Dayton: 2022 live racing season in the books
Unusually warm weather and fast track conditions helped close the curtain on the ninth racing season at Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway on Friday (Dec. 30).
After 70 race days, the 2022 live meet concluded as Dayton Raceway's most successful. Not only did the southwest Ohio track host the richest card in the state's racing history, but overall handle increased by $3.4 million in comparison to 2021. Four of the top-five single card handles occurred during this year's meet. The all-time daily handle record was broken on Oct. 1 when $1.2 million was wagered on the Hollywood Dayton program.
"We had an excellent meet," noted Director of Racing Jason Bluhm. "We have horsemen to thank for that. Nearly every card was at capacity. Quality horses and full boxes only help handle."
Bluhm went on to credit Race Secretary Gregg Keidel and the entire Dayton Raceway team for their hard work this season.
Awards were also presented to both the meet's leading driver and trainer.
Jeremy Smith was crowned the 2022 leading driver. In less than 730 starts, Smith tallied 149 wins and earned more than $1.2 million in purses. Alongside being in the money in 49 percent of his starts, the 42-year-old driver maintained a .331 UDRS. To add to his impressive stats, Smith earned the title with an impressive 40-win lead over his competitors.
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The title of 2022 leading trainer was awarded to Jason Brewer. After sending 282 starters behind the gate, Brewer scored 45 wins, 47 second-place finishes, and 47 third-place finishes. His horses earned over $546,000 in purse monies. Brewer's father, Jeff, captured the training title in two previous years - making them the first father-son duo to take the honor.
Racing will resume after the Little Brown Jug in September of 2023. For more information on the facility and live racing season, visit the Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway website.
--press release (OHHA)--