Thoroughbred Racing Handle Down But Purses Increased To Attract Quality Race Horses

By Author: Lee Lane-Edgar
Total Articles: 365
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Equibase, the official database of Thoroughbred racing, released its monthly report on total wagering and purse money in the U.S. and the results were mixed.

According to the “Thoroughbred Racing Economic Indicators” report, $874,386,107 was wagered on U.S. races in November, which was a 3.5 percent decline from November 2010. Year-to-date wagering on U.S. Races was $9,970,704,337, a 7.1 percent decline from 2010.

While wagering has again taken a dip this year, it is much less of the free-fall that hit U.S. wagering during the last economic recession. According to a report in the Daily Racing Form, pari-mutual handle on Thoroughbred racing has fallen by nearly one-quarter in the last several years.

Traditionally, purse money has been directly tied handle. But with the advent of “alternative” gaming at many tracks, which helps supplement purses, horsemen are running for more money than ever. According to the report, $101,876,670 was up for grabs in the form of purses in November. That was a 6.6 percent increase from last year's corresponding month.

For the year, purses have totaled $987,513,084, ...
... a 1.7 percent increase from 2010.

The increase in purses in November was also helped by an increase in the number of race dates. According to the report, there were 392 live race programs in November, a 4.5 percent increase from last November's total of 375.

Through the first 11 months of the year there were 4,953 U.S. race days, a 4 percent decline from the 5,159 conducted through last year's corresponding time period.

One way to increase handle at the racetrack is to attract new horse racing fans. Racing is a complicated sport and requires a significant amount of fan education. There are numerous programs out there that help fans learn about the exciting world of thoroughbred horse racing.

The younger generation likes to learn by engaging and interacting – www.horseracegame.com is an exciting way for the next generation of sports enthusiasts to participate in horse racing.

There are different types of fantasy racing games out there, but if you want to participate in one that allows you to play either online or with a download desktop client, then we highly recommend HorseRaceGame.com. Virtual racing games with high-quality 3D graphics are usually not free. This particular free game offers a powerful entertaining experience while educating players about the exciting world of horse racing. We highly recommend this free race horse game.