Standardbred Racing at Fraser Downs Continues to Gain Momentum

Life-long horsemen have their own way of saying “spring is in the air”.

Kelly MacMillan, President of Harness Racing BC, nails it when he says: “There’s been a lot of hard work done and those patiently planted trees are starting to bear fruit.”

MacMillan is referring to the sudden buzz that’s been created at Fraser Downs Racetrack in Surrey, BC.  The March 3, 2023 Friday Night standardbred racing card recorded the largest wagering handle since 2018.  The nine-race card resulted in a total handle of $324,366.97 at the track and simulcast outlets.

Wagering is up 45 per cent since the start of the current Fraser Downs meet that began February 2 and goes Thursday and Friday evenings through May 4 and 5.

“We’re finally rolling in the right direction,” MacMillan says.  “I’m always cautious about being too optimistic but I can’t help but be thrilled with the additional interest our product is creating.  I’m super excited for what we’ll be seeing in the upcoming months.”

Leading driver Brandon Campbell increased his spring season record to 28 wins on a night that included guiding Mach Steady to a thrilling down-to-the-wire victory in the featured eighth race for owners Randy Rutledge and Jennifer Dodsworth.

Kelly Hoerdt and Scott Knight are tied for second with 18 wins in the driver standings.  Hoerdt continues to reign as leading trainer with 19 wins in 71 starts.

Nichelle Milner, Regional Manager, Racing Operations, feels a definite upbeat atmosphere throughout the backstretch at Fraser Downs.  “We all try to put forth a creditable product and it’s working,” Milner says, pointing out that going into next Thursday’s (March 9) card there will be a $12,000 Jackpot Pick 5 carryover.