Century Downs (CDR) and Century Mile (CMR) Industry Updates
Project Updates:
- Century Downs Re-sloping/Grading of Racetrack: Status update: Completed. The track has been surveyed and reset to the original design with GPS heavy equipment by KLS Earthworks and Environmental.
- Century Downs to install insulation, heat, and assessable hot water in Barn #3, #4, #5, #6. Scheduled to be completed by April 1, 2024, or sooner. Status update: Completed.
- Century Downs procured the same Thoroughbred/Quarter Horse race surface material as used at the Century Mile and will be utilized for the fall 2024 Thoroughbred/Quarter Horse race meet. Status update: Completed.
- Century Downs installing racetrack lights. Scheduled to be implemented by April 1, 2025, or sooner. Status update: Initial drawings of light fixtures received. Permits have been sent to the county.
- Century Mile installation of additional Cameras. Status Update: Camera towers are installed, cameras to be installed in a short time.
Racing and Backstretch Updates:
CDR and CMR are focusing on best practices to ensure safe racing conditions for the Thoroughbreds, Standardbreds, and Quarter Horses. In collaboration with the horsemen and HRA, and prior to each race meet CDR and CMR:
- HRA will conduct a racetrack inspection confirming the track’s suitability to conduct safe live racing. Any deficiencies or recommendations identified will be accessed and addressed in a timely manner.
Update: Mr. Dempsey, the Chief Technology Officer of Racing Surfaces Testing Laboratory (RSTL), conducted both Century Mile and Century Downs inspections. Mr. Dempsey shared that in 2023, RSTL tested 47 racetracks as part of the Horseracing Integrity and Safety (HISA) testing. He advised that Century Mile & Century Downs performs well within the standard deviation of North American Thoroughbred race tracks.
- HRA and industry have established an A-Track Safety and Improvement Subcommittee to monitor and report on the progress and performance of the investments being completed at CDR and CMR as indicated above in point one.
Fun Facts – Did You Know?
University of Calgary is doning a study at Century Mile towards improved injury prediction by tracking of stride parameters and surface properties.
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