Turf Paradise handle increases

Turf Paradise concluded its 2007-2008 meeting Sunday with a 4.8 percent overall increase in average daily handle on its live races, according to figures released by the track.

Turf Paradise averaged $1,462,999 daily in all-sources wagers on its races during its 153-day meet, compared with $1,395,468 during its 152-day 2006-07 stand.

While total ontrack handle was down 5.1 percent ($13,519,329 this season compared with $14,249,411 in 2006-07) the state's expanding offtrack system showed an increase of 5.4 percent for the meet ($12,750,487 this season compared with $12,102,337 in 2006-07).

Seth Martinez, 28, captured his second riding title with 144 victories, easily beating last year's champion, Glenn Corbett (100).

Keith Bennett, 43, won his second straight training title with 87 wins. Michael Chambers was second with 82. Dennis Weir celebrated his 12th leading owner title with 57 victories. Les Blake was next with 53.