Gulfstream Park announced Wednesday a purse increase of 10 percent, beginning
Saturday.
In addition, Gulfstream announced starters on Florida Derby day (excluding
stakes races) will each receive an additional $1,000. The Florida Derby (G1) is
scheduled for April 3.
“Considering we started the meet with a 15 percent increase, we’ve now
increased purses more than 25 percent over last year,” said Tim Ritvo, Vice
President of Racing.
Gulfstream’s on-track handle on its live product is up 15 percent from last
year while total handle on-track is up 5 percent. Meanwhile, Gulfstream’s
Fountain of Youth day last Saturday was a huge success, with total handle of
$17.5 million, up $2 million from the previous year.
“Our increases are due to a number of factors,” Ritvo said. “From our quality
racing to our Hall of Fame trainers and jockey, to the crowds we’re getting for
our ‘Breakfast At Gulfstream’ and backstretch tours every Saturday morning to
the great customer service. We also hope our new wagering platforms, including
the Rainbow 6 and 50-cent Pick 5, meet our customers’ satisfaction.”