Canterbury Park Cancels Thursday Racing Due To Extreme Heat

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Officials at Canterbury Park said live racing set for Thursday night has been canceled due to the expected extreme heat.

Thursday's projected high temperature around the Twin Cities is expected to get into the upper 90s, and with high humidity levels expected, the heat index could get as high as 110 to 115 degrees. Thursday night is "Buck Night" at Canterbury Park, traditionally one of most popular nights for racing.

Canterbury Park President Randy Sampson said the decision was made after talking with the track's chief veterinarian.

"The health and safety of both our equine and human athletes is always our primary concern. We also do not want to inconvenience our guests and race fans with a last minute decision," Sampson said.

Racing is expected to resume at 6:30 p.m. Friday with seven races on the schedule. Officials say they plan to add a race day on Thursday, Sept. 1, to make up for the cancellation, pending approval from the Minnesota Racing Commission.