MJC provides update on cancellation policy, track surface

The Maryland Jockey Club has implemented a new policy regarding the process for cancellation of live racing programs due to weather and track conditions, and in a Feb. 1 report to the Maryland Racing Commission said the recomposition of the cushion of the dirt surface at Laurel Park is almost complete.

The new policy stemmed from the cancellation of live racing on Monday, Jan. 17, at post time for the first race at Laurel after jockeys told management they didn’t believe the surface was suitable. MJC Acting President Mike Rogers said the surface, impacted by overnight rain, appeared to be “responding” at 7:30 a.m., so management decided to try to race in the afternoon.

“Generally, it’s an easy decision to cancel,” Rogers said. “We want to cancel early (because of shippers and Lasix treatments) but a track can improve as the day goes on.”

Under the new policy, when there is chance of a cancellation, there is a 7:30 a.m. meeting that includes the track superintendent, general manager, several jockeys and several trainers. Rogers said representatives of the racetrack, jockey colony and training community must all agree to race for a program to go forward.