Heat Cancels Colonial Races, Laurel Moves Post Hours

High temperatures and humidity predicted for the mid-Atlantic caused Laurel Park to push back its posting hours for July 23 races and prompted Colonial Downs to cancel July 25 races.

and in the best interest of its horses, riders and fans, the Maryland Jockey Club has extended the start time for Saturday’s 10-race live program at laurel park.

The first race on Laurel’s 10-race card on July 23 is a 5 1/2-furlong sprint claiming a sprint for 3-5 young fillies that will start at 1:50 p.m. instead of the usual 12:40 p.m. start time. The National Weather Service forecast calls for abundant sunshine and a high of 95 degrees on Saturday, and near-record temperatures approaching 98 degrees on Sunday. Laurel previously moved her schedule from Sunday to Thursday, July 28.

MJC acting president Mike Rogers said the track uses a protocol called WetBulb globe temperature measurement, which takes into account temperature, humidity, wind speed, sun angle and cloud cover to determine potential heat stress. It is different from the heat index which takes temperature and humidity into account, including for shaded areas. The Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration also uses the WBGT to manage the workload in direct sunlight.

“It’s used by all major sports, the military and the Fédération Equestre Internationale as a better way to determine if heat exposure will pose a risk to performance,” Rogers said. “We used measurement. It’s not just about temperature – 95 degrees can feel different in direct sunlight than in shade.”

Colonial Stockings | BloodHorse.com Track Profile”>Colonial stockings canceled its Monday, July 25 card due to excessive temperatures and heat indexes advertised. Temperatures are expected to be around 96 degrees around New Kent, east of Richmond.

Monday’s featured stakes are the $150,000 1 1/2 mile Colonial Cup on turf, which will now take place on July 27 as originally drawn. Live racing resumes Tuesday, July 26 at 1:45 p.m.

This press release has been edited for content and style by BloodHorse Staff.