Arlington Adds Races, Increases Some Purses
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Citing higher than anticipated handle on its Aug. 15 Arlington Million (gr. IT) card and following days, Arlington International Racecourse announced it will card additional races daily and increase purses for state-bred races by $5,000. Also, the track will increase Illinois Breeder Owner bonuses from $1,000 to $3,000 until the meet ends Sept. 26.
"Due to the success of the International Festival of Racing featuring the Arlington Million, wagering on races on the day and wagering on races afterwards was higher than anticipated," a media release from the track said. "In addition, handle was greater than expected due to Arlington's ability to card races with larger field sizes and because Arlington experienced an increase in wagering due to the large Pick 6 carryover pools."
The release did not provide wagering specifics. Arlington's parent company, Churchill Downs Inc., has a corporate policy of not releasing handle or attendance figures at its tracks, except on special events.
"When we have quality races, they generate substantially more interest in our races, which results in increased wagering and in turn increases our purse structure," said general manager Tony Petrillo. "Handle on races during the week of the festival and on races in the following weeks exceeded our expectations."