When it comes to wagering on Standardbred races, The Meadowlands stands unrivalled. Averaging a nightly handle of $2.966 million USD through its first 75 race cards of 2024, it is the leader not just in harness racing but across all North American nighttime racing.
A major factor driving this success is the track's ability to host large fields, with up to 10 horses per race. This weekend is no exception, with Friday's card featuring 136 horses (9.71 per race) and Saturday's featuring 127 horses (9.07 per race). The overall weekend average of 9.39 betting interests per race is unmatched, ensuring exciting betting opportunities and the potential for large payouts.
“We are extremely appreciative of our horsemen for always supporting the entry box here at The Meadowlands,” said Jason Settlemoir, COO and General Manager. “Big fields plus big pools equal opportunity for horseplayers to make a score.”
Popular Wagering Options
The Meadowlands offers a wide range of wagers catering to both casual bettors and seasoned players:
- Pick-4: A signature bet with a 50-cent minimum and a guaranteed $50,000 pool, available twice nightly on races 6-9 and 10-13.
- Pick-5: Offered on the first five races with a 20-cent minimum, averaging a $54,676 pool and nearly $3,000 payouts for $1 tickets.
- Survivor Pick-7: A 20-cent wager on races 3-9 with a mandatory nightly payout. The average return during the fall meet has been $4,795.
- Pick-6: Starting in race 8, this 20-cent wager averages payouts of $6,407.
- 10-Cent Pentafecta: Featured in the finale, this low-cost “get out bet” has averaged a payout of $932.41.
Additionally, the track offers 10-cent Superfectas on 10 races per night, ensuring opportunities for bettors to strike it big.
Last weekend’s Survivor Pick-7 showcased impressive returns despite favourites dominating the results. On Friday, the wager returned $6,410, and Saturday’s payout was $1,042—underscoring the potential for payouts even with predictable winners.
With its player-friendly low 15% takeout on key wagers, The Meadowlands continues to provide exceptional value for horseplayers. Whether it's for the seasoned bettor or a newcomer, The Big M remains the prime destination for nighttime racing excitement.