THOROUGHBREDS KICK INTO GEAR WITH APRIL 27 START AT HASTINGS RACECOURSE
by Greg Douglas
The excitement continues to build as the opening of the 2024 thoroughbred racing season approaches at Hastings Racecourse on Saturday, April 27 with a new 2:30 pm PDT start time.
The 45 dates on this year’s live racing calendar provide a “new look” in several areas, including the introduction of 15 Friday Night cards beginning at 7:00 pm PDT to accommodate racing fans throughout North America and worldwide.
“Not only does Friday Night racing attract a younger demographic on site, it also fills a void for our simulcast audiences in markets with different time zones,” says Dawn Lupul, Manager of Racing & Communications. “It’s been said that improving betting handles is the lifeblood of our industry and with that in mind, we are continuing the 15% takeouts on most pools and introducing a $2 minimum on daily double wagering.”
The Friday Night Live theme kicks into gear on May 10 and runs through September 6 with the overall schedule including 21 Saturday afternoons, six Sunday matinees, two holiday Monday afternoons (Canada Day July 1 and BC Day August 5) and a Monday 7 pm start during the PNE Fair August 26.
The Cup takes over the Hastings site on Saturday, July 20 continuing the tradition of enjoying a full race card along with showcasing displays of fashion, a 1970s style speakeasy lounge, trackside patios, food outlets and entertainment featuring DJ Brandi Cyrus and Juno-nominated electronic duo Youngbombs.
The Saturday, April 27 afternoon launch of the 2024 racing season at Hastings is billed as Mystery Wallet Day at the Track with fans having a chance to win up to a $100 betting voucher. The free wallets, one per person, will be handed out at the BC Racebook tent on the tarmac area.
Also, in recognition of the Vancouver Canucks winning their first NHL Pacific Division title in more than a decade and securing a 2024 Stanley Cup playoff berth, fans will have a chance to win Canucks’ memorabilia throughout the afternoon.
