Emerald Downs in Auburn, Wash., has announced a 5% increase in overnight purses effective July 3. The increase, which does not affect the track’s stakes, is retroactive to the April 13 opening day of the meet.
According to a release, on-track attendance is 1.4% ahead of 2011 and handle is almost identical to the wagering figures for last year. Emerald Downs experienced an 11% rise in attendance during the 2011 meet and noted that attendance figures improved last July and August.
“We would like to emphasize what a great job the horsemen are doing at the entry booth, and commend our racing secretary Bret Anderson and his racing office staff for their hard work,” said track vice president Jack Hodge.
The meet, highlighted by the Longacres Mile (gr. III), runs through Sept. 23.
