Golden Gate Fields Cancels Racing Due to Water Issue

Racing at Golden Gate Fields has been canceled for a week after repairs from a gas leak in the area surrounding the Albany, Calif., track damaged the facility's hot water system, the track announced Jan. 30. 

"There is no concern of a gas leak at Golden Gate Fields," said David Duggan, the vice president and general manager of Golden Gate Fields. "Unfortunately, there was a leak in the area Thursday. In order to repair it, the utility company responsible for the gas line had to shut off the gas to the track. When they re-pressurized the lines afterwards, it did some damage to the pipes that supply hot water to the facility.

"After speaking with specialists, it's highly unlikely we will be fixed this weekend, so in the best interest of our horsemen, fans, and employees, and to safely expedite the repairs, we are canceling both racing and simulcasting this weekend. We feel confident we can be fully up and running by Thursday."

In addition to affecting the track's food and beverage operations, hot water is also used by the several hundred backstretch workers who provide round-the-clock care of the horses that live in the Golden Gate Fields stable area. Portable hot water showers are being installed in that area for their use during this process. 

On the shore of the San Francisco Bay, just east of the Golden Gate Bridge, Golden Gate Fields houses more than 1,200 horses.