Racing returns in late May

Despite having an unfortunately wet and rainy summer, on-track attendance has been consistent with levels from previous years, the track said in a news release.

Food and beverage sales and program sales remained consistent with previous years, and on-track wagering in the fall increased.

“From an attendance perspective, we consider 2017 to have been a successful year. However, we did face challenges this season, which was largely the result of a restrictive shipping policy that was introduced by Woodbine Racetrack at the start of our season,” said Valiquette. “This policy had a significant impact on our field sizes, and therefore also on our wagering. The negative impact was most evident on our three biggest days of the year, opening day, Father’s Day and Prince of Wales day.

“Despite these challenges, our horsepeople, staff and fans helped to make 2017 another successful year, and we look towards our 2018 season with great anticipation.”

Racing is scheduled to return on Tuesday, May 29, 2018, with twilight racing beginning at 4:20 p.m. The Fort Erie Live Racing Consortium has once again applied for 40 race dates next year, which will run Tuesdays and Sundays through to October 16.

Fort Erie Race Track remains open seven days a week for simulcast wagering, and features free monthly handicapping challenges in the offseason, beginning Nov. 25.