Charles Town to allow spectators in some areas of track

Charles Town racetrack in West Virginia plans to allow spectators into limited areas of the racetrack as of Monday next week, the track has announced, joining a number of racetracks that have begun to allow patrons ontrack in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a release, Charles Town said it would allow spectators on to the first floor of its grandstand and the trackside apron, amid signage “to strictly enforce social-distancing guidelines in areas where lines typically form.” The track made the decision following an announcement by West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice that fans would be allowed to attend sporting events in the state effective June 22.

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Racetracks in Louisiana and Texas have begun allowing spectators over the past several weeks, with some restrictions. In addition, Delaware Park is planning to allow some ontrack spectators when it opens on Wednesday.

At Charles Town, guests “will be encouraged” to wear face masks and “must respond to a verbal health screening prior to entry to the property,” the track said. Mutuel machines will be spaced at distances that will comply with social-distance guidelines, and the only food service available will be prepared food from the food court. Box-seat areas in the grandstand will remain closed.

West Virginia’s casinos were allowed to open in a limited capacity recently, and Charles Town said that it will add several self-service parimutuel betting terminals on the casino side of its property in order to accommodate bettors who want to wager on Saturday’s Belmont Stakes, which this year is the first Triple Crown race of the series.