Assiniboia Downs wrapped up an exciting and challenging 2024 racing season, finishing with a total wagering handle of $62,130,464 over the 50 days of racing. This marks the second-highest wagering total in the track’s storied history.
The final day of racing was highlighted by a mandatory payout of the ASD Jackpot Pick 5, which had a $236,529 carryover heading into the program. The wagering public responded strongly, adding $1.235 million in new money to the pool. The $1 payout for the Pick 5 was $1,765 for those holding the winning combination. Total wagering for the day reached $2,613,033.
The season began on a high note but was faced with the unexpected challenge of a precautionary 45-day quarantine due to an equine virus. This led to a revised racing calendar to accommodate for that while fulfilling its commitment to a 50-day meet. Despite the challenges, the track set a record for wagering on the Manitoba Derby card on August 5 just as the quarantine lifted with $3,743,784 wagered.
“We are delighted with the results from the season,” said Darren Dunn, CEO of Assiniboia Downs. “We had a great start to the season and had to make some pretty significant changes to ensure the highest quality product we could deliver was put forward for our valued customers. We are so thankful to all of the fans, horse people, and staff that adjusted with us and delivered a season to be proud of, setting another near-record wagering year in the process.”
Jockey Prayven Badrie was crowned the leading jockey and Lee Delaronde led the leading trainer standings in a decisive win for the 2024 season. This is the second title for Badrie and the first for Delaronde with horse owner Henry S. Witt, Jr. continuing to retain his multi-year crown at the top for wins and purse earnings. (Watch Prayven’s final winning race of the season here.)
The 2024 season also saw Assiniboia Downs implement another wave of horseplayer-focused initiatives including full 1% takeout reductions on the Exactor, Double, Triactor, Superfecta, Pick 3, Jackpot Pick 5, and the Classic Hi-5. Rolling Doubles were also introduced on every card. Assiniboia Downs also became one of the first tracks in North America to eliminate the run-up to the start on all distances and races, utilizing the Equibase GPS System, in partnership with Total Performance Data and Gmax Technology Ltd., providing more precise timing and distances.
Live racing at Assiniboia Downs will resume in May 2025. For more information, visit ASDowns.com.
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