Opening day controversy at Cal Expo

Things rarely go according to plan, especially on day 1. However, the starting gate malfunction that was affecting racing at Cal Expo left many scratching their heads. A starting gate malfunction is not uncommon, but the way it was handled (or not handled) seemed to be the wrong course. 

It is clear as day that Semicolon (7) didn’t receive a far start because of the starting gate. Even the track announcer can be heard making a note of it as the field of pacers fought for early possession. 

The interfered-with horse went off as the 8/5 betting favourite and received over $1500 of the $5,265 win pool. The first race also kicked off the early Pick 5 wager. 

In instances like this, how was there no action given to the betting public? Sure, Semicolon was able to still finish third place but the argument can be made that he could have had a better chance to win if he wasn’t interfered with. Legitimacy is essential when it comes to gambling and events like this surely call it into question. 

Racing returns to Cal Expo on Friday, Dec. 20.