Severe storm forces cancellation of multiple harness racing meetings

A powerful winter storm sweeping across large portions of the United States has led to widespread disruption in harness racing, with several major tracks cancelling scheduled race meetings as icy conditions, heavy snowfall, and dangerous travel threaten the safety of participants and patrons.

Between January 23 and 25, a blast of Arctic air combined with moisture from the Gulf of Mexico produced severe weather conditions across the central and eastern United States. States including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Illinois experienced significant snowfall totals, drifting snow, and temperatures well below freezing. The National Weather Service issued winter storm warnings and advisories across much of the region, with certain areas reporting snowfall in excess of 18 inches and sustained winds creating whiteout conditions on roadways.

The storm’s impact on harness racing was immediate. Tracks located in the storm’s path announced cancellations and postponements due to unsafe track surfaces, limited access for trainers and drivers, and concerns for spectator travel.

Tracks Affected by Cancellations

• Harrington Raceway & Casino (Delaware) – Officials announced that Saturday’s program would be cancelled after overnight snowfall made access roads hazardous and track maintenance crews were unable to clear the surface in time. Trainers were advised not to travel.

• Meadowlands Racetrack (New Jersey) – Continuing its winter meet, the Meadowlands suspended racing for Sunday evening after persistent snow and sleet made track conditions marginal. Management cited the safety of drivers and horses as paramount.

• Northfield Park (Ohio) – With Northeast Ohio under a winter storm warning, Northfield Park cancelled its Sunday afternoon card. Track officials noted that local travel advisories and severe wind chill factors made operations impractical.

• Pompano Park (Florida) – Though geographically distant from the worst snow bands, Pompano Park cancelled its Sunday night program due to staffing shortages brought on by travel disruptions affecting key personnel.

• Harrah’s Hoosier Park (Indiana) – Indiana’s largest harness track posted notice that Sunday’s races would not go forward as scheduled, citing deep snow drifts in surrounding areas and limited turnout from trainers.

• Woodbine Park (Canada)  — Woodbine Mohawk Park has cancelled live racing for tonight (Sunday, January 25) due to the snowstorm in the forecast for Campbellville and the surrounding area.

Across the affected states, industry participants reported deep snow cover on access roads and parking facilities, making safe passage difficult for horse vans and support vehicles. Many trainers and drivers elected to remain off the roads entirely as state transport officials issued no-travel advisories for non-essential vehicles.

Safety First: Industry Response

Track officials emphasised that decisions to cancel were made with both human and equine welfare in mind. A spokesperson for one cancelling track stated, “We have a responsibility to ensure that our drivers, trainers, stable staff, and horses are not put at risk. These conditions simply do not allow for safe racing operations.”

Harness racing regulators in several jurisdictions confirmed that make-up dates for cancelled cards will be evaluated in the coming days in coordination with track operators and horsemen’s associations. Some postponed stakes races are likely to be rescheduled later in the winter calendar, subject to available dates and weather conditions.

Forecast and Outlook

Meteorologists indicate that the core of the winter system will begin to shift eastward later this week, but significant cold air will remain entrenched across the Midwest and Northeast. Additional lake-effect snow and below-average temperatures are forecast through midweek, prolonging difficult conditions for travel and outdoor sporting events.

As the region works to dig out and repair infrastructure impacted by the storm, the harness racing community is focused on flexibility and safety. Industry stakeholders expect most tracks to resume normal operations once local weather and surface conditions permit, and will communicate updated schedules through official channels.