Gulfstream Park West opening-day handle up

MIAMI – Opening day of the 2015 Gulfstream Park West meet was deemed a big success by track management, with all-sources handle up 87 percent over the inaugural meeting held under Gulfstream Park auspices at the track formerly known as Calder Race Course last year. Total handle on Wednesday’s 10-race card was $2.4 million.

“We are very happy with opening day at Gulfstream Park West,” said P.J. Campo, vice president of racing for The Stronach Group and general manager of Gulfstream Park. “We were pleasantly surprised with the turnout at the facility and happy with the turnout at our simulcast rooms at Gulfstream Park, and our handle was up 87 percent over the corresponding day last year despite technical difficulties.”

Part of the reason for the big gain was the addition of three new wagering options: the rolling super high five, an early 50-cent pick five, and a $5 quinella on the last race. The super high five was a huge success, generating a handle of $74,890 on the fourth race after a carryover of more than $11,000 had built up over the first three events on the card.