Emerald Downs Scales Back For ‘97

Emerald Downs has decided to ask for only 125 racing days in 1997, down from an original request of 148 days.

The change heads off a potential dispute between Emerald Downs and struggling Playfair Race Course in Spokane over racing dates.

“I’m at a loss for words,” Playfair spokesman Dan Hillyard told the state Horse Racing Commission on Tuesday, adding he had prepared a raft of arguments against Emerald Downs’ original 148-day request.

The two tracks’ requests had overlapped significantly, and the commission traditionally hasn’t allowed two tracks to broadcast their live races by satellite around the state at the same time.

Emerald Downs’ new proposal of a March 27-Sept. 30 meeting would give Playfair the opportunity for an early fall season with statewide satellite broadcasting overlapping Emerald Downs for only one week.

One week won’t be a problem, Hillyard told the commission.

Playfair has asked for an 89-day meeting from July through December. The summer season would be live racing only in Spokane with a satellite broadcast on Wednesday only - the day Emerald Downs isn’t running.

Playfair’s fall schedule would be run with complete statewide satellite broadcasts after Emerald Downs’ season ends.

Because one of the three commission members was absent Tuesday, the other two decided to consult with him before approving Emerald Downs’ request.

Rail work begins

Work crews have begun installing the new Fontana rail at Playfair. Sleeves for the rail posts were installed Tuesday, and the first of the rail posts was put into place Wednesday. The installation of the posts should be complete by the weekend, with installation of the rail itself - boasting a wide, shelf-like body to protect a fallen rider or horse - to follow.

, DataTimes