The Horseplayers Association of North America’s harness racing division (HANA Harness) has announced a 'Pool Party' for Western Fair Raceway's Pick 4 on Friday, May 27, Molson Pace Night at the London, Ont. track
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'Pool Parties' were first introduced by HANA in 2009. The concept is simple: horseplayers gather to bet a specific pool on a specific day or evening to show support for a racetrack which is being customer friendly in a myriad of ways. Previous pool parties for thoroughbred races have been held at tracks like Tampa Bay Downs, Hawthorne Race Course and others.
Western Fair was chosen because it recently dropped its Pick 4 takeout from 25 per cent to 15 per cent. In addition, the track has begun to guarantee its Pick 4 pools, and will be guaranteeing the Molson Pace Night Pick 4 at $10,000. There is also a new twist: Western Fair’s management has asked their horseplayers and customers to 'Pick the Pick 4' races.
The Pick 4 (called a 'Win 4' at Western Fair) will include the Molson Pace in its sequence, but the other three races are up for discussion. Horseplayers have often wanted a certain type of race in a Pick 4 sequence, only to see the race office card another. It is now the players' chance to be heard. Via a survey link, you will choose the types of races which will make up the Pick 4 sequence.
“We are pleased to support Western Fair’s big night” said HANA President Jeff Platt. “Picking the Pick 4 is a great idea and the track should be commended for engaging customers in such a way. We are excited to be a part of this and encourage all horseplayers to play a few dollars to support the track.”
“It is very exciting to be the first harness track to host a HANA pool party," noted Western Fair Raceway Assistant Racing Manager and Announcer Greg Blanchard. "In terms of having horseplayers choose the sequence, we think it makes perfect sense that players should have some input into what they want to wager on. We hope this adds to what promises to be a great night of racing.”
HANA Harness is currently working on a few items which it hopes will make the night even more player friendly. Among other initiatives, the organization is lining up advance deposit wagering companies to offer special rewards for the Pick 4.
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(With files from HANA)