CLEVELAND, OHIO, April 15, 2011 – Thistledown has received approval from the Ohio State Racing Commission to adjust post times throughout its 2011 meet, allowing the Northern Ohio Thoroughbred racetrack greater flexibility in reaching out to new fans. The changes were approved at the commission’s regularly scheduled meeting on April 14.

“I am very excited about the opportunity to offer quality horse racing at different times in an attempt to showcase the experience for a new audience,” said Thistledown general manager Lee Dillard. “We also will use concerts, events and giveaways to market to new customers. We have a great product to offer, and I want everyone to see it. We will be the place to start your weekends.”

On Fridays from May 27 through September 2, first post will be 3:15 p.m. The later post gives Thistledown the opportunity to add the popularity of a happy hour experience, with live music and food and drink specials, to the fun of live racing

On the three Saturdays that comprise the Triple Crown—May 7, May 21, and June 11—post time will be 2:30 p.m., allowing Thistledown’s live racing schedule to segue into simulcasts of the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes, respectively.

The 2:30 p.m. post time also will apply to June 4, the day of the Ohio Derby (G3).

For the remaining Saturdays in May and June—May 14 and 28 and June 18 and 25—post time will move to 3:15 p.m. This change will then be evaluated to determine whether the later Saturday post will continue through the rest of the meet.

Thistledown’s live meet begins Saturday, April 23. Until the changes take effect, post time on Friday and Saturday will remain at the traditional 1:50 p.m. The 1:50 p.m. post also remains in place throughout the meet for Monday and Wednesday cards and for Thursday cards when that day is added to the race week in September.

Simulcasting will continue to be offered seven days a week, with doors opening at 11:30 a.m.

All times are Eastern.