After Maryland Governor Larry Hogan had issued an order on March 15 to close all racing facilities due to the spread of COVID-19, the Maryland Jockey Club stated Wednesday that it will continue live racing this weekend. MJC is taking steps to minimize contact and exposure allowing racing to continue at Laurel and Rosecroft Raceway.
While Laurel had live racing last weekend without spectators, it had permitted owners and specially credentialed media to be on the grounds. Those rules have been strengthened to allow only “essential racing personnel.” “Owners will not be permitted access to the facilities, including the stable area,” a statement read. MJC had earlier restricted media without special credentials from the grounds. They followed up with a requested that horsemen make entries over the phone. “There will be no one allowed in the racing office except for racing officials.”
The confusion arose on Sunday when news broke that Gov. Hogan had issued the emergency order closing all racetracks, casinos, and off-track wagering facilities. When asked to clarify, the Governor’s communications director, Mike Ricci, called the order a “full shutdown” on Twitter. The actual order stated all facilities were closed to the “general public.”
First post on Friday at Laurel Park is 1:10 pm with a 10-race card. Fans can view and wager online.
Photo: MJC
