The racing season at Turf Paradise in Phoenix, AZ, initially slated to commence on Saturday, November 2, has been rescheduled to start next Monday, November 11, following a last-minute intervention from HISA. This announcement was made in a joint statement from the track and the Arizona Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association (HBPA) late Sunday night.
On October 31, HISA raised concerns regarding the condition of the racetrack surface, prompting officials to postpone the season's start. An inspection team from HISA is scheduled to be on-site Monday to conduct tests on Tuesday. Training is expected to resume by Wednesday and continue through the weekend, leading up to the first live racing event on Monday.
Arizona HBPA President Lloyd Yother commented, “The horsemen and Turf Paradise management are collaborating closely with HISA and the Arizona Racing Commission to ensure a safe race meet.”
Turf Paradise General Manager Vince Francia expressed gratitude, stating, “We extend our sincere thanks to our track maintenance crews, horsemen, and everyone involved in preparing for another exciting season of racing.”
The two stakes races that were originally planned for November 2—the $40,000 Jack Coady Sr. Handicap and the $40,000 Hank Mills Jr. Handicap—will now take place on Wednesday, November 13, and Thursday, November 14, respectively.