Heavy and steady rain Wednesday forced the cancellation of five turf races on the 10-race Opening Day card at Saratoga Race Course. Later in the day, and based on a forecast for continued rain, the decision was made to cancel turf racing on Thursday as well. This includes the first steeplechase race of the season, which will be re-scheduled and run as the first race of a 10-race card on Wednesday, July 30. Three other turf races on Thursday will be moved to the main track.

Because the steeplechase race was scheduled to be run as the first race at the normal post time of 1 p.m., live racing Thursday will begin at 1:35 p.m.

In 2005, the New York Turf Writers Cup, the biggest steeplechase race of the season, was delayed two days because of like conditions.

Last year, nearly perfect weather at Saratoga accounted for all but six scheduled turf races to be run.

On Tuesday, the New York State Racing and Wagering Board approved Rolling Daily Doubles and Superfectas on every race that qualifies.

The additional Superfectas will be added for Thursday's card at Saratoga Race Course. .