Fort Erie has record handle, no positive coronavirus cases

Fort Erie Racetrack completed a record 39-day meet on Tuesday while remaining COVID-19 free, according to a press release put out by the track.

Despite being closed to fans, Fort Erie posted a record handle of $40.2 million for the meet, up from $29.9 million last year with 40 days. The meet included 15 days where more than $1 million was wagered.

“This season we had a backstretch community with close to 500 essential horse people, and more than 100 active staff members, and we were able to complete our meet safely and without any positive COVID-19 cases,” said Tom Valiquette, chief operating and financial officer of the Fort Erie Live Racing Consortium. “It was crucial that we were able to operate this season, and I want to thank all of our community members for working together safely and following our COVID-19 protocols. Through the efforts of every one of our team members, we were able to put on another successful season during one of the most challenging years in our history.”

Juan Crawford was the meet’s leading rider with 48 wins. Among his highlights were victories on Auntie Katherine in the Puss n Boots Cup and Molson Cup.

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“I try to make use of every shot that I get, whether it’s a longshot or a favorite,” Crawford said. “I just want to give every horse a fair chance and do my best for the people that I’m riding for.”

Melanie Pinto was second in the jockey standings with 37 wins, followed by Kirk Johnson with 33.

Julie Mathes finished the season as leading trainer with 29 wins. Her husband, David Mathes, took home the leading owner title with 11 wins.

Fort Erie has applied for 40 race days again next year, operating primarily on Mondays and Tuesdays, beginning June 1 and racing through Oct. 19. Fort Erie’s race book will remain closed due to the pandemic for the foreseeable future.