GRANTS PASS, Ore. — Even with on and off rain, the first commercial race was a successful event, according to the race sponsors. The track was decked out with the brand new digital scoreboard.
The opening day brought in 1,750 people and $59,686 worth of bets were placed. That's almost $2,000 more than the opening race weekend this summer ($57,982).
The rain would have normally caused track conditions to get sloppy with wet weather, but the addition of 800 tons of sand kept the track in good shape throughout the race. It was one of two safety features added with the start of commercial races. A new "state-of-the-art" safety rail was added to the inner portion of the track.
Races will continue every Sunday and Monday at 1 pm until November 4th at Grants Pass Downs.