Calder Casino & Race Course announced Nov. 19 a reduction to overnight purses at the current Tropical Meet, as well as changes to the meet’s stakes schedule as part of the ongoing effort to manage the track’s overall position.
Lower than expected handle trends over the past four weeks prompted the decision to reverse the 10% purse increase that was announced in June and was to be effective Monday, Nov. 22 through the end of the current Tropical Meet.
Also announced is the cancellation of the $100,000 Kenny Noe Jr. Handicap (gr. III) on Dec. 4; the rescheduling of the $100,000 La Prevoyante Handicap (gr. III) from Dec. 11 to Jan. 2, 2011; and rescheduling of the $100,000 Stage Door Betty Handicap (gr. III) from Dec. 18 to Jan. 1, 2011.
Calder’s vice president and general manager John Marshall stated, “We work diligently throughout the year to manage purses responsibly. Recent business trends make these adjustments necessary to achieve a responsible purse balance and assure a vibrant beginning to the next Calder meet.”
Officials report that even after this adjustment, purses paid during Calder, Tropical, and overall are significantly higher than the last two years.
Racing secretary Mike Anifantis added, “By rescheduling the two stakes to January 1st and 2nd, horsemen will have well-positioned graded black-type opportunities for their fillies and mares. We understand the importance of these races to owners and breeders, including their national appeal to our fans for this and future years.”
Calder officials also announced earlier this week the addition of Jan. 4 as a live race day to the 2010-11 Tropical Meet. Jan. 4 will be the final day of the Tropical Meet.