Penn National Gaming Inc. announced today that it will host Opening Day of the Massachusetts Standardbred harness racing season at Plainridge Racecourse on Wednesday, April 16 at 3:30 p.m. (ET).

"Today is more than the start of another harness racing season – it is the beginning of a bright future for the Massachusetts equine industry,” said Chris McErlean, VP of Racing for Penn National. “With the opening of Plainridge Park Casino in little over a year, harness racing is here to stay and thrive in the Commonwealth. That's good news for our current employees, the hundreds more that will soon be joining them, and the thousands of families throughout Massachusetts whose livelihoods depend on the industry. We are very proud and excited to be here today and are thankful to the community and the Commonwealth."

Plainridge Racecourse employees, horsemen, and local community officials will be in attendance for a brief ceremony and remarks to commemorate the day. Penn National held a groundbreaking ceremony for Plainridge Park Casino on March 14, 2014. Construction of the gaming facility will occur concurrently with the live racing season. The company expects minimal impact on the live racing season that takes place on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays throughout the year.

(Penn National)