Storm-related flooding prompts Gulfstream to close main track, relocate some horses

HALLANDALE BEACH, Fla. – Gulfstream Park closed the main track for training on Monday morning and moved horses from low-lying barns following a torrential downpour that fell throughout the area during the night, causing some flooding on track property.

According to local news stations, the towns of Hallandale Beach, where Gulfstream Park is located, and nearby Aventura were the hardest hit, receiving rainfall totals of 12.8 inches and 12.1 inches, respectively. Other rainfall totals in the area included 3.79 inches in Miami and 8.06 inches in Fort Lauderdale.

No injuries were reported to horses, backstretch workers, or customers at the track and casino. Due to the heavy rains and high tides, some of Gulfstream’s older, lower-lying barns were partially flooded. By Monday morning, water had begun to recede and pumps were being brought in to alleviate the flooding. The relocated horses were provided fresh bedding and feed, according to track officials. There was also a partial loss of power in sections of the barn area as a result of the storm.

The main track itself suffered no significant damage and was scheduled to reopen for training on Tuesday. Gulfstream Park is on Christmas break at the moment, with no live racing scheduled until Thursday.