Officials with Hanover Raceway are looking to change post times at the track in an effort to increase betting handle and make live racing at Hanover more accessible to the younger demographic.

According to an article by Bayshore Broadcasting, Hanover has submitted a formal request to change its post time from 7:15 p.m. to 2 p.m.

The item goes on to explain that the track is looking to keep its traditional 7:15 p.m. post time for Dream Of Glory Night, which is followed by a fireworks display.

Committee Member and Councilor Steve Fitzsimmons has told Bayshore Broadcasting that the idea regarding the post time switch has come via customer feedback, but the track is also looking to make a change in an effort to boost handle.

The track believes that the earlier post time would make a day at the races more attractive to customers with young families, who would also not have to leave early to get their children to bed. In terms of wagering, Hanover officials feel that the 2 p.m. post would make its product more attractive to handicappers, as it would not have to go up against some of the bigger Standardbred tracks that are conducting programs of live racing at the same time.

Fitzsimmons said that Ontario Racing is examining the metrics related to betting on tracks’ races, and that Hanover is looking to boost wagering, especially since the track saw its handle fall three per cent last year.

The ruling in regard to the post time request is expected to be made by the end of November.

(With files from Bayshore Broadcasting)