The upcoming season at Finger Lakes Gaming & Racetrack promises a thrilling experience for horse racing enthusiasts. As the track prepares for its opening day, scheduled for Monday afternoon, fans eagerly anticipate an action-packed schedule filled with prestigious races and exciting wagering opportunities. The highlight of the opening day is the $26,500 Opening Day Dash, featuring nine runners sprinting over 4 ½ furlongs. Over the course of the season, which spans 91 days from Monday through November 26, notable events include the New York Derby Day, Stars of the Future showcase, and the richest race of the season, the New York Breeders’ Futurity.

In addition to the thrilling races, changes to the wagering menu enhance the excitement. A new Pick 5 starting from the first race introduces mandatory daily payoffs, while another Pick 5 on the final five races features carryover provisions if no winning tickets are sold. These updates aim to boost participation and engagement among bettors. Furthermore, the introduction of lucrative claiming series races like the North Warning, Unhinged Iron, Mt. Rushmore, and Wise Awake add further allure to the season's lineup.

Prestigious Racing Events Set to Thrill Fans

Finger Lakes Gaming & Racetrack has meticulously planned its 2025 calendar to offer a variety of high-stakes races that cater to diverse audiences. Key dates include July 14’s New York Derby Day, where the $150,000 New York Derby takes center stage alongside other notable stakes races. Another highlight is September 22, showcasing four sprint stakes designed specifically for New York-bred horses. Finally, October 13 brings the season's most valuable race, the $200,000 New York Breeders’ Futurity, along with two additional $50,000 stakes races.

Beyond these marquee events, the Finger Lakes Claiming Series races provide substantial purses and competitive fields. The North Warning finals will be run for $35,000, while the Unhinged Iron offers a $30,000 purse for fillies and mares. Sprint series races such as the Mt. Rushmore and Wise Awake conclude with $30,000 finals. Each series includes three claiming legs leading up to the championship races, culminating in a spectacular finale during the New York Breeders’ Futurity Day program. This structure ensures consistent excitement throughout the season, keeping fans engaged week after week.

New Wagering Options Enhance Fan Experience

To elevate the betting experience, Finger Lakes Gaming & Racetrack has introduced several innovative wagering options for the 2025 season. A second Pick 5 now begins in the first race, guaranteeing daily payouts regardless of ticket sales. Additionally, the late Pick 5 covers the final five races and retains the carryover feature when no winners emerge. These modifications encourage greater participation by offering more chances to win significant prizes. Meanwhile, the early Pick 4 moves from the first race to the third race, maintaining consistency with the late Pick 4 that spans the last four races each afternoon.

Notably, the elimination of the Pick 6 wager simplifies the betting landscape without compromising excitement. By focusing on these updated wagering options, Finger Lakes aims to attract both casual and seasoned bettors alike. Moreover, complimentary Equibase programs available online enhance accessibility for visitors planning their bets. Combined with affordable concessions and free admission to opening day festivities, the overall atmosphere fosters a welcoming environment for all attendees. Whether cheering for favorite horses or testing betting strategies, everyone can enjoy a memorable day at the track.