Joining forces once again, Assiniboia Downs, Century Mile, and Hastings Racecourse are set to deliver another powerhouse racing program with their combined Derby series during the 2024 racing season.
The second year of the newly-named Western Canadian Derby Series comprises the prestigious $125,000 Manitoba Derby, scheduled for August 5 at Assiniboia Downs in Winnipeg, Manitoba; the renowned $200,000 G3 Canadian Derby at Century Mile in Edmonton, Alberta on August 24; and the highly anticipated $125,000 G3 BC Derby at Hastings Racecourse in Vancouver, British Columbia on September 14.
The series will offer a $100,000 bonus for the horse that is able to win all three races. While this would be a remarkable feat, it is quite possible with the timing of the scheduled events, making it a great opportunity for those who have a talented three-year-old.
In addition, this year there will be a points system introduced to the program that will provide $25,000 in bonuses to the owners and trainers that have competed in at least two of the three events. Points will be awarded based on their race finish in each of the legs and will also have points awarded for owners and trainers that run in all three races. Details will be published shortly.
Darren Dunn, CEO of Assiniboia Downs commented, “ASD is so pleased to continue to work with our western partner racetracks on this exciting and rewarding Derby series. This year’s rendition has been bolstered by additional reward money targeted at participation and excellence in results and should only lead to larger fields, increased wagering and an elevated experience for all of our customers.”
“Whenever you can get multiple racing jurisdictions working together to promote horse racing, you can’t lose”, exclaimed Allen Goodsell, Racing Manager at Century Casinos. “We are excited for the new changes to the Western Canadian Derby Series that put more money into racing participants’ pockets.”
“We are really excited about the prospect of hosting the winner of all three legs,” exclaimed Dawn Lupul, Manager of Racing and Communications for BC. “The introduction of the additional $25,000 in bonuses for owners and trainers will provide even more of an incentive to participate in the entire series, adding to the success of our inaugural season last year. We’ll be getting the cheques ready!”
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