The California Horse Racing Board on Thursday in Arcadia unanimously approved 12 days of thoroughbred and emerging-breed racing at Cal Expo, Aug. 20 through Labor Day, Sept. 1.
Because the fair is closed on Mondays except Labor Day, Cal Expo will actually race 11 days with a day-night doubleheader program Aug. 22, said Cal Expo racing director David Elliott.
The State Fair won't compete head-to-head against Bay Meadows for the first time since 1987. That's because the 73-year-old San Mateo landmark is scheduled to host its final program Aug. 18.
In the midst of redevelopment, Bay Meadows will close for all but training after the conclusion of its two-week San Mateo County Fair meet next August. Its final regular-season meet will be Feb. 6 through May 11.
Thoroughbred racing also attracts more fans and betting than harness racing. In 2004, the State Fair meet averaged slightly more than 9,000 fans, compared to fewer than 1,000 a night during the recent State Fair harness meet. Wagering at the 2004 State Fair totaled $19.6 million on live and simulcast races or $1.6 million a day. Harness racing drew about $800,000 a night.
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