Out of an abundance of caution for horses, horsemen, employees and fans, the Maryland Jockey Club has moved Friday’s entire live nine-race program at Laurel Park to Thursday, Aug. 3 due to excessive heat forecast for the Mid-Atlantic region.

The National Weather Service issued an excessive heat watch from 11 a.m. through 8 p.m. Friday for the Laurel area, calling for dangerously hot conditions with heat index values of up to 110 possible.

Heat index is defined as what the temperature feels like to the human body when relative humidity is combined with the air temperature. According to the NWS, extreme heat and humidity will significantly increase the potential for heat-related illnesses, particularly for those participating in outdoor activities.

Laurel will remain open Thursday and Friday for simulcasting.

Also on the 10-race card are the $100,000 Deputed Testamony for 3-year-olds and up going 1 1/8 miles; $100,000 Alma North, a 6 ½-furlong dash for fillies and mares 3 and older; $75,000 Star de Naskra for 3-year-olds and $75,000 Miss Disco for 3-year-old fillies, both sprinting seven furlongs and restricted to Maryland-bred/sired horses.

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