Several cities in the Midwest and Northeast declared unhealthy air alerts from the wildfires in Canada affecting millions of Americans. In the wake of this, equestrian enthusiasts were left baffled when the recent race was called off in The Great Lakes area. The Midwest is forced to adapt to the new normal which is causing some last-minute cancelations. With a huge fan base depending on the ride-horse duos to brighten their gloomy day, no promises were made. Although the preparations were done for the racetracks to welcome their audience, many races were canceled in unison.
Saddened by the update, fans were further homebound by the risky update led to a mass shutdown through the region. What enveloped the region? And when will the racetracks begin echoing again with cheers? the question now awaits an answer.
News of race cancellations saddens the Equestrian community
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Due to ongoing air quality problems authorities were forced to cancel an array of events on Thursday, June 29. Three races in the most popular race spots Charles Town, Delaware Park, and Thistledown were also canceled due to air quality problems. A recent update from Paulick report claimed that these areas were situated where ‘unhealthy’ levels of particulate matter were present.
As the smoke continues to spread over the area, the air quality warnings are anticipated to last for a few more days in certain regions. On the advice of the veterinarians at the Delaware Thoroughbred Racing Commission (DTRC) and the HISA’s air quality specifications, Delaware Park acted swiftly in this situation by postponing the live racing event. West Virginia’s Charles Town said that it was in the “best interest of human and equine safety.”
As fans are left wondering if horse racing will continue, Charles Town kept their answers prepared. Further adding to their statement, the venue officials hinted that the racetracks will continue with their schedule from the next day. Despite how strange the smoke occurrence might have been, the safety precautions taken to protect spectators and horses were commendable. While the horses might be ready for the next day at work, there is still time for the situation to get better for the Americans.
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American cities experience the smoggiest of days
According to the National Weather Service in the U.S., wind is coming from south-central Canada which has active fire, hence the air quality is anticipated to remain bad. The worse affected by Wednesday’s wildfire smoke was Detroit’s air, which was one of the worst in the nation. Many states released advisories for pet owners, children, and vulnerable individuals to limit their time outside. Charles Town in West Virginia, Delaware Park in Delaware, and Thistledown in Ohio were all affected when haze blanketed the northern and southern regions of the US.
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In addition to the heat and the strong storms, it was projected that some areas of the Great Lakes and the East Coast will continue to see Canadian wildfire smoke over the coming days. The air quality is predicted to progressively improve as severe thunderstorms and smoke dispersion combine. Despite the drastic changes in the environment, fellow equestrians still yearn for the return to their races.
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