Santa Anita's reopening weekend attracts strong handle

Handle figures for the three-day weekend from May 15 through Sunday at Santa Anita were strong, despite the absence of ontrack handle amidst the coronavirus outbreak.

The three programs were the first racing days at Santa Anita since March 22 because of the pandemic. The track was ordered closed March 27 when it was deemed a nonessential business by the Los Angeles County Department of Publilc Health. County officials announced May 13 that Santa Anita could resume racing.

Betting through account-wagering sources was $11,207,076 on May 15, $14,342,635 last Saturday, and $12,331,800 on Sunday. There were no spectators at Santa Anita because of the pandemic, a policy expected to be in place through the end of the current meeting on June 21.

Comparisons to the corresponding weekend at the 2019 meeting are difficult since the Preakness Stakes simulcast from Pimlico was held that weekend. In addition, there was pent-up demand from bettors who follow Santa Anita’s races since the track had not been in operation for nearly two months.

:: To stay up to date, follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter