Emerald Downs to race 70 days in 2016

The Washington Horse Racing Commission on Friday approved a 70-day racing season for 2016 at Emerald Downs. The meet will run from April 9-Sept. 11.

Racing will be conducted on Saturdays and Sundays for the first two weekends, with Friday night racing added to the schedule beginning April 22. There also will be racing on the Mondays of Memorial Day and Labor Day as well as on Monday, June 20, when Emerald will celebrate its 20th anniversary with a night card.

For the first time, Emerald Downs will conduct Saturday night racing. First post will be 6:30 p.m. on July 9, 16, 23 and 30.

Post time remains 2 p.m. on other Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, except Kentucky Derby Day, May 7, when first post is 1 p.m. Post time Fridays is 6:30 p.m.