This past weekend, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced horseracing tracks could reopen June 1 without spectators.

Jeff Gural, chairman of American Racing & Entertainment, which owns both Vernon and Tioga Downs, said he’d been in contact with the governor for a few weeks.

"He was receptive to the argument that a, it's an outdoor activity and b, these people are coming to work every morning and taking care of the horses, jogging them, training them, feeding them," said Gural.

Like many industries during this difficult time, Gural said horseracing has taken a financial hit from the pandemic.

"Unlike restaurants, where somebody can just furlough all the workers and turn out the lights, the expenses for taking care of the horses are the same whether you're racing or not racing," said Gural.

Both facilities are hoping to resume races around June 1, but that is dependent on when Standardbred horses will be allowed to qualify.

"We're hoping that they'll let us qualify a few days before June 1st, and then we could start up right away, if not, then we would have to have qualifiers June 1 and probably start a week later, so we're just waiting for clarification,” Gural said.

As for the tracks’ finances without spectators, fans will still be able to place wagers online.

"We get a small piece of the proceeds from that. It's not enough to cover the cost, but it's better than nothing,” says Gural.

While the casinos at both locations remain closed, Gural said there’s a plan in place for safely reopening in the future.

"When it's appropriate, we would submit that plan to the Gaming Commission so that when Phase Four rolls around, we'd be allowed to open," Gural said.

Races are anticipated to happen two to three times a week, at times with the most expected simulcasting business.