Woodbine Entertainment Group reported all-source betting on the live Woodbine racecourse meet increased 11.82% on wagering handle of $206,056,400 at the halfway mark of the 167-day meet.
The Canadian track attributed the upswings to increased wagering from U.S. bettors and an increase in the number of outlets taking wagers on the Woodbine’s races.
“It’s been a good meet so far,” said Sean Pinsonneault, WEG’s chief operating officer. “We continue to see strong growth in our product in the U.S., while our home market numbers are steady over the first half, year on year.
“The $100k Pick 4 guarantees offered on Wednesdays and Sundays have really resonated with players. With the strong response on these pools, we have been able to increase the guarantees much earlier than we anticipated and have also helped to generate more wagering in the other pools.”
The first half of the meet was highlighted by the Queen’s Plate victory of filly Inglorious.
All-sources betting handle on the 152nd Plate card was $8,768,145, and The Plate race itself drew $2,973,265 in wagers. Both figures were Woodbine records for a non-Breeders’ Cup event. Woodbine has enjoyed significant wagering increases on major race day events.
Also, in May, Woodbine celebrated the birthday of the great Northern Dancer, who would have turned 50 this year.
The 2011 Woodbine Thoroughbred season, offering racing Wednesdays through Sundays and Holiday Mondays, continues through Sunday, Dec. 4.