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By: Tony Farina

Western Regional Off-Track Betting (WROTB) was a big winner on Derby Day as a record $2,039,088 was wagered through OTB outlets, including Batavia Bets.com, OTB branches and EZ Bet locations.  

While there was controversy with the finish of the Run for the Roses with a disqualification, there is no controversy with the OTB record handle sparked by the Empire branch in Rochester which recorded a 27 percent jump from last year.  Wagering was also very strong at Batavia Downs Gaming and Hotel, up 7 percent.

Batavia Downs hosted three separate parties for last Saturday’s big day, with the Park Place Party serving an all-time high 751 dinners.  The Thurman Thomas Sports Bar “34 Rush” posted their highest single day total for sales.

On the gaming floor, $4 million credits were played, second highest in history.  For the week ending Saturday, a record $18.3 million in credits were played.

“The wagering, party and gaming numbers are a continuation and reflection of the solid year Batavia Downs has been experiencing,” said Henry Wojtaszek, president and CEO of WROTB.  “We could not have pulled this off if it wasn’t for our dedicated OTB branches and Batavia Downs staff who worked tirelessly on Derby Day.  And we appreciate the solid support from our loyal customers.”

Wojtaszek and crew are hoping for another big day with the second leg of the Triple Crown on Saturday, May 18 from Pimlico racetrack.