London,
February 1, 2016 -- The Raceway at Western Fair District kicked off 2016 on a
high note, recording the highest single-month wagering total in the track’s
history.
More than
$7 million was wagered on the London oval in January over a span of 17
programs, marking an increase of 36% over the same month in 2015 when 16
programs were contested.
The Raceway
is just one of eight tracks that make up the Ontario Standardbred Racing
Alliance and all have experienced year-over-year gains in wagering this season.
“In my view these latest wagering results are yet another
indicator that the Standardbred Alliance is working, and moreover with
government support, the Alliance has the capacity to forge a promising future
for Ontario’s standardbred racing industry”, said Western Fair Association CEO
Hugh Mitchell.
The Raceway management attributed January’s high numbers to
a combination of factors which were assisted by good weather, a favourable
schedule and high exchange on U.S. dollars wagered into the Canadian pools.
“It’s a
month where a lot of things fell into place and it’s an achievement our entire
team is certainly proud of,” said Racing Manager Greg Blanchard. “Our goal is to
put out an attractive wagering product with optimal distribution in order to
keep growing our pool size. Customers have responded well this season and we
hope to continue that trend as we get into the heart of our racing season.”
Two of the
most popular wagers offered are the Pick-4 and Super Hi-5 – both offered twice
daily at a low 15% takeout rate. The average Pick-4 pool in January topped
$12,000 while the average Super Hi-5 pool was more than $11,000.
The Raceway
is operating on a four-day-a-week racing schedule (Monday, Tuesday and
Wednesday at 6:15 p.m. and Friday at 7:15 p.m.) for the balance of the season
which wraps up on Friday, May 27, Molson Pace Night.
The
Raceway’s annual Awards Night comes up on Saturday, February 20 at the Progress
Building of the Western Fair District.
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