Watch Woodbine next Monday night for 7/8 mile races

In an effort to spotlight its Standardbred product, Woodbine Entertainment Group is introducing a new distance to its racing menu. Beginning December 1, every race on Monday nights through the month of December will be raced at a seven-eighths mile distance. Stakes events on those evenings will remain at the traditional one-mile distance.

"This distance is being introduced in an effort to try and improve flow of the races during the second and third quarters," said Bruce Murray, WEG's Vice-President of Standardbred Racing. "Although Woodbine has always been a front-end favoring track, it is readily apparent to customers and horse people that since the Fall Meet opened, it is more prevalent than ever. The drivers we've spoken to are in favor of trying it."

At the 7/8ths mile distance, the start of the race will be moved up the stretch to where the finish line is, creating a shorter distance to the first turn. It is hoped that this will lead to more action throughout the race.

The change has been reflected on the Dec. 1 condition sheet and results will be analyzed during the month to determine if the trial period will be extended.  (WEG)

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