Finger Lakes Raises Purses for Second Time This Year

Officials at Finger Lakes have announced their second purse increase of the year, which increases the average daily purses by more than 26% higher than they were in 2020.

A 10% increase on top of the 15% increase announced last month has allowed average daily purses to increase by more than $30,000 a day versus the 2020 season. These increases are possible due to Finger Lakes vastly outperforming projections for its gaming operations since coming out of a nearly six-month closure due to the pandemic in 2020. In addition, Finger Lakes was recently allowed by the state to resume a 20-hour business day after several months of reduced operating hours.

"This second increase in 2021 is another positive development for horsemen and women at Finger Lakes as they work to recover from a difficult 2020. This will also be an additional incentive for others to come participate in racing at Finger Lakes," said Finger Lakes general manager Chris Riegle.

Finger Lakes Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association president Chris Vaccaro added, "This is more good news for our membership and New York racing in general. These increases strengthen racing at Finger Lakes by increasing both participation and investment within the industry itself."

Finger Lakes has available stalls for suitable horses. Interested owners and trainers are highly encouraged to contact the Finger Lakes racing office directly at 585-924-1546 for more information.

Finger Lakes' 2021 meet runs through Wednesday, Nov. 24. Racing is scheduled every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday afternoon until the week after Labor Day. Thursday is then added to the schedule until the conclusion of the meet.