Penn National Race Course was closed on Thursday as the racing community
mourned the loss of a starting gate worker who suffered a fatal accident
involving the gate before the start of the 4TH race Wednesday night. The
remaining five races carded for the evening were canceled.
“In light of this tragic accident, it was an easy decision to cancel
tonight’s races, as we all come together to mourn the loss of a cherished friend
and colleague who we all came to know and love over the last 22 years,” said
Richie Schnaars, general manager of Penn National. “The Pennsylvania State Horse
Racing Commission and Pennsylvania Horsemen’s and Benelovent Association support
the decision to cancel tonight’s races and join us in expressing our condolences
to the family.”
The circumstances of the accident are being investigated. Out of respect for
the family, Schnaars said the name of the starting gate worker will not be
released at this time.