U.S. wagering up 3.9 percent in July

Total wagering on U.S. Thoroughbred races in July was up 3.9 percent compared to the same month last year, according to figures released on Friday by Equibase.

Total wagering during July this year was $1.14 billion, up from $1.10 billion in July of last year. This year, July had 10 weekend dates, whereas last year, there were nine weekend dates in the month. Handle is typically far higher on weekend dates than weekdays.

The number of races held in July this year was statistically even with last year. Average handle per race was also static, at $323,739.

Purses climbed 12.9 percent compared to July of last year, helped by continuing increases on the Kentucky circuit, where casinos provide rich subsidies to racing. The average purse per race in July was $35,281, up from $31,297 in July of last year.

The average field size remained below seven horses per race, at 6.94, compared to 6.95 in July of last year. For the year, average field size has been 7.19 horses per race, compared to 7.34 horses through July of last year.

For the year, wagering is up marginally, by 0.4 percent, while purses are up 14.0 percent. The number of races is up 0.4 percent.