Ohio Racing Suspension Extended Through April 30

Live racing in the state of Ohio will remain suspended at least through April 30, according to a March 31 release from the Ohio State Racing Commission.

The release comes in response to the continued spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has forced tracks across North America and the world to cease operations and live racing. 

"It is incumbent on the horsemen organizations in the State of Ohio and the racing permit holders operating as Racinos in the State of Ohio to submit a 30-day and a 60-day plan to comply with this directive (including financials) to the Ohio State Racing Commission not later than midnight April 2, 2020," read the release. "The Commission considers themselves a partner with the horsemen and permit holders in reaching a solution to the issues and stand ready to assist the parties in compromise." 

According to the release the intent of the directive is four-fold: 

• Prevent horse abuse/abandonment;
• Allow for consolidated feed operations;
• Prevent homelessness for those who temporarily/seasonally reside on the backside;
• Provide adequate exercise for horses on property needed to prevent injury potentially caused by confinement.

Any racetracks with operations still running on the backside or living in on-site dormitories were informed that they should remain open until further notice. Likewise, all tracks should remain open for training for "reasonable equine exercise."

"You should take all reasonable measures possible to continue social distancing practices," the release stated. "The Commission will continue to update you as pertinent information becomes available. Thank you for your patience as we all deal with this unprecedented and very fluid situation."