The 99 day meet at Buffalo Raceway on The Fairgrounds in Hamburg, that got started in January came to a close on Sunday (July 21). Pro Kid trained by Alex Giuliani took the season finale with driver Shawn McDonough in the sulky.
Handle on 2013 Buffalo Raceway season increased 21% over 2012. The 3rd straight year of double digit increases. On track handle dipped slightly. “We were very pleased that the harness racing players have taken notice of Buffalo Raceway. The improvements we have made over the years including the new video system and our relationships with ours simulcast sites have been very beneficial”, said Director of Operations Jon Cramer. “The On track patrons enjoyed the Grandstand renovations and we know that a few of our promotions worked well and will be back for 2014.”
The horsemen enjoyed racing at the Hamburg Oval. Along with the backstretch renovations that included 6 new barns over the past 2 years. Purses distributed increased 5% and averaged over $80,000 per night.
Ray Fisher Jr who is recovering from the July 12 spill took the drivers crown with 149 victories and over $750,000 in earnings. John Cummings Jr finished just 4 wins behind with 145 trips to the Winner’s Circle and amassed $850,000.
JD Perrin took the Buffalo Raceway trainer's championship, beating out veteran conditioner Gerry Sarama by eight victories, 78-70. Perrin finished with an outstanding UDRS of .416 for the year.
Six track records were equaled or lowered including the all age Trotting mark of 1:56.3 by Crazy About Pat.
Racing is scheduled to resume at Buffalo Raceway in January 2014 pending New York Gaming Commission Approval.
Simulcast wagering is available year round Wednesday through Sunday and select Mondays for a complete schedule click here