Hastings Racecourse hopes for boost with BC Cup Day
Posted August 1, 2011 10:22 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – It’s an industry trying desperately to get back the glitz and glamour it once had. Hastings Racecourse is hoping today’s BC Cup brings in a large crowd and big bucks.
They’ve had a tough season so far, mostly due to the weather, according to the track’s GM Raj Mutti. But other challenges like a tough economy and weak agriculture industry have also taken their toll.
Mutti says they don’t always see big crowds, the way they used to, and hopes today is a turning point. “The racing business is kind of challenging everywhere, but we’re doing the best we can by increasing attendance and attracting a newer, younger fan base as well.”
He explains they’re marketing towards a younger crowd by livening up the atmosphere and by bringing in more entertainment on a consistent basis.
“[Today] is a big opportunity for us to showcase live racing and the entertainment and excitement to the average person that doesn’t come out too often and for the regulars as well,” he adds.
He says today’s 10-racecard is the best he’s ever seen. All the horses involved are born and bred in BC.
The first race is at 12:20 p.m., there is over $400,000 in purse money. Admission is free.
