It is often the barometer, within and without, of Standardbred racing success, a single number: wagering handle.

At racetracks throughout Canada and the United States, wagering on the product is the economic engine that affects nearly everything - purses, operating budgets for racetracks and the long-term viability of a sport competing in an increasingly crowded gambling marketplace.

Increasing wagering handle has become the central challenge facing modern harness racing.

Unlike many other sports, the majority of industry revenue is derived directly from wagering pools. Operating within a unique economic ecosystem, racetracks receive a percentage of every bet placed - the takeout - with those funds divided among the track, horsepeople, regulatory bodies, and operational costs.

When wagering grows, purse levels rise and the entire circuit benefits. When handle declines, the negative effects quickly ripple through the sport.

The challenge is that these racetracks no longer compete only with neighboring venues. By Chris Lomon.