The state of Maine continues through a phased reopening from COVID-19 shutdown and as part of that reopening, the office of Governor Janet T. Mills has granted approval for Scarborough Downs to launch its delayed 2020 harness racing meet.
The Downs will kick off its 70th season on Wednesday (June 3) on a spectator-less basis and will continue to race on a three-card-per-week schedule (Monday, Wednesday and Friday) with post time slated at 1:00 p.m. (EDT).
While fans will not be able to attend the races during the initial startup period, the races will be available for watching and out-of-state wagering on the Day at the Track wagering platform (Dayatthetrack.com and/or Racingday.com) and on the newly-created state of Maine Advanced Deposit Wagering platform (Hollywoodraces.com).
“We are excited to work in partnership to lead the state of Maine's harness racing industry into the 2020 season,” said Denise Terry of Scarborough Downs, “It’s been a rough few months for the entire nation but in true American fashion we have rolled up our sleeves and done what was necessary to pull through. Maine harness racing has been granted a great chance today and we are determined to do everything necessary to repay the state’s vote of confidence.”
Maine’s horsemen and women along with the industry in general have survived this arduous period and are now anxious to get back to work. Racing will be conducted under strict protocols designed by industry leaders that will ensure the safety of all participants and the greater community. This includes enforcement of the governor’s 14-day quarantine period for non-residents entering the state. These protocols will necessarily be enforced to the letter and will be available for review at Scarboroughdowns.com beginning on Monday (June 1).
“It’s hard to believe that it has been six months since horses have gone behind the gate,” said Mike Cushing, president of the Maine Harness Horsemen’s Association. “We have been given a great opportunity to get back to doing what we do, and I urge all participants to familiarize themselves with the plan of operation and adhere to it.
“The approved risk mitigation plan contains strict safety protocol designed for racing at Scarborough Downs without fans. Please remember that if you are not allowed access to the paddock, you should not come to the track on race days until a plan for spectators is reviewed and approved by the governor.”
Scarborough’s first condition sheet will be published on Friday (May 29) with a double draw for the Wednesday and Friday cards to be conducted on Sunday morning (May 31). The box for both days will close at 9:00 a.m.
(Scarborough Downs)