After a two year absence due to COVID-19 restrictions, Hastings Racecourse was greeted with a full grandstand of guests that witnessed a very good-eight race program on an unexpected sunny afternoon. There was excitement, loud cheers and electricity in the building which was something that was not seen or heard since the last full season of racing in 2019.
There was one significant missing piece to a successful opening day and that was the presence of Glen Todd, who passed away suddenly on March 27th at the young age of 75. He had been the leader of the this industry through some very tough times and kept everything going, even if it meant dipping into his own pockets to ensure racing was at the best level possible for owners and fans. There is no one to replace him in the capacity that he provided for the industry and he was honoured with a moment of silence prior to the running of the first race.
The wagering total on the eight-race card was $614,146, down from the $891,000 wagered on seven races last May 3.