Prairie Meadows kicks off their thoroughbred racing season tonight with nine races comprised of 71 horses.  With the lockdown still in affect at Fonner Park in Nebraska where several trainers that traditionally run at Prairie Meadows are stabled and several restricted access barns on the backside at Prairie Meadows due to the threat of the equine herpes virus, the number of starters for opening night is a testament to the dedication of Iowa horsemen.

“The horsemen stepped up and helped us fill nine competitive races,” said Racing Secretary Pat Pope. “We’re appreciative of their support for the opening night card and we anticipate that entries will stay strong all season long.”

First post is at 5:30 PM, a change from last season.

Association Steward Dan Fick provided an update on the bio-security situation at Prairie Meadows. “We’re maintaining the highest level of bio-security as we continue to control and monitor the restricted horses on the grounds.”

“We are working very closely with the Iowa State Department of Agriculture and State Veterinarian Dr. John Sweeney,” Fick added. “There have not been any reports of elevated temperatures or related symptoms.“

Nine Iowa-bred fillies and mares will run six furlongs for a $42,245 purse in the marquee event of the evening, the eighth race on the card, which is scheduled for an 8:37 PM post time.