Assiniboia Downs kicked off its 52nd season of live racing Sunday with one of the largest crowds anyone could recall in more than a decade. More than 6,000 fans jammed the three level complex betting more $188,000, a 30 per cent increase over last year’s wagering. The parking lot was jammed, something not seen since the early 1980’s.
“What a great start to the season,” said general manager Sharon Gulyas. “I can’t imagine the crowd having been any better.”
Top United States female jockey Vicky Baze was the only jockey to score a double on the day when she booted home Rum Customer to take the 5th ($5.40) and then followed it up with a win in the nightcap with Datura in the 8th ($22.40).
Cherokee’s Goal, for trainer Clayton Gray and Manitoba jockey Alyssa Harder, took the featured 3rd race. With a last to first move, the bay colt made it two wins in a row for his career. Cherokee’s Goal returned $9.80 to win for a $2 wager.
In other action, 2009 leading trainer, Tom Gardipy Jr. scored two wins on the afternoon as Sparky’s Rule took the second ($22.60) and then Nice Roundup finished first in the 7th ($6.80).
Live thoroughbred racing returns on the weekend—Friday, May 14 and Saturday, May 15 at 7:00 p.m. Then the regular WEDFRISAT (Wednesday, Friday, Saturday) schedule kicks in.
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