Live Horse Racing At Northville Downs Canceled Due To Winter Weather

NORTHVILLE (WWJ) - Old Man Winter is causing an upset at a local horse racing track.

The Michigan Gaming Control Board has called off races at Northville Downs due to the bitter winter weather expected Saturday night.

Forecasters say temperatures will range from 7 to 13 degrees below zero with winds 15 to 25 mph and gusts up to 40 mph, making the wind chill 27 degrees below zero or even lower. It is literally going to feel "freezing cold."

[Wind Chill Warning Issued As Temps Drop Dangerously Low]

A memo issued Saturday by Richard Kalm, the board's executive director, said going through with Saturday's races as scheduled "would not be in the best interest of the industry."

"The weather conditions will be hazardous to the health and safety of the horses, horsemen, and patrons at Northville Downs," Kalm said, ordering a stop to the race card.

Northville Downs will remain open Saturday night, however,  for simulcasting from around the country. Live racing will resume Friday, Feb. 20.