Spectators returning to Yonkers Raceway

(PRESS RELEASE) -- As harness racing resumes at Yonkers Raceway after a brief break this Monday 7 June, Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts announced today harness racing spectators can return to wager and enjoy live racing in person at the historic track beginning Wednesday 9 June. Fans will be permitted trackside with a limited capacity to ensure social distancing requirements can be maintained.

A regular racing schedule has been in place since 22 June 2020, but without spectators due to COVID-19 restrictions.

“Opening up the historic track to racing fans on 9 June is another positive step forward for our property,” said MGM Resorts Northeast Group SVP and Chief Financial Officer Ed Domingo. “We are committed to ensuring a safe and healthy environment at the racetrack, as we have done on our gaming floor, and we look forward to welcoming our racing fans back.”

Yonkers Raceway is preparing for an exciting schedule of racing this season. Upcoming featured events at Yonkers Raceway include two of the first legs of the Triple Crown for three-year-old trotters and pacers on Friday, 2 July: the $500,000 MGM Yonkers Trot and the $500,000 MGM Grand Messenger Stakes.

"We are so happy to finally welcome back our fans after this prolonged absence,” said Alex Dadoyan, Director of Racing. “Having fans back at the track enjoying racing in person is a great step towards fully returning to regular racing operations."

Live harness racing takes place at the historic Yonkers Raceway Monday through Friday with a nightly post time of 7:15 p.m. All wagering will take place outside in the designated area adjacent to the famed half-mile Yonkers Raceway oval. Races are simulcast and also available for viewing and wagering online.