Surrey, BC – Fraser Downs is happy to report that another year of double-digit increases in wagering was achieved at the Winter/Spring harness racing meet, which came to an end on May 3.
The amount wagered per program increased by an astounding 18% at this year's competition. The total wagering for the meet was $6.97 million, an increase of $613,000 and a 9.7% rise in overall wagering for the first half of the 2024 harness meet, despite hosting two fewer programs than the previous year. Record wagering occurred in the months of March, April, and May.
Kelly Hoerdt, a driver, had an amazing 30% victory rate, which dominated the meet in wins. Scott Knight came in second place with a solid 24%. Scott had some outstanding results this year, easily leading the group in terms of earnings.
Manager of Racing and Communications Dawn Lupul said, “We’ve had a lot of fun with the Fraser program this year. There has been great support from the race office and our horse people to deliver competitive racing while we continue to focus on the horseplayer. The response has been fantastic, and we are very encouraged and thankful for the progress.”
Fraser offers 15% takeouts for Win, Place, Show, Double, Hi-5, Pick 3, and Pick 4, which are among the lowest takeouts in harness racing. The programs include two Classic Hi-5s with a 100% carryover, an early and late Pick 4, and now an early and late Double with a special $2 minimum bet.
After a successful Winter/Spring racing event on the 5/8th oval in 2024, the track will now focus on developing momentum and getting ready for racing to resume on September 12 at 7 pm Pacific / 10 pm Eastern.