Turf Paradise has announced that it is ending its season immediately due to the outbreak of Coronavirus, and to assist Arizona in slowing the spread of the illness.
Recently Governor Doug Ducey declared a public health emergency and he signed a bill that would spend $55 million in Arizona to combat the virus.
The track's Clubhouse and Turf's network of Off Track Betting locations will remain open for simulcasting at other tracks.
Live racing had been scheduled to run until May 3. Live racing at Turf Paradise will resume in mid-October which is the traditional start of the season.
Rillito Park in Tucson has suspended live racing.
Turf Paradise joins professional basketball, baseball, and hockey leagues in suspending large scale events to prevent the spread of the disease. While there have been no documented cases of Coronavirus at Turf Paradise, track management feels it is important to be proactive and to put the health of the fans, employees, horsemen and jockeys first.
“The State of Arizona, Governor Ducey, and responsible sports franchise and business owners are all working together to slow or halt the spread of the Coronavirus. Arizona is at its best when everyone does their part in a crisis,” said Vince Francia, Turf Paradise General Manager.
Francia added, “Horseracing involves large numbers of people who must compete and work in close proximity to each other. It would be irresponsible to put them at risk of getting the Coronavirus. As soon as this crisis is over, we look forward to getting back to the business of providing Arizona with thrilling live, local horseracing.”
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