Santa Anita Park will close its main track from December 3-10 to ensure that its new Cushion Track surface is draining at optimum levels for anticipated winter rain.

“We are just not satisfied that our racing surface is ready for the winter weather, and we want to be sure it’s working properly before the start of the (Winter/Spring) meet on December 26,” said Santa Anita President Ron Charles.

The Cushion Track surface, which was installed last summer, was well received by jockeys, trainers and horsemen during the recent Oak Tree meet, which ended last November 4. However, there have been continued concerns about drainage.

Santa Anita has solicited numerous track surface and soil preparation specialists, who have conducted a number of maintenance programs on the main track and water tests in the seven furlong chute. These experts all agree that it would be advisable at this stage to conduct further investigative efforts on the Cushion Track and its drainage foundation.

Although the same major components: silica sand, synthetic fibers, elastic fiber and granulated rubber and wax are present in every Cushion Track surface, the combination of these elements is custom designed to meet the weather conditions at each track. So too is the size, porosity and composition of the underlying rock layers that cover the miles of drainage pipes that have been installed.

“We just feel we owe it to the horsemen to do everything we can to make sure the drainage system we have provides the same consistent surface we all expected and were guaranteed. Right now, I just don’t think we’re there. It’s critical that we go into our winter meet knowing that when it does rain, the track drains vertically and allows us to be back racing on a safe racing surface in a very short period of time,” Charles said.

Santa Anita Park’s inner training track will remain open for training during this period of adjustment to the main track, and will operate with extended hours to accommodate horsemen.