Total handle on U.S. races rises marginally in May

Total wagering on Thoroughbred races held at U.S. tracks during the month of May was up marginally on a slight decrease on the number of races held when compared to the same month last year, according to figures released by Equibase on Thursday.

The total wagering figure reversed a steep slide in April, when total betting fell 11.4 percent on a 4.5 percent decline in the number of races held, during a month that had only eight weekend dates, compared to 10 weekend dates in April 2024.

Total wagering in May was $1.403 billion, up 0.6 percent from total wagering of $1.394 billion in May of last year, according to the figures. Both months had eight weekend dates. During the month, total wagering on the Kentucky Derby, the Derby full card, and the Oaks full card set records.

The number of races fell 2.2 percent, from 3,025 to 2,958. Average wagering per race was $474,220, up 2.8 percent compared to average wagering per race of $461,087 in May of last year.

The total amount of purses paid, $119.9 million, was up 2.4 percent compared to May 2023, when the total purse figure was $117.0 million. Average purse per race was $40,534, up 4.8 percent compared to average purse of $38,694 in May of last year.

The average field size dropped slightly, from 7.16 horses per race to 7.10 horse per race. Racetracks in the United States try to maintain an average field size of eight horses per race or better.

For the year, total wagering is down 4.3 percent, while the total number of races has fallen 6.0 percent. Paid purses are down 0.9 percent. Field size has been 7.49 horses per race.

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