The weather may have been good one day and lousy the next, but one thing that was consistent at the Meadowlands during the month of March: the popularity of its product with its faithful following.
“Our per-race handle in March grew to $217,555,” said Jason Settlemoir, the track’s chief operating officer and general manager. “And total handle during the month was up over $1.2 million when compared to the same nine racing nights in 2017, so we are obviously happy about that. Our Pick-4 pool has now gone past $100,000 twice, and with three big Kentucky Derby preps this Saturday, there will be an enormous amount of action in the building both day and night.”
The nine nights of racing during March saw 107 races, on which total handle reached $23,278,436, good for a nightly total handle average of $2,586,492.
The ‘Big M’s popular multi-leg wagers saw vigorous March returns, as the Pick-5 averaged a total pool of $75,201 while the track’s signature bet, the Pick-4, saw an average total pot of $92,581.
The Late 20-Cent Jackpot Super High Five, which will be offered on Friday night’s 10th race, has a carryover worth getting excited about. Those who decide to hang around for the finale will get a shot at the $172,812 pot, which they can walk away with if they are lucky enough to be the only player holding a winning ticket after the result is declared official.
Two more spots will be up for grabs this Saturday in the Meadowlands’ ‘Last Chance Qualifier’ for the World Harness Handicapping Championship presented by DerbyWars.com. The qualifier has a $100 total fee ($50 entry plus a $50 real-money bankroll). The format requires players to place a minimum of five $10 Win wagers on Meadowlands races. Players can register on-site Saturday up until 7:15 p.m.
Post time for live racing this Friday and Saturday at the Meadowlands is 7:15 p.m.
(With files from the Meadowlands Racetrack)