Santa Anita to renovate dirt track in July

ARCADIA, Calif. (AP) Santa Anita will renovate its one-mile dirt track in July, replacing the existing surface with a natural soil that includes sand to ensure balanced drainage during wet weather.

New track superintendent Dennis Moore said Friday that more than 20,000 yards of material will be moved during the renovation that will take up to five weeks. The track will switch to the natural soil that includes sand being excavated during construction projects at Los Angeles International Airport.

Moore says the sand won't be mixed with any other material, which is a hallmark of the best surfaces at tracks around the country. He says it will provide a uniform and safe cushion for horses.