May 8, 2012
BATAVIA — Batavia Downs topped $1 million in video gaming net revenue for the first time in its seven-year history last week, and the track’s owner, Western Regional Off-Track betting Corp., reported record wagering for the Kentucky Derby on Saturday.
Patrons bet $1,913,108 for the derby at 50 OTB locations, which was up 16 percent from the amount wagered in 2011, which also set a record. In addition, WROTB paid out $1.6 million in winning wagers, its most ever.
“We are thrilled with the turnout for the Derby,” said Todd Haight, OTB’s handicapper and the general manager of Batavia Downs racing. “It seems that the people of Western New York did their handicapping homework too, as we paid out more winners than ever before.”
Hall of Fame running back Thurman Thomas visited with Batavia Downs customers on Saturday at the track’s Grandstands Bar and Grille. The track will soon receive $27 million in renovations and upgrades, including a new Thurman Thomas Sports Bar.
The 640 gaming machines at Batavia Downs have generated more than $900,000 in net revenues in previous weeks, but last week was a record total — $1,019,980.
Western OTB looks forward to another big day on May 19 with the Preakness Stakes.
