Churchill cancels in downpour

Churchill Downs canceled the last five races on the 10-race Friday twilight program because of heavy rain and the threat of further severe weather in the Louisville, Ky., area.

The fourth and fifth races were run under trying conditions before officials decided to cancel the balance of the card, citing "the interest of equine and human safety," according to an announcement made by race-caller Mark Johnson.

Consolation payoffs were made on all multi-race wagers involving the cancelled races. The pick six, which started with a carryover of $5,195, started with the fifth race, won by Bridled Path ($6), but Churchill ordered a full refund on all pick six wagers.

The cancellation was the first at Churchill since the Aug. 30, 2004, program was cancelled after four races.