For the second consecutive year, the Woodbine Entertainment Group has announced a sharp increase in betting handle on its live thoroughbred

racing season.

The 167-day 2010 meet, which concluded December 5, saw an 'all-sources' total of $393,507,233 wagered, a stunning 8.9 per cent overall rise from the $361,435,208 figure recorded from the 167 dates offered in 2009.

It comes after a solid seven per cent hike in handle seen in 2009 over 2008.

"We are pleased with the sustained gains in handle," said WEG Chief Operating Officer Sean Pinsonneault. "To see a seven per cent rise in 2009 and an 8.9 per cent jump this year against the softness in the betting marketplace is significant."

Similar to last year's gains, much of the $32 million-plus increase in betting came from U.S. sources.

"Customers have responded very well to the strong fundamentals of Woodbine's racing, guaranteed pools and expanded distribution," Pinsonneault said. "This positive momentum has also resulted in record-setting handles in our key stakes events."

The Queen's Plate, Woodbine's signature race, was graced with the presence of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for its 151st running in 2010. The $6,815,673 handle number recorded for the card was a record. The Woodbine Mile ($5,619,808) and Pattison Canadian International ($6,322,804) cards also shattered handle marks.

While the average field size at the 167-day Woodbine race meet was down to 8.7 horses per race from the 9.1 figure recorded in 2009, it still remained one of the highest in North America.

Overnight and stakes purses, including supplements and nominations fees, paid out in 2010 totalled $86.9 million, an excellent $520,896 per card.

"Our strong purse structure and facilities have contributed to Woodbine's ability to attract North America's best horses and trainers, which in turn gives us a unique profile among racing's core fans," Pinsonneault said.

The 2011 Woodbine Thoroughbred season is scheduled for 167 dates, beginning Saturday, April 2.

Standardbred racing continues at Woodbine through the winter, including a special Boxing Day card which will feature a 1:20 p.m. first-race post time.

(WEG)