"The demand that exists in smaller towns is tangible, important and something to grow the business on. It should not be ignored or minimized."

Trot Magazine was in Leamington, Ontario for closing day of the four-day 2013 racing meet. The Family Day program was a big success, with fun, entertainment and 11 competitive races. Despite just $11,000 in purses, the strong crowd wagered $41,102 on the program and gave volunteers great optimism for racing in the area in the years ahead.

The same demand was shown, according to Trot Editor Darryl Kaplan, on Labour Day at Dresden Raceway and Legends Day at Clinton Raceway. On Labour Day at Dresden, the $36,839 in live handle represents more than $13 bet for every man, woman and child living in the town. That’s roughly the equivalent of Woodbine Racetrack, in the Greater Toronto Area, handling $80 million in live handle on a single program.

To read the full editorial from the October issue of Trot, click the following link: Don't Overlook Real Demand -- Ne négligez pas la demande réelle.

Keep your eyes peeled for a special photo spread from Leamington's closing day in the November issue of Trot.