Keeneland closed its spring 2023 meeting on April 28 after 15 days of special racing that produced an all-sources handling record of $224 million.
Keeneland President and CEO Shannon Arvin said: “A big thank you to our fans, community and riders, who came out in full force this spring to make it happen. support the Keeneland race. “From work in the morning to watching races along the tracks or plying on The Hill in the afternoon—there are many ways to celebrate Keeneland. It’s rewarding to see memories made and traditions shared. shared all over the field and around this great sport.”
All bets (excluding full-card emulation at Keeneland) for the April 7 to 28 spring meeting totaled $224,348,745, beating the previous record of 219,284 $.979 was set during last year’s 15-day spring encounter.
The 2023 meeting marks the fifth consecutive season of record bets at Keeneland. Bets were boosted by an all-time record Pick 6 handle of $4,788,759 on April 21.
The well-timed bet for the spring encounter also didn’t go well, dropping 2.1% to $15,844,092.
Outstanding Race
The daily average at Keeneland this spring is a record $1,185,532, resulting in full schools averaging nine starters per race.
Keeneland awarded a record $8.05 million during the season for 19 stakes held this spring. The schedule features $1 million Blue Grass Stakes (G1) and $600,000 Ashland Stakes (G1), both prime targets for the nation’s top 3-year-olds.
Among the memorable moments this spring:
• Tapit Trice prevailed by the neck in the thrilling Blue Grass match and became the leading contender for the Kentucky Derby (G1).
• Determine the goal offensive in Ashland to push her into the Kentucky Oaks (G1) field.
• Good night olives Women’s sprint champion 2022, returned in full form with a one-time victory at Madison Stakes (G1).
Keeneland vice president of racing Gatewood Bell said: “Thank you so much to our riders and women, who have continuously enhanced the quality of racing at Keeneland. “Keeneland in the spring is very competitive. The best owners, trainers and jockeys gather here; many of them don’t have a chance to race against each other at any other time. That’s all. making for an exciting racing season for them and for the betting public.”
Spring Meets Leaders
Fueled by two winning days, jockey Tyler Gaffalione notched 21 wins to claim his second straight spring meeting equestrian title and fifth overall. Gaffalione won four races on April 21 and three on April 12.
Wesley Ward recorded 12 wins to claim his sixth straight spring meet-up coaching title and ninth total.
Sheikh Mohammed’s Godolphin celebrated the title of third top owner in Keeneland with six wins including two on the stakes. Barbara Banke’s Stonestreet Stables won five races, including three bets.
This press release has been edited by BloodHorse Staff for content and style.
