With a total wagering amount of $1.36 million and a massive $13,400 reward in the Jackpot Pick 5, the 2024 season is off to a fantastic start.
With strong performances over the first two days of the 2024 racing season, Assiniboia Downs (ASD) set the stage for an exciting year for spectators and horseplayers.
A well-attended cultural celebration on Monday night saw the raising of a Treaty One flag, and the combination of live thoroughbred racing and Indian Horse Relay racing for the first time in the province completed the historic evening. After six exciting races, the total wagering amount reached $1.36 million. This represents a stunning 24% increase over the seven-race opening day handle from the previous year. As a result, average wagering per race increased by 44% as compared to 2023.
A fortunate punter won $13,400 on a meagre $0.20 wager in the Jackpot Pick 5, capping the evening with a magnificent payout.
ASD has announced that beginning with Monday, May 27, the next racing program, the Pick 4 guarantee will quadruple to $50,000.
ASD CEO Darren Dunn expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “The excitement around the opening day was over the top this year, and Monday’s attendance was one of the largest we have seen in recent memory. The wagering was fantastic, and the atmosphere was electric, especially with the Indian Horse Relay racing as part of the Manito Ahbee Festival and the historically important flag raise. It sets the tone for a great season!”
This year, The Downs revealed major improvements for horse racing enthusiasts. Takeouts have been lowered in the majority of pools by a full 1%, and the track is now among the first in North America to do away with the run-up to the start pole. Players have reacted extremely favourably to both moves. These programs demonstrate ASD's dedication to offering a first-rate, enjoyable racing experience.
On Monday and Tuesday at 7:30 Central / 8:30 Eastern, racing will resume. Wednesday night racing will be added to the schedule in June and will continue through September.