Maine’s 10 Harness Racing Tracks Pushing to Finalize 150 Day 2021 Season

The Maine State Harness Commission will conduct a hearing on February 8, 2021 to award 2021 race dates to Maine’s eight pari-mutuel fairs and two commercial tracks. The race date awards are later than most years as Maine’s harness racing industry transitions from 70 years of racing at Scarborough Downs. Plans are being finalized to conduct a commercial meet at Cumberland Fairgrounds in 2021. "First Tracks is actively working with industry partners and the Cumberland Farmers Club to finalize 2021 racing plans. The acquisition, planning, and permitting process remains underway for a long-term home for harness racing in Southern Maine," according to Michael Cianchette.

Bangor Raceway plans to host a 2021 commercial meet, and Maine’s eight pari-mutuel fairs have all applied for their usual dates. While covid-19 may still affect how racing is conducted in 2021, the hope is that all tracks will be able to race. Maine’s pari-mutuel fairs are evaluating options for racing even if the pandemic prevents them from holding a fair.

Off-track Betting Facilites are Open

Maine’s off-track betting/simulcast facilities are open in Bangor, Sanford Scarborough, Lewiston, Brunswick, and Waterville. Please check with these businesses about hours and days of operation.

Deering Building (Augusta Office) Closed to Public

The Deering Building, which houses the administrative offices of the Maine State Harness Racing Commission (MSHRC), has been temporarily closed to the public. Please call 207-287-3221 for assistance or email carol.gauthier@maine.gov. Application forms may be downloaded from the MSHRC website and faxed or emailed for processing. Thank you for your patience and understanding.