Live racing returns to Eldorado Scioto Downs on Thursday, May 12 at 3:15 p.m. The first draw is now complete and of note is a new Pick-8 wager, starting in race two.

The wager will have a guaranteed pool of $25,000, backed by a partnership between Scioto Downs and the Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association (OHHA).

“It is a unique wager that I don’t believe we have ever seen in harness racing,” said Gabe Prewitt, Caesar’s Director of Racing. “In a sport that routinely has a 40+ percent of winning favourites, the guarantee allows fans to have a shot at a home run score if they are successful.”

The $1 minimum wager with 15 percent takeout will have a 50 percent carryover net pool into the following day with a 50 percent consolation payout to best ticket.

The Superfecta, Super High Five, Pick 3, Pick 4 and Pick 5 will continue to have 100 percent carryover net pool into the next race with that wager. The 20-cent Player’s Pick 5 has the lowest track takeout at 14 percent.

Opening day, with a 15-race program, will have a Pick 4 starting in races one and 10; the Pick 8 starting in race two; a Pick 3 starting in races three, seven and 12 and a Super High Five in races four, nine and 15.

Free programs will be available for each live racing day the evening after scratch time on the Scioto Downs website. Program pages will also be available for all qualifying cards.

The 90-day live racing season starting on Thursday, May 12 will continue through Saturday, Sept. 17. All live racing days will have a 3:15 p.m. first post.

(Scioto Downs)