Not fair! Would value your opinions

[Miss Z]

"I am sorry, but, I have another pressing engagement that day, and I cannot attend".

What is wrong with just a simple statement to that effect?

That sounds like the best solution

[Lobodeb]

I would be honest. "My personal feelings toward horse racing won't make me very good company at these races." I had that happen to me a while back too. Our boss wanted to have a company picnic at a race track. I told them not to expect me if that was the venue.

[Muddy4paws]

Havent you got a family arrangement that day?

[G535]

I would not go either.

[Jessika]

I would just tell him the honest truth! Or that you have a previous engagement But I would rather tell the truth than lie though you know?

[Pawsitive Thinking]

Given my recent admission in the dog house I won't be allowing myself to go anywhere near venues like this for a very, very long time............

They already know how I feel about horse racing so with my added incentive not to go I am sure they will be very understanding and supportive