Due to an impending arctic air mass, Mahoning Valley has postponed its racing schedule for the upcoming Monday and Tuesday. The track management decided to shift these events to later in the week due to hazardous weather conditions forecasted by the National Weather Service. Monday’s races will now take place on the following Friday, while Tuesday’s have been moved to Saturday. Despite this disruption, the track plans to return to regular operations mid-week with a promising lineup of races.
The decision to reschedule was prompted by severe weather warnings issued for Youngstown, Ohio, where Mahoning Valley is situated. Forecasters predicted dangerously low temperatures, with wind chills potentially dropping below -15 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest periods were expected on Monday and Tuesday, with daytime highs barely reaching single digits and overnight lows plummeting well below zero. Such conditions posed significant risks to both participants and spectators, leading to the precautionary measure of postponement.
Racing activities are set to resume on Wednesday, with the first post scheduled for 12:15 p.m. EST. The day’s program includes nine races, featuring a standout allowance event for Ohio-bred fillies and mares. This race, covering six furlongs, offers an exciting opportunity for horses that have not won four races in their lifetime. Among the contenders, Banana Pudding stands out as the favorite, having secured victories in her last two starts, including a notable win at Mahoning Valley earlier this month.
By moving the affected racing days to the weekend, Mahoning Valley aims to ensure the safety and comfort of all involved. While the frigid weather may have disrupted the original schedule, it provides an opportunity for the track to showcase its adaptability and commitment to maintaining high standards of racing events under challenging circumstances.