Handle strong first week at Del Mar

Del Mar had an 18 percent increase in all-sources handle on opening weekend when compared to similar days on the corresponding weekend of the 2019 summer meeting, track president Josh Rubinstein said Tuesday.

“We averaged over $17 million a day,” Rubinstein said. “We were pleased with the results. It was competitive racing.”

Fields averaged 8.17 runners for each of the 30 races over the three days compared to 7.86 runners in 43 races over five days on opening week in 2019.

The bulk of the handle came from account-wagering sources, with smaller amounts from ontrack and satellite wagering. Del Mar is racing without spectators because of the coronavirus outbreak, with ontrack attendance limited to trainers and essential employees.

:: Play Del Mar with DRF! Visit our Del Mar shop for DRF PPs, Picks and Clocker Reports:

Rubinstein said track officials are “still hopeful” owners will be allowed to attend races at some point during the summer meeting, which concludes Sept. 7.

“We’re not giving up,” he said. “Without them spending money in the industry, there is no sport. We’re trying.”