When Batavia Downs kicked off its 2025 summer/fall session of live harness racing on Saturday, July 26, there was a notable increase in live attendance and the amount of money that bettors placed on races held at the New York track, both remotely and in person.
Batavia Downs reported a 29 per cent overall increase in handle versus opening day of 2024, and that included a three per cent increase from those wagering on-site. That on-site crowd filled the clubhouse and track apron and included many groups, families with children, longtime fans and stalwart racing aficionados who came out to bet and watch the New York Sire Stakes action.
Nicolle Fortes is the Director of Live Racing at Batavia Downs and she spent the evening trackside to welcome all the customers who attended and was very encouraged by the energy and excitement felt throughout the property that night.
“I think the increase in handle and the great on-track attendance is a result of the renewed focus that’s been put on live racing product," said Fortes. "In addition to the improvements we’ve invested in, we’ve also made a concentrated effort to increase exposure and generate excitement for this year’s meet. We had a great race card, including the New York Sire Stakes three-year-old filly pacers, even though we had to dodge a few raindrops along the way. I’m very happy with how the opener went and hope to continue the momentum throughout the season.”
Fortes also noted that the live crowd was engaged by staff throughout the facility to not only provide a memorable experience that night, but to also give everyone who attended a reason to return for more live action as a result of that experience.
Byron Brown, President and CEO of Western Regional Off Track Betting, was also on hand and liked the reception the return of live racing received on Saturday.
“It was great to see such a large crowd on opening night of the 2025 live racing season as our goal is to attract new fans to come out and enjoy a night of racing at our historic oval," said Brown. "I would like to thank Nicolle and her staff for making it such a memorable night. I also want to thank all our loyal fans and I hope to see them throughout the rest of the racing season.”
Racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Wednesday, July 30 and the New York Sire Stakes return one day later, on Thursday, July 31, when $114,900 USD in purses will be made available for the three-year-old colt and gelding pacers. Post time for both nights is 6 p.m.
(Batavia Downs)