Prairie Meadows’ Upgrades

Prairie Meadows recently announced multi-million dollar upgrades in its hospitality and television areas.  The tote board has been renovated to include a pair of 9’x33′ high definition information boards flanking new LED odds and wagering totals on the infield tote board.  Atop the tote board is a 18’x31′ high definition Daktronics video screen.  The total number of cameras on the signal have increased from 9 to 14 for a fuller viewing experience.

On the hospitality side, AJ’s Steakhouse will feature an expanded lounge area, a larger bar and upped total capacity to over 200.  The backside kitchen, closed during last season amid much criticism from horsemen, will be partially re-opened from Wednesday through Sundays, 6:00 AM to 1:30PM.  Hop’s Lounge will also boast a thorough renovation for the new season.

Prairie Meadows launches its 2016 racing season on April 28.

Mystic Lake Derby Date Adjustment

Canterbury Park has shifted the date of the $200,000 Mystic Lake Derby slightly from Sunday, August 28th to Saturday evening, August 27th to better take advantage of the sporting schedule in Minnesota.  The Minnesota Vikings will christen their new home, U.S. Bank Stadium, on the 28th in a pre-season tilt against the San Diego Chargers to be broadcast nationally on FOX.  The slight adjustment keeps the newly listed race in its spot on the nationally racing calendar and maximizes Minnesotans ability to enjoy both major events.

Hawthorne Moves to Three Racing Days to Conclude Meet

Hawthorne Race Course began three days of live thoroughbred racing this past week as it looks for a strong finish to its thoroughbred meet through the end of April.  Racing will be conducted from Thursday – Saturday with post times at 2:10 PM.  The track will start to be resurfaced after the last race and converted over for the summer harness meet which begins on May 6.