Fair Grounds to open meet sans spectators

Fair Grounds in New Orleans has announced it will launch its upcoming season spectator-free due to the coronavirus pandemic. The meet opens Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 26.

Fair Grounds said it expects to be able to make an announcement next month as to when patrons can start attending the races. The track’s casino and 12 off-track betting facilities will maintain normal hours, according to the press release.

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The Thanksgiving season opener at Fair Grounds has long been a popular sporting tradition in New Orleans.

“Out of an abundance of caution given the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, and working with state and local authorities, we will not be opening the season to the general public at this time, with only licensed horsemen and essential personnel allowed to attend,” Doug Shipley, president of Fair Grounds, said in a press release. “We will continue to monitor the situation closely and hope to make an announcement soon as to when we will be able to share our racing experience with the general public.”

Shipley said officials are pleased to get the meet launched during what has been a difficult year around the country.

“We are happy to be able to present the Fair Grounds’ 149th racing season, featuring over $7 million in stakes, and continue this longstanding New Orleans tradition despite these unprecedented times,” he said.

The meet runs through March 28, 2021.