Lower base wagers, new handicapping resources at Vernon

by James Witherite, Vernon Downs racing media

Punters will have an easier time aiming for a big score in trifecta, Pick 3, and Pick 4 wagers this season at Vernon Downs, as the base wager in all three pools has been reduced to 50¢.

“Although our export handle has increased 63% over the past three years, we still look for avenues to increase revenue,” commented Vernon director of racing Scott Warren.  “We have received a lot of feedback from our regular fans that attend the races live asking for the 50 cent Trifecta back. After discussion in the offseason, we took it a step further by changing the Pick 3 & Pick 4 wagers as well to hopefully grow the pools in these exotic wagers and give fans more bang for their buck.”

In addition to the lower base wagers, handicappers will have a wealth of information at their fingertips at http://www.vernondowns.com/racing/handicapping.php, with content-driven race analysis and trip notes made available for every race through the 90-program meet.  For new fans, the How to Bet section of the Vernon Downs website explains how to read and interpret the program, along with some basic wagering strategies.  Follow http://www.vernondowns.com/racing/racing-college.php for more.

Opening night (Friday, April 11) post time is 6:45 p.m., and fans will receive a Race Date T-Shirt and Schedule Magnet (while supplies last).  Longtime racecaller Jim Moran, who will enter retirement after calling the first race of the season, will also be honored throughout the evening.  After the races, a spectacular fireworks display will grace the skies above Central New York’s rolling hills.

Then Saturday, Vernon Downs wants to help its fans pay off their taxes. With the April 15 Tax Deadline right around the corner, fans will have a chance to enter a contest to win up to $500 towards their tax bill.