Batavia: 74th racing season kicks off Wednesday
At 0h03, on July 20, 2021 • By BATAVIA DOWNS
Batavia Downs kicks off it’s 74th season of live racing on Wednesday (July 21) at 6 p.m. and the management, staff and horsemen couldn’t be more excited to welcome back a live crowd to watch the best harness racing available in western New York. The track is also pleased to announce a plethora of new features that are sure to make Batavia Downs one of the most bettor-friendly options for both live and simulcast patrons.
“We couldn’t be more excited to be able to welcome all our longtime fans and friends back to Batavia Downs and see them watching trackside with absolutely no restrictions,” said Henry Wojtaszek, President/CEO of Western Regional Off Track Betting and Batavia Downs Gaming. “Last year was challenging for everyone, but that is in the past and we are laser-focused on the future. And the future is certainly bright for our customers and horsemen at Batavia Downs.”
The meet runs for 59 dates and ends on Saturday (Dec. 11). In July and August racing will take place on Wednesdays at 5 p.m. (except opening night), Saturdays at 6 p.m. and Sundays at 1:15 p.m. Then in September, October and November the schedule shifts to Wednesday, Friday (except Nov. 19 & 26), Saturday with all post times at 5 p.m. December cuts back to just Wednesday and Saturday and both will go to post at 5 p.m.
There are two special matinee cards on Monday (Sept. 6) at 1:15 p.m. which is Labor Day and Saturday (Nov. 6) at 3:15 p.m. which is Breeders Cup Day.
“Batavia Downs racing staff has put forth great time and effort to prepare for the 2021 Meet,” said Scott P. Kiedrowski, Vice-President of Operations at Batavia Downs. “We have invested in new equipment to condition our track and have given our Clubhouse and Rail Bar a fresh new look. This should be another fantastic year for harness racing here at Batavia Downs”
Batavia Downs is introducing two new wagers this year; the Jackpot Pick-6 and the Jackpot Super Hi-5.
