Charles Town to open to spectators on Monday
Charles Town Races will reopen the first floor of its grandstand for live racing and simulcasting operations, beginning Monday.
The move follows an order by West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice that would allow patrons at live sporting events, effective June 22.
Closed to racing spectators since March, Charles Town will reopen not only its first floor to the public for wagering on live racing and simulcast signals from across the country but also will reopen its trackside apron for its live racing programs.
In working with state and local leaders, the track has developed a series of protocols designed to welcome back guests and staff in a safe environment. These new protocols include:
Social Distancing
- The installation of floor decals and signage to strictly enforce social distancing guidelines in areas where lines typically form.
- Mutuel windows and self-service terminals will be configured to meet social distancing requirements.
- The only food service to be offered at the outset will be limited to prepared food from the food court.
- The box seat area and second floor of the grandstand will remain closed
- Capacity restrictions for the Charles Town property will be in effect
Health & Safety
- Team members, vendors and racing participants will be required to wear masks and will undergo a health screening each day, including temperature checks, prior to their shift.
- Guests will be encouraged to wear masks and must respond to a verbal health screening prior to entry to the property.
- There initially will be one entry for the general public to the property.
- Mutuel windows and self-service terminals will be thoroughly and regularly cleaned.
- Sanitizer stations will be installed on the floor and be available throughout the facility.
- A fog machine will be deployed to disinfect and sanitize every night.
Live racing will continue to be held at Charles Town on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings with a first race post time of 7 p.m. E.T. Full-day simulcasting from tracks across the country will take place from Thursday through Sunday, with opening and closing times on the other days dictated by the number of tracks in operation.