PRESCOTT VALLEY, AZ—MAY 22, 2019—Year-round horse racing returns to Arizona on Memorial Day weekend when the newly renovated Arizona Downs racetrack kicks off its inaugural summer racing season.

The action begins on Friday (see related story), when the three-floor venue opens its gates to Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing with a season that continues every weekend through Labor Day.

The Memorial Day weekend grand opening is a four-day celebration that offers something for everyone: a Family Fun Zone, food trucks, and eight horse races each day.

First post time is 1 p.m. MT. With general admission $2. Kids 10 and under are free. Tickets are available for purchase at ArizonaDowns.com.

"Families are searching for new experiences they can share together without draining their wallets," said Ann McGovern, Arizona Downs’ general manager. "We’ve planned our entire summer season with families in mind, and we’re keeping it very affordable. We want parents and children alike who haven’t experienced horse racing to fall in love with the sport."

Arizona-based J&J Equine Enterprises LLC purchased the racetrack, formerly known as Yavapai Downs, for $3.22 million in January 2018. Since then, the owners have invested more than $7 million to get Arizona Downs ready for the 2019 summer racing season.

"There is a lot of excitement about Arizona Downs here in the state, and among horse racing fans across the country," McGovern said. "Year-round horse racing strengthens the industry and benefits everyone — the horse owners, breeders, jockeys, and related professions that will now be able to stay in the state to compete.

"And of course, there are thousands of fans who will be able to enjoy horse racing in Arizona throughout the year."