Triple Crown cards boost May 2019 handle, but Santa Anita drops
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Nationwide handle on Thoroughbred races in May rose $18 million year over year for an increase of 1.4%. However, Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes days were up a combined $28 million, meaning wagering on other racing trended in the wrong direction outside of the Triple Crown cards.
Total Thoroughbred handle in May 2019 was $1.287 billion on 3,583 races with an average field size of 7.1. That compares to May 2018’s $1.269 billion on 3,511 races with an average field size of 7.3.
The field size drop made for fewer betting interests in May 2019 (25,317) versus May 2018 (25,477) despite 72 more races running.
Both Kentucky Derby and Preakness days showed strong gains, with the Preakness gaining thanks to 33 more starters heading postward a year after the card at Pimlico Race Course was a washout.
2019 Triple Crown
Looking at the top 10 tracks in terms of May handle, Santa Anita Park’s drop stands out. In 2018, Santa Anita had the third-highest handle with $140 million on 152 races, but in 2019 dipped to the fifth-highest track with $104.9 million on 126 races.
May 2019's Top 10 Tracks
May 2018's Top 10 Tracks
For more, see the complete spreadsheet: Monthly Handle - 2019 vs. 2018.
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