About a couple of weeks ago, horse racing fans saw their excitement put on hold when extreme weather forced race cancellations. Now, on August 13, Mother Nature once again stole the spotlight. This time, drenching the track and cooling the fiery anticipation of spectators. If we remember, just weeks earlier, on July 26, Ellis Park’s schedule had already taken a hit when a relentless heatwave swept through the region. With the safety of horses and riders in mind, organizers had no choice but to cancel two planned race days.
A similar situation has dominated the Indianapolis Race Course. A few hours back to the race on Wednesday, the production and sponsorship manager of the race course, Rachel McLaughlin, tweeted on X, spreading the hurtful update. She posted, “Racing has been canceled on Wednesday due to weather conditions.” The manager also showcased how Mother Nature indirectly ruined their happiness by saying, “Is anyone shocked by this? No. Idk what beef Mother Nature has with us, but I’d like to put it out there that we apologize for anything we may have done to offend her.” Actually, the cancellation of the race was quite predictable.
Racing has been canceled Wednesday due to weather conditions @HSIndyRacing
— Rachel McLaughlin (@RacingRachelM) August 13, 2025
It could have been predicted earlier that the races would be canceled, as USA Today had already published a weather report for Indianapolis. The National Weather Service in Indianapolis had warned of localized flooding and lightning across Indiana on Aug. 12. It was reported that there could be scattered thunderstorms expected to develop by afternoon, according to meteorologist Casey Crosbie. The risk of flooding was also lingering later in the evening as heavier storms moved in from Illinois, and parts of Indianapolis could see intense rainfall.
So, that’s why, understanding the forecast and on-ground conditions, Indianapolis Race Course has also refunded Pick 4 and Pick 5 money while canceling the race. Last year, on August 27, the race course had canceled the card due to excessive heat of 105 degrees.
This is a developing story! Stay tuned.
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