Record Wagering Welcomes Return of Charles Town Races

In offering Thoroughbred racing in the Mid-Atlantic region for the first time in nearly two months, Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races saw track record handle for a non-Charles Town Classic Day May 14 as $4,330,203 was wagered on the nine-race program. 

Like other tracks in the region, Charles Town Races had halted live racing because of COVID-19 restrictions.

                                                         

The all-sources total for Charles Town's first day back Thursday—racing without on-track fans—represents the fifth largest handle in the track's near 87-year history, trailing only the Charles Town Classic events held in 2013, 2015, 2016, and 2019. 

"After the hard work of so many at the track, within the HBPA (Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association) and at the state level, we're incredibly proud to be able to re-establish racing for our community and our horse players," said Charles Town's vice president of racing and sports operations, Erich Zimny. "There was unquestionably a heightened morale at our property tonight, which is a very welcomed sight during such a difficult time."

Charles Town will hold its next live card May 15 with the first race beginning at 7 p.m. The Friday program will feature multiple stakes winner Parisian Diva taking on a field of ten in an allowance test that will go as race 8.