Hastings Racecourse concluded its successful 2025 racing season, highlighted by dominant repeat performances from its top horsemen, consistent wagering support, and the successful return of a popular bet over the meet.
Jockey Amadeo Perez cemented his status as a dominant figure at the track, claiming his fourth consecutive leading jockey title with 49 wins for the year, fending off a tough challenge from runner-up Kimal Santo, who finished with 42 wins. Trainer Barbara Heads was equally impressive, securing her third consecutive leading trainer title and an impressive $417,000 in winnings this year.
Total wagering for the 2025 season reached $17.3 million. Despite facing some challenges with field sizes, the track saw strong support. The final card of the season saw wagering of $827,322, a 217% increase over last year with three additional races.
A major point of interest was the relaunch of the 15% takeout $1 Jackpot Pick 5, generating excitement throughout the summer, and ultimately delivering a huge $150,132 payday to a single lucky player on August 9.
Hastings Racecourse once again proved its ability to attract large, enthusiastic crowds, packing the house for its signature events, including The Cup, BC Cup, and BC Derby. The BC Derby card demonstrated exceptional support, generating over $1.1 million in handle for the day.
The 2025 calendar also included Hastings’ role in the Western Canadian Derby Series, the three-leg test for top three-year-olds culminating with the BC Derby, offering a compelling $100,000 Derby Bonus to any horse that sweeps all three legs. While there wasn’t a winner of all three legs this year, the series saw heavy competition for the prize and continues to gain momentum in its third year.
Dawn Lupul, Racing and Communications Manager at BC Racebook, commended the entire community for a solid season: “It was great to see some impressive consecutive title wins from Amadeo and Barbara,” Lupul noted. “The crowds were electric on our big days this year and it really shows the incredible local support for horse racing in Vancouver. We want to share our sincere appreciation for all the horseplayers, the horse people who bring on the competitive show and the Hastings team that put it altogether. We are looking forward to seeing everyone again next year!”
For more information, visit BCRacebook.com or hastingsracecourse.com.
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