Charles Town approved for 179 racing days in 2016

The West Virginia Racing Commission on Tuesday approved 179 racing days at Charles Town in 2016. The season will begin Jan. 7 and end Dec. 29. Racing will be held Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights in January, February, July, and August. Wednesdays will be added during the other months.

The biggest cards of the meet will be Charles Town Classic Day on April 23, the Race for the Ribbon program on Sept. 17, and the West Virginia Breeders’ Classics on Oct. 8.

Jeff Runco long ago locked up his 10th consecutive training title at the current meet, which concludes next Wednesday. Ronney Brown will finish second in the standings for the fourth straight season.

Jose Montano is far ahead in the jockeys’ standings. This will be the fourth consecutive title for Montano, the Eclipse Award-winning apprentice of 2012.