Contact: Mickey Ezzo
312-814-5017

BOARD’S CONSULTANT COMPLETES INSPECTION

CHICAGO, IL -- On August 8 and 9, Michael “Mick” Peterson performed tests on the main track at Arlington Park to determine if the track is consistent, as well as evaluating the suitability of the surface for racing. Mr. Peterson, retained by the Illinois Racing Board, is a professor and graduate coordinator in mechanical engineering at the University of Maine. He has worked on a range of equine and animal biomechanics topics including the impact of exercise on bone density and the measurement of inertial properties on the equine forelimb.

Peterson said in his preliminary report to the Board, “I would not expect the track to be a significant factor in either fractures or soft tissue injuries. At this point, the results are quite clear. All of my measurements indicate that the surface at Arlington Park is safe for racing.”

The base was also evaluated using ground penetrating radar. Peterson concluded that no specific areas of concern are evident and, “the track appears to have a consistent and fair racing surface.”