Photo: Evergreen Park

By Shane Clausing

Evergreen park

Limited spectators allowed for horse racing at Evergreen Park

Jul 8, 2020 | 12:31 PM

Evergreen Park has been given approval by the Province of Alberta and Alberta Health Services to allow spectators in the stands for horse racing for the duration of the 2020 season.

The 2,500-person grandstand that surrounds the track will be limited to a maximum of 200 people to adhere with the provinces guidelines of limiting outdoor gatherings to a maximum of that amount.

Seats will be general admission and physical distancing practices will be applied.

Dan Gorman, the General Manager at Evergreen Park, says because of restrictions, the fan experience will look different.

“We are requiring everyone (who attends) to wear a mask. We are doing social distancing (and) we will not have a kid’s program onsite, but we will have a food truck.

Meaningful Mementos

Remembering Someone You've Lost at Christmas

Dec 03, 2024

Seasonal Sorrow

How Do You Get Through The Holidays When You're Grieving?

Nov 01, 2024

Upcoming Events at Oliver's

Grief & Loss and Estate Planning Seminars

Oct 02, 2024

“For those that are not comfortable to come out in person, we’ve got a couple online platforms where people can go and bet online to the races as well.”

Racing fans that are watching from home will be able to do so by watching a live stream that Evergreen Park has set-up on their website.

Live betting for horse racing this year will take place using the websites and apps for HPI (racing) and Express Bet.

It is the first time that the track has used online betting. Gorman says that the online betting has been successful at other tracks that have been operating across the country, especially during COVID-19.

Gorman adds that those attending the races will also be able to bet at the track, however only a limited amount of betting counters will be available for use on race day.

Gorman says he’s confident that the track will be able to put together a great experience for visitors, but adds that guests have to play their part in order to make it successful.

“We got the grandstands marked off and spaced out. We got all the plexiglass in place and proper dividing and social distancing is all in place per AHS protocols.”

“We are very pleased with how we’ve got everything set up, but again we are asking for everyone’s help that comes out to the horse racing. We want this to continue and be successful, and that means that we are following Alberta Health Services protocol and safety requirements.”

Gorman mentioned that the park has increased the amount of security and staff to ensure that visitors to the park are following the proper guidelines.

Those that are interested in attending the races this weekend, will be able to get tickets at Evergreen Park’s website. Tickets are free, but you must have one in order to attend the event. The park also says that there will be a limited supply of tickets available at the front gate on race day but encourages visitors to book in advance.

The first racing events take place this weekend on July 11 and 12 and have already sold-out. However, a limited supply of tickets will still be available at the front gate on race day.

Tickets for next weekends events on July 18 and 19 will go on sale later next week.

The season racing season lasts until August 23.