Arlington Park picks new track surface |
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Wed, 07 Feb 2007 18:27
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ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. (AFX) - Racetrack officials have picked a new synthetic racing surface for Arlington Park, where at least 21 thoroughbred horses were euthanized after leg injuries during the 2006 racing season.Polytrack, which is made of wax-coated sand, synthetic fibers and recycled rubber, will replace the dirt track at the suburban Chicago racing facility, officials said Tuesday in a written statement.The $10 million project will be completed in time for the start of the racing season on May 4.'We are confident that our new Polytrack surface will provide the safest and best racing surface possible and will strengthen our leadership in the racing industry,' said track President Roy Arnold.The Polytrack at Arlington Park will be the same mix as what's used at Keeneland in Kentucky, a track that has reported significant declines in horse breakdowns, officials said.Three independent experts inspected Arlington's dirt surface and found it well maintained after last year's rash of fatal breakdowns. But the experts also said European-pioneered synthetic surfaces are more consistent and appear to be safer.Arlington Park plans a 94-day meet in 2007 from May 4 through Sept. 16. The park is owned by Louisville-based Churchill Downs Inc.Copyright 2006 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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