Horse racing in New Jersey is back, baby.
After a suspension in March as part of the Covid-19 lockdown, the Meadowlands expected to begin its harness racing meet June 5 with races planned every Friday and Saturday night at 7:15 p.m.
But first, horses and jockeys had to prove their mettle. Qualifiers were held at three different locations, said Leland Moore, a spokesman for the New Jersey Racing Commission. “The qualifiers went well with more than 1,000 horses racing against each other in timed workouts,” he told GGB News. “Those horses will now be eligible to enter live races.”
Only essential personnel were permitted on-site on qualifying days; no owners or outside spectators, according to the Standardbred Breeders and Owners Association of New Jersey.
All personnel are given a temperature check at the stable gate and must complete and sign a Covid-19 questionnaire, said Rachel Ryan, marketing manager for Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment. Horsemen receive a copy of the racing rules and protocols that must be followed while onsite.
“Throughout this process we have worked closely with the governor, his office and the NJRC,” Ryan said.
The governor’s office allowed the resumption of racing but requires precautions that include personal protective equipment, social distancing, no non-essential individuals at the racetrack or stables, and cleaning and sanitization, Moore said.
The Meadowlands has posted a revised stakes schedule, including the New Jersey Sires Stakes for three-year-olds and the first leg of the Miss Versatility Series. August 8 is the annual Hambletonian Day, with post time at noon.
Monmouth Park opened its stabling facilities on June 1 and will resume live racing on July 3. Opening day was originally set to be May 2, and then May 23. The meet is scheduled for 36 days through September 27.
Freehold Raceway is not scheduled to race until September 4. The track runs through December 31 on Friday and Saturdays with a 12:30 p.m. ET post time.
