great shape,” Mruczek was quoted as saying in a Batavia release. “My staff completely resurfaced the half-mile oval back in May.”

Batavia will be welcoming horsemen back on Sunday, July 19. Horses will be allowed on the grounds starting July 21.

“The first condition sheet of the season will be available online, at the race office and at the horsemen’s office, beginning on July 17,” racing secretary Joe Zambito was quoted as saying. “We’re excited to be back, as always I expect the racing to be extremely competitive.”

The 2009 season runs from July 27 through December 5. There will be a total of 72 race days, in which two are matinees, Sunday August 30 and Labour Day, Monday, September 7.

First race post time for matinee cards is 1:15 p.m. First race post times for the evening cards is 7:05 p.m.

(With files from Batavia)