Strong rains are predicted to hit Southern California over the next few days, so Santa Anita Park has announced the cancellation of racing on Friday, 29th January.

The track had delayed entries for Friday while it monitored weather reports.

In addition to Friday's cancellation two turf stakes that had been scheduled for this weekend will be shifted to next week. The $200,000 San Marcos Stakes (G2T) will be delayed from Jan. 30 to Feb. 6, and the $75,000 Baffle Stakes from Jan. 31 to Feb. 5.

"The models are showing us three straight days of rain, with the heaviest hitting around noon on Friday," said Nate Newby, Santa Anita senior vice president and general manager.  "We've discussed it with our stakeholders and cancelling Friday in advance provides horsemen, fans, and employees the best scenario to plan accordingly."

Santa Anita will schedule extra races throughout the next racing week to make up for those that were originally scheduled for Friday.