Hastings and Emerald create bonus series for 3-year-olds

VANCOUVER, British Columbia - Cross-border cooperation between Hastings Racecourse and Emerald Downs has resulted in a bonus series for 3-year-olds called the Northwest Triple. The tracks will award a $100,000 bonus to any horse that can sweep the three major races for 3-year-olds at Hastings and Emerald Downs.

The Northwest Triple comprises the $50,000 Muckleshoot Derby at Emerald Downs July 29; the Grade 3, $150,000 British Columbia Derby at Hastings Sept. 8; and the newly created $100,000 Getaway Stakes at Emerald on Sept. 23. Horses that run in all three of the Northwest Triple races will receive $1,000.

The tracks are also teaming up to award $25,000 bonuses for horses that sweep the major race at each track in three other divisions. The races are: the Grade 3, $200,000 Longacres Mile at Emerald Aug. 12 and the Grade 3, $100,000 Premiers at Hastings Oct. 8 in the handicap division; the $50,000 Washington Oaks July 22 and $100,000 British Columbia Oaks Sept. 8 in the 3-year-old filly division; and the $50,000 Emerald Distaff Aug. 12, and Grade 3, $100,000 Ballerina Oct. 8 in the filly and mare division.

All bonuses will be paid in Canadian dollars.

Hastings general manager Darren MacDonald said the Northwest Triple is a natural given the proximity of the two tracks, 165 miles apart, and their similar racing dates.

“We have some great racing in the Northwest and these bonuses should create a lot of excitement for owners, trainers, and fans,” said MacDonald.

Jack Hodge, vice-president of racing at Emerald Downs, echoed MacDonald’s sentiments.

“Our partnership with Hastings grows every year and the horsemen have a chance now to run for some nice bonuses,” he said.

Hastings, in Vancouver, British Columbia, opens its 52-day season Saturday, April 21. Emerald, in Auburn, Wash., starts its 67-day meeting the following day.