Harness Racing B.C. and Fraser Downs have announced that next week's race cards for Thursday, Dec. 12 and Friday, Dec. 13 at Fraser Downs are cancelled.
HRBC's board of directors made the decision on Friday, Dec. 6 to cancel the race cards due to the current state of health of the region's horses suffering from viruses. This precautionary decision follows several veterinary scratches during this week's races.
"While the reported sicknesses appear to be mild, it has resulted in several horses not being ready to race," said Kelly MacMillan, HRBC President. "We felt that it was in the best interest of our equine stars to give them a little time to recover fully so they can return to competition in top condition."
Racing action is expected to resume on Thursday, Dec. 19 and continue on Thursdays and Fridays through Dec. 27 with a 7 p.m. (PST) first post time. The B.C. Sale Stakes #24 for the participants of the 2022 yearling sale has been rescheduled to the Boxing Day card on Thursday, Dec. 26.
"The health, safety and well-being of the horses remain the top priority for Fraser Downs, and the team is working closely with HRBC, veterinarians and trainers to monitor the situation," said the track in a statement issued on Saturday, Dec. 7. "Fraser Downs appreciates the understanding and support of its fans and the racing community during this time."
(With files from HRBC and Fraser Downs)