For members of the harness racing industry, spending time at the racetrack is a way of life. The racetrack is considered a second home to many, and a place where horse people and race fans are very comfortable enjoying the sport they love and reliving great memories.
For others, going to the track can be a confusing and overwhelming experience. This is where you come in and this is why the Bring A Friend event which takes place from July 15 – 17 is so important.
We are handing the lines over to you, our members and fans, to be ambassadors and promote our sport. The goal is to invite people who have never been to the harness races or haven’t visited a track within the past year, so you can teach them what it’s all about!
Armed with your racing knowledge, there is so much to teach and show a first-time guest at the track, but we don’t want to overwhelm our friends, so the Fan Club came up with some suggestions on how to make sure you and your friends have a memorable experience at your track’s Bring A Friend event!
WHAT TO DO AT THE TRACK
So, you’re at the track, you’ve got your racing programs in hand, where should you go before the races start and what things should you point out?
If the weather is great, outdoors is best, and as close to the racing action as you can possibly get is best for your friend to take in the intoxicating sights and sounds of racing. Grab a picnic table or bench close to the finish line if you can, or at least close to the track.
Before the races start, and between some of the early races, consider pointing out some of the following:
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The horses warming up – you can explain what they are doing & why
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The difference between trotters and pacers – if both are racing that day / night
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The trainers warming up the horses (you can talk about what their role in the industry is)
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The Track – starting point, finish line, winner’s circle; how many times the horses go around and mention the one mile distance
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The Paddock – get as close as possible or better yet, if you’re racing or if your track is offering tours, take your friend inside to see the horses, etc.
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The Toteboard – this large board with flashing lights and a zillion changing numbers and information can be intimidating; point out the basics – MTP, odds or payouts which will lead you into a discussion about how pari-mutuel wagering works.
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Saddlepads & numbers – talk about what info they correspond to in the program and talk about post position.
The Racing Program
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Reading a racing program for the first-time guest can be like reading a foreign language; don’t try to point out every last detail that’s included. Better to focus on the basics – name, driver’s UDRS, horse’s race time and finish in recent starts, class, and this year’s stats. If your guest is interested in learning more, then go for it!
Making a Bet
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If your friend is comfortable making a bet, you could set up a show parlay or pool between the two of you or your group, and take turns picking horses. The show wager gets their feet wet and maybe by the end of the night, they’ll be betting exactors!
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Walk through how to make a wager at a self serve terminal.
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If you want some information on How To Bet to pass along to them ahead of time, or give to them to read between races, click here for the WannaBet brochure.
The Race
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The post parade – your friend can see the individual horses and drivers as they are introduced; you can talk about advantages of having a good post position, point out some of the top drivers; talk about the harness the horses wear and the race bike.
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Get as close to the racetrack as you can so your friend can feel the sights and sounds of the race! Point out the starting gate and how the horses line up according to post position. Talk about race strategy if you think your guest is interested in that and be sure to check out the winner’s circle after the race.
The Horses
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If your guest isn’t interested in betting, you can talk about the equine athletes and the process for getting them to the races, how often they race, what they do during the week, etc.
Other Fun Stuff
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Food – always a big part of any social outing; consider making a reservation in the track’s dining room or patio or enjoying the trackside BBQ.
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Prize Draws – many of the tracks are having prize draws and contests so make sure your friend enters! Everyone loves to win free stuff
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Free programs and betting vouchers – many tracks are offering this as well!
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Cheering – get excited about the races and cheer for your favourite horses
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Good luck charm –if you have one, bring it!
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Invite your friend to come back to the races with you another time!
Thanks, in advance, to our members for bringing friends to the track and sharing the passion and excitement of racing. Here’s to making this year’s Bring A Friend promotion the best one yet!