Weather is usually ignored at Belmont Park because horse racing is one of the few sports to have proven virtually impervious to it. Sometimes, however, even the best turf course is up against it.
The New York Metropolitan area met the first breath of winter Thursday, and it was an awful big breath, as the temperature dipped into the mid-40's and the rain came down and wasn't scheduled to stop until, well, it wasn't scheduled to stop.
The Belmont turf course held up nicely through eight races on Thursday's nine race card, but the racing office decided to move the Grade 3, $100,000-added Athenia for fillies and mares from Saturday, October 17, to Wednesday, October 21, rather than card a strong grass race that scratches down to a few main-track-only runners. This helps make sure the fans have a good race to bet on and the integrity of the Athenia is protected.
The fourth race on Saturday now becomes the feature, and it is a strong allowance featuring Biker Boy, who came back recently with a solid second in his first start since running fourth last April in the Grade 1 Carter. Also lined up are 2007 Pennsylvania Derby winner Timber Reserve, Honour Devil, Unbridled Danger, Gold Trippi and Hunting.
It should still be a great weekend of racing at Belmont Park, and for railbirds who like to see the horses firsthand in the post parade, there's a very nice umbrella for sale in the Clubhouse gift shop.
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