The Raceway at Western Fair District wrapped up its 2014/15 racing season -– the first as part of Ontario’s new Standardbred Racing Alliance -- in record fashion this past Friday night.
The Molson Pace night program produced an all-time wagering record of $610,000 for the 12-race program, which was up more than 50 percent from last year’s total of $404,000. Wagering on the race itself rose sharply from $132,000 in 2014 to $196,000 on this year’s contest. On-site live wagering saw a healthy $126,000 put through the windows, up 26 percent year over year.
State Treasurer made history by becoming the first ever to capture three straight titles in the event since it became the Molson Pace back in 1992. His 1:51 clocking was a stakes record and just one-fifth off of the overall track record at the London oval.
Overall wagering and per race wagering at The Raceway were both up close to 20 percent over last year’s totals.
“We made a significant change with our post times this season, switching from a mid-afternoon product to a night time product with a 6:15 p.m. post during the week,” explained Racing Manager Greg Blanchard. “We thought the timing was right to make the change and it’s encouraging to see the numbers support that. I’d like to thank the customers and horse people that supported us once again throughout the season and we look forward to some exciting announcements ahead of the upcoming season.”
The Raceway remains open all summer long, seven-days-a-week, for simulcasting and live harness racing is set to return on Tuesday, October 6.
(WFD)