When the Massachusetts Gaming Commission gave its support to a tentative date for live racing to begin at Plainridge Park, it was contingent on Phase-3 of the governor’s reopening plan beginning on schedule. That has not happened and the track's starting date has changed.

On Friday (June 19), Governor Baker announced that he was extending Phase-2 by one week so he could get a look at two weeks of indoor dining data before making a decision on starting Phase-3.

As a result, if Phase-3 does begin after that one week extension, qualifiers at Plainridge would be held on Monday, July 6 and Thursday, July 9, and then the opening day of live racing for the 2020 season would take place on Monday, July 13.

Any further delay of implementing Phase-3 will also result in another delay in the racing dates listed.

The condition sheets for qualifiers are now on the United States Trotting Association’s website (ustrotting.com) with a double draw to be held for those qualifiers. You must declare by 9:00 a.m. Thursday morning (July 2) for the draw for Monday, July 6 and Thursday, July 9.

Horsemen and women are also reminded to renew their Massachusetts racing licenses in advance of the start of live racing. With limited access to the judges office due to social distancing, it is suggested you print an application from the MGC website (https://massgaming.com/licensing/horse-racing-licenses/), fill it out and return it with a cheque. MGC personnel will be working prior to the track's opening to process all applications received in order to avoid any kind of last minute rush.

(Plainridge Park)