Keeneland concluded its 2017 Spring Meet on Friday with robust attendance and on-track and all-sources wagering results. On-track attendance for the 15-day Spring Meet, held April 7-28, totaled 252,247 compared with 262,197 recorded during last year's 16-day Spring Meet. Keeneland was closed Easter Sunday, which fell on Apr. 16 this year. Average daily attendance of 16,816 was just above with last year's Spring Meet average of 16,387.
Competitive racing with fields averaging 8.6 starters per race produced strong on-track and all-sources wagering totals this spring. On-track handle of $17,668,979 was down just slightly from last year's 16-day meet total of $17,974,896. Average daily on-track wagering of $1,177,932 was up from $1,123,431 in 2016. All-sources wagering on Keeneland racing totaled $137,399,556, down 5.6 percent from last spring's $145,592,372. Average daily all-sources handle of $9,159,970 rose from $9,099,523 last year.
“Keeneland's continued success is built on the contribution of many, from our horsemen to our enthusiastic fans, sponsors, media partners and staff, and we extend our thanks to all those who make racing at Keeneland such a memorable experience,” Keeneland President and CEO Bill Thomason said. “Their efforts reflect a community that takes pride in Keeneland and is passionate about horse racing at the highest level.”
Boosted by three multiple-win days, Joel Rosario captured his second leading rider title at Keeneland, accumulating 17 victories. Wesley Ward led all trainers with 11 wins to earn his third Keeneland leading trainer title, having previously won in the Spring and Fall of 2012. Meanwhile, Godolphin Racing closed the Spring Meet with five victories to secure its first title as leading owner at Keeneland.
Not a subscriber? Click here to sign up for the daily PDF or alerts.
