Wagering handle on US racing jumped 10% in October versus the prior year, but that’s primarily a quirk of the calendar, it appears.
August handle lagged last August by more than 6%, according to the latest economic indicators from Equibase.
With weather taking a major bite out of the January racing calendar, wagering on US Thoroughbred races fell 6% versus the prior year.
Wagering handle rose slightly in May versus May 2024, though for the year to date it continues to trail last year.
April saw wagering handle on US races that was more than 5% below the April 2024 mark, as the industry continues to scuffle.
Wagering on U.S. races fell 8% in February versus the prior year, as the racing industry continues to struggle amid a changing landscape.
The Thoroughbred industry’s economic indicators showed positive signs in February, with wagering and purses both increasing.