If you want fans to return to the sport of harness racing, dangling a five- or perhaps six-figure, must-win wagering jackpot in front of them should be a good way to start.
The U.S. Trotting Association, in concert with the 20 racetracks participating in the USTA’s “Back to the Track” promotion, has announced that a $50,000 guaranteed Pick-4 wager based on races at four different harness tracks will be part of the national event.
“A national wager for a national day of racing just makes sense,” said Mike Tanner, USTA executive vice president. “And the guarantee ensures that the pool will be one deep enough for big and small bettors alike to dive into. Picking four consecutive winners in races from four different tracks in less than an hour isn’t easy, but that’s what makes it worth playing. It’s a good bet.”
The Pick-4 will be a $1 minimum bet and feature races from Meadowlands Racetrack, Yonkers Raceway, Balmoral Park and Northfield Park. The bet will be offered on Saturday, Aug. 14, and awaits expected regulatory approval. “Back to the Track” is a promotion that seeks to bring fans out for an afternoon or evening at the harness races as a means of recapturing the excitement they remember from earlier visits, and to offer special incentives to those who do. Many of the participating tracks have already announced a variety of promotional draws, including such things as free admission, free past performance programs, handicapping seminars and contests, behind the scenes tours and food and beverage specials. Complete details -- with more being added all the time -- may be found online at “Back to the Track’s” website, http://backtothetrack.ustrotting.com. The site identifies the participating racetracks and offers pertinent links. (USTA)
|




