Despite cancellations, Ellis ends meet with big gains

Gross all-sources wagering at the Ellis Park meet that ended Monday was up 18 percent over 2018 despite the western Kentucky track hosting two fewer dates, according to figures released Wednesday.

The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission reported total wagering of $47,682,201 on the 27-day meet, up substantially over 2018, when 29 dates were run. The per-day average was $1,766,007, up nearly 24 percent.

The increases came despite the fact Ellis lost July 19 and 20 because of oppressive heat and Aug. 23 because of flooding. One makeup date, a Monday, was held, drawing the lowest handle of the meet, $1.15 million.

Ellis reported purse payouts at nearly $9 million, or about $36,000 per race, a track record; the 2018 numbers were $6.9 million and $27,500. Purses once again included major supplements from Kentucky Downs through an arrangement of the Kentucky Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association.

On the racetrack, James Graham was the leading jockey with 26 wins, edging Corey Lanerie and Tyler Baze, both of whom rode 25 winners. The riding crown was the first on the Kentucky circuit for Graham, who has previous titles at Fair Grounds and Arlington Park. Hall of Fame trainer Steve Asmussen not only was the top conditioner with 24 wins, but also the leading owner with five wins.

Field size averaged 8.0 horses per race, essentially the same as last year, and favorites won at a 34 percent clip (85 for 250).

This was the first Ellis meet under the newly formed Ellis Entertainment LLC, the track’s third owner in less than a year. Officials with the New Mexico-based parent company said it intends to make major improvements prior for the 2020 meet and beyond, including a widened turf course, lights for night racing, and a massive facility expansion.