New racing days for start of Arlington Park

Arlington Park will alter its 2011 racing schedule during the months of May and June by racing on a Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday basis before reverting to a Thursday through Sunday schedule for the balance of its racing meet in July.

The changes were approved by the Illinois Racing Board this week.

By racing on Wednesdays in May and June, the track will face less competition on the national scene since fewer major tracks run on Wednesdays versus Thursdays during that time period.

“Racing on Wednesdays during May and June will better position our races in the simulcast marketplace,” said Arlington Park general manager Tony Petrillo. “By the time July rolls around, more major tracks are running on Wednesday so we will revert to offering live racing on Thursdays, which proved to be a strong day on-track during the second part of our 2010 season.”

The total number of racing days at Arlington Park for 2011 remains the same at 86. The meet opens on May 6 and concludes on Sept. 25.

The track also will have live racing on three Mondays: Memorial Day (May 30), July 4, and Labor Day (Sept. 5).

The Arlington Park season is highlighted by the 29th running of the Arlington Million, which along with the $750,000 Beverly D. and the $400,000 Secretariat Stakes will be raced on Saturday, Aug. 13.