Seven-Eighths Mile Races At WEG

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Published: November 24, 2008 12:17 pm EST

Woodbine Entertainment Group has announced that it will be introducing a new distance to its racing menu.

Effective December 1, every race on Monday nights through the month of December will be raced at the distance of seven-eighths of a mile. Stakes events on those evenings will remain at the traditional one-mile distance.

"This distance is being introduced in an effort to try and improve flow of the races during the second and third quarters," WEG vice president, Standardbred Racing, Bruce Murray was quoted as saying via release. "Although Woodbine has always been a front-end favouring track, it is readily apparent to customers and horse people that since the fall meet opened, it is more prevalent than ever. The drivers we've spoken to are in favour of trying it."

At the seven-eighths of a mile distance, the start of the race will be moved up the stretch to where the finish line is, creating a shorter distance to the first turn. It is hoped that this will lead to more action throughout the race.

The change has been reflected on the December 1 condition sheet and results will be analyzed during the month to determine if the trial period will be extended.

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