Quote:
Originally Posted by parsixfarms
Is it the name "Super Derby" that draws the handle, or the fact that LaDowns puts on a very attractive, stakes-filled card at a time in the racing season when there isn't a lot of competition, and the Super Derby is the signature race of the day?
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In 2005, the Super Derby was held on JCGC day and it handled $4.3 million. Last year, we were off the turf, so that's a bit of a rough comparison. But in 2006-2008, the average handle was ~$7 million.
So to answer your question, I think it goes in this order:
1. Lack of competition
2. The fact it's the 'Super Derby'
3. Undercard of good betting races/guaranteed P4
Calder is the poster child of carving out a niche event with their Summit of Speed. It takes $... which is always an issue, but yeah, all cards are on the table this off-season.