BANGOR, Maine — The opening day of the 133rd season of live racing at historic Bangor Raceway will have to wait until next week.
Racing scheduled for Saturday has been canceled due to track conditions. Simulcast wagering and other events around the Kentucky Derby will still take place as scheduled.
“Safety is the first concern: Safety for the drivers and safety for the horses,” Michael Hopkins, manager of racing operations at Hollywood Casino Hotel and Raceway, said in a press release. “Right now, the track conditions are too soft, but we are aiming for next Wednesday as our first day of live racing for the 133rd season at Bangor Raceway.”
Simulcast wagering at the Win, Place & Show Lounge under the grandstand will still be open for the Kentucky Derby. Derby coverage begins at 4:30 p.m. and opportunities to place wagers before the post time of 6:24 p.m. will take place both under the grandstand and in the Race Book in the casino. Hollywood Casino will be offering prizes for the best hat and attire. Kathy’s Trackside Cafe will be open, serving food and beverages throughout the day.
“Recently, our opening day of live racing has coincided with the Kentucky Derby, giving racing enthusiasts a fantastic day of racing and fun,” Hopkins said. “We will still have fun with the Kentucky Derby, and we have scheduled live racing on the other two Saturdays with Triple Crown events as well, so there is an exciting season ahead of us here at Bangor Raceway.”
Bangor’s spring race meet begins on May 11 and continues every Monday and Wednesday with a 3 p.m. post time, and Fridays at 6 p.m., through July 22.
Special Saturday races will be held on May 21 and June 11 with a 2:30 p.m. post time in conjunction with the Triple Crown events. On weeks with Saturday racing, there will be no races on Friday evening.
Independence Day will feature a special race card and a 6 p.m. post time, culminating with Bangor’s fireworks display over the waterfront.
Admission to the grandstand is free. Race programs will be sold at the track starting the day before racing for $1 each. For more information, visit http://www.hollywoodcasinobangor.com/Racing/Schedule.