Churchill Downs, Keeneland suspend on-track simulcast operations

Churchill Downs has suspended all simulcast operations at its track in Louisville and shut down its casino in the same city for at least the next 14 days in response to the coronavirus outbreak, the track announced on Sunday afternoon.

Earlier this week, Churchill had said that it would remain open for simulcasting, but it reversed itself on Sunday “in the best interests of our guests, employees, and the community around us,” the track said in a statement. The company said it will “continue normal payroll for team members during the 14-day suspension.”

The casino, called Derby City Gaming, provides subsidies for purses for Churchill tracks in Kentucky, including Turfway Park. On Friday, Turfway announced that it would continue to race through the end of its meet on March 28, but would ban spectators. The track closed its simulcast operations.

Separately, Keeneland Racecourse in Lexington announced Sunday afternoon that it had closed its simulcast operation at The Red Mile, a harness track, “until further notice.” The two tracks run the simulcast operation in partnership.

Keeneland also said that, effective Monday, its grounds “will be closed to all non-essential guests and horsemen.” The track listed “employees, owners, trainers, veterinarians, blacksmiths, and stables workers” as being essential employees.

As part of the restrictions, tours of the backstretch have been canceled.