Maximum Security won the 2019 Haskell Invitational at Monmouth Park.
OCEANPORT – Led by the $1 million TVG.com Haskell (G1) on July 18, Monmouth Park’s revised stakes schedule will see 35 races in 2020 totaling $5,050,000 when the delayed racing season gets underway Friday, July 3.
Historically run as an invitational, the 1 1/8-mile Haskell will be contested as a stakes race in 2020, with nominations closing June 26. Haskell Day will now feature a pair of Grade 1 races as the $300,000 United Nations (G1) finds a new date on the calendar, adding to a day with six stakes events worth more than $2 million.
“We continue to develop plans to ensure the safety of our staff, horsemen and fans,” said Dennis Drazin, chairman and CEO of Darby Development LLC, operators of Monmouth Park. “These plans are fluid and will continuously be monitored and updated as necessary. We have studied other racetracks’ operational plans and are in a position to tailor those to the uniqueness of Monmouth Park and our geographical location as it pertains to the pandemic. Our protocols will address racing with or without fans and will be in effect as soon as horses return to Oceanport.
“In the end, all plans are subject to the governor’s approval and we’ll continue to take our cues from his office. Gov. Murphy has shown exceptional leadership throughout this crisis and I’m confident that a review of our submitted plans will yield a positive result for all stakeholders.”
Monmouth’s season calls for 37 live racing days Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays running from July 3 through Sept. 27. Post time Fridays will be 5 p.m., while all other days will start at 12:50 p.m., except Haskell Day, when first post will be noon. In addition, Friday, Sept. 4 will go with a 12:50 p.m. post, marking the final Friday card of the meet.
The Monmouth Park stable area is set to open June 1. Monmouth will continue its popular workman’s compensation program covering trainers stabled on the grounds. In addition, and just as in 2019, all trainers will be guaranteed $300 per starter with owners assured $500 per runner.
The article originally appeared in the May 7th – May 13th, 2020 print edition of The Two River Times.
