Northlands Park harness meet ended on good financial note
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The closing card of the Edmonton winter harness campaign today brought a meet-high handle of $149,871.
"It shows there is some resilience left in harness racing," said Northlands Park chief racing executive Les Butler. "Given the economy, we are more than happy with the handle (today)."
The handle today is 28% higher than the average Saturday wagering total during the two-month meet. Adding to the lure of closing day, this afternoon's card also featured a Universal Studios promotion with one fan winning a trip for two to the North American premiere of Fast & Furious.
The upset of the day appeared to come in the ninth race when heavy favourite Willyourememberme crossed the finish line second in her attempt to win three straight. However, unofficial winner Judgement Day was bumped to seventh spot for interference - giving Willyourememberme the winner's cheque.
The Andy Bryant feature - named in honour of the former Horse Racing Alberta executive -was the eighth race on today's program. Cancer claimed Bryant's life in January, leaving two children and wife Terri behind. Terri made the presentation in the winner's circle today. "It brought back a whole lot of memories," said HRA CEO Dr. David Reid, who joined Terri in the winner's circle. "We lost a huge fan."
To view Saturday's results, click here.
(with files from HRA/thehorses.com)