Entries have been strong for the first two days of racing, June 10 and 11. Opening night’s nine-race card drew 86 entries for an average of 9.56 and Thursday’s nine averages 9.11 per race.
The announcement Friday of the lowest Pick 5 takeout (10%) on the planet has been well received as has the decision to ditch the jackpot final five for this straight pick 5 with the low rake. When no tickets select 5 of 5, there is a 25% consolation and 75% carries over to the next day’s last five thoroughbred races.
There will be a jackpot wager new this year: a 20 cent jackpot pick six on the final six races.
The Executive Order issued Friday by Minnesota Governor Tim Walz also provided some good news for venues across the state. Indoor entertainment operations are allowed to have up to 250 people, with reservations, in a contained area. It is a start to be sure but a challenge as well with so many race fans wanting to attend. A reservation system based on MVP Rewards play and loyalty is being implemented.
Racehorse owners looking to attend the races should expect the following guidelines to be in place on Wednesday, June 10 and Thursday, June 11.
1) Who can attend the races?
· Any licensed owner with a horse entered on the day’s race card can attend the races.
· No guests, family members or children will be able to attend in order to remain within the 250 person limit on track level.
2) What does an owner need to do to attend the races?
· Upon arrival at Canterbury Park, an owner with a horse running will receive a health screening to enter the property. Owners shall enter the property in the new entrance adjacent to the Casino. The grandstand entrance will be closed.
· Owners will have their identification verified against a pre-approved list of horse owners with horses on the day’s card and will be given a wristband that must be worn at all times while on Canterbury Park property.
· Owners, although not required to wear masks throughout the duration of their time at the facility, must have a mask with them for use in any areas of close contact and must have their mask on during their access screening and while in the walking ring or paddock.
3) Where can an owner be located when attending Canterbury Park?
· Owners will be restricted to the walking ring/paddock, track apron and a dedicated walkway between the two areas of the building.
· Owners can access the Bookkeeper’s Office which has been relocated to the Gift Shop. Canterbury Park requests they utilize our new ACH transfer option to limit the number of physical checks being passed back and forth.
· Limited facilities will be available within these spaces for the use of owners during their visit.
4) How long can an owner stay while at Canterbury Park?
· Canterbury Park encourages owners to minimize the duration of their stay in efforts to ensure the area stays below its cap of 250 individuals at all times.
Protocols continue to evolve and will be updated frequently throughout the 2020 Racing Season. We appreciate your support in assisting in these efforts so that Canterbury Park remains safe and continues to operate during these challenging times.
