WASHINGTON — There’s a full slate of racing Saturday at Laurel Park despite the hot weather, but some adjustments are being made to help horses and jockeys cope with 90-plus temperatures.
Maryland Jockey Club spokesman David Joseph said the horses will spend longer periods in the paddock, cooled by fans, before each of the nine races. There’ll also be shorter post parades to limit the horses time on the track.
Joseph also said there’s plenty of water and ice available to keep horses and jockeys hydrated.
Saturday’s card features the annual race of amateur riders including 17-year-old Taylor Leatherman. She’s the daughter of Faith Leatherman owner of Winding Creek Farm in Frederick County, Maryland. Taylor is riding 3-year-old filly “Skiing in Russia,” sired by 2008 Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner “Big Brown.”
