Despite an industry-wide decline of 5.5 per cent in wagering dollars for 2011, Saratoga Casino and Raceway reported an overall increase in all-source handle of 11.7 per cent after the close of its 70th season on December 11

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Wagering from simulcasting on thoroughbred and harness products, as well as on live racing, reached $61 million compared to $55 million in the previous year. The increase is in stark contrast to the industry declines of 7.3 per cent, 9.9 per cent, and 7.2 per cent in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

According to John Matarazzo, the track's director of racing operations, the substantial increase which bucked the trend was a direct result of additional handle generated through the track's interactive wagering platform. There was increase in wagering on the raceway’s live product in simulcasting outlets in the United States as well.

"Launching the platform has enabled us to expand into other markets and offer an additional wagering option to current customers. At a time when customer loyalty is at a premium, it is important that we provide our customers with all the tools they need…" Matarazzo was quoted as saying via release.

As a result of additional dollars wagered through the platform, overall handle was up seven per cent on products simulcasted into Saratoga Casino and Raceway over 2010.

Saratoga Casino and Raceway also showed a major increase in wagering on its own harness product through external simulcasting outlets. Handle from these outlets exceeded $24 million in 2011, up 25 per cent from 2010.

"Our races are now broadcasted to over 100 outlets in the U.S. and abroad. The influx of purse money through VLTs has improved the quality of our product," Matarazzo stated. "It’s attracting better-quality racehorses and top-tier trainers and drivers. As a result, we have more global fan appeal."

The raceway expects continued growth in 2012.

(With files from Saratoga Casino and Raceway)