Pimlico Shows Increases in Spring Handle

The Maryland Jockey Club announced today that Pimlico Race Course’s 37-day spring meet, highlighted by Triple Crown winner American Pharoah’s impressive victory in the 140th Preakness Stakes, ended Saturday with sharp increases over last year in total and average handle.

Total wagering was $207.1 million, up 25.5 percent from the 2014 spring meet while average handle increased 9.7 percent, from $4.706 million to $5.164 million. Total handle on Preakness Day also increased, from $83.786 million to $85.161 million while total handle on Black-Eyed Susan Day rose 63 percent, from $12.507 million to $18.488 million.

Pimlico’s increases come three months after the Maryland Jockey Club announced total average handle was up 14.6 percent during Laurel’s winter meet and 15.8 percent on its live product.

“The numbers once again support our belief that there is potential for the Thoroughbred industry in Maryland to grow and prosper,” said the Maryland Jockey Club’s President and General Manager Sal Sinatra. “Improvements to both our facilities, listening to our fans, and the support we have received from the horsemen have all helped in generating more interest in our sport and the industry. We believe this is only the start. There is more room to grow our industry in Maryland and the surrounding areas, excite our fan base, and bring new people to this great sport.”