A recent conversation with John Campbell sheds light on the impact of post time drag on handle in harness racing. As editor Dave Briggs admits, he underestimated the significance of this issue. Initially, Briggs believed that reducing drag could benefit tracks like The Meadowlands and improve customer experience. However, Campbell and handle experts cautioned that attempts to minimize drag often led to decreased handle.
After The Meadowlands observed a decline in handle following a drag-reduction experiment, it became evident that post time drag plays a crucial role in handle optimization. While Briggs acknowledged the various factors influencing handle, the experiment’s outcome highlighted the paramount importance of drag in attracting wagers.
Notably, industry experts like Brett Sturman and Debbie Little have also delved into the correlation between drag reduction and handle fluctuations. Campbell emphasized that maximizing handle through post time drag aligns with the dynamics of the simulcast universe, where track operators are compelled to adhere to this practice for financial viability.
Despite recognizing the negative implications of post time drag on the sport’s future, Campbell stressed the industry’s reluctance to abandon this practice. The Meadowlands, like many tracks, heavily relies on handle revenue and cannot unilaterally eliminate drag without risking financial losses.
Campbell proposed halting computer-assisted wagering (CAW) close to post time to ensure a level playing field for all bettors. The experiment at The Meadowlands indicated that a reduction in post time drag not only impacted handle but also influenced CAW participation, a significant contributor to total handle.
While there were concerns that restricting CAWs during the experiment might have diverted business to other tracks like Woodbine Mohawk Park, Campbell clarified that The Meadowlands did not impose such restrictions. The decline in handle was primarily attributed to the shorter post drag, affecting CAW engagement and overall handle.
Ultimately, Campbell emphasized that customer preferences for competitive races with larger fields should guide industry practices. Failure to address these demands risks stagnation and potential contraction within the sport. The need for a unified approach across harness and thoroughbred racing to enhance customer experience and sustain handle levels remains a pressing concern.
As the industry grapples with the delicate balance between tradition and innovation, the debate surrounding post time drag underscores the complex interplay of factors shaping the future of harness racing. Campbell’s insights and The Meadowlands’ experiment serve as valuable lessons in navigating the evolving landscape of wagering dynamics and customer expectations in the sport.
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