Paco Lopez captured his fifth riding title and Jorge Navarro his fourth trainer's title when Monmouth Park concluded its 2016 racing season Sunday. Quiet Winter Farm was the meet's leading owner.
With decreases in number of races and field size, the Oceanport oval suffered declines in both handle and attendance, according to figures released by the track Sunday. On-track handle at the 57-day meet was $22,431,306, a 26.59% decline over last year when the track hosted 58 live cards. Total handle also saw a 26.38% decline as $196,272,397 was wagered this year on Monmouth's races. Daily average attendance was 8,833.
Monmouth Park saw a decrease in number of races run in 2016, with an average of 9.87 per day over the 57-day stand. Last year, saw an average of 11.19 for the 58-day racing season. In total there were 86 fewer races this year. Field size dropped by 11.4%, with an average of 7.28 horses per race in 2016, compared to 8.11 in 2015.
“Despite the lack of horses, we still recorded numerous accomplishments this year,” said Dennis Drazin, advisor to Darby Development LLC, operators of the racetrack. “The entire Monmouth Park team continues to work hard to put on outstanding racing in a fan-friendly environment that is second to none.”
Drazin continued, “Horses follow purse money and our neighbors are working with a distinct advantage. Every state surrounding us, and most of those surrounding them, have alternative gaming revenues fueling purses. These casino-fueled purses has led to a decrease in field size and carded races. Obviously this has had a direct impact on our handle both on-track and in the simulcast network.”
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