Raising average field sizes is always a challenge at any thoroughbred track unless you can pull a "Monmouth 2010" trick. (Sharply decreasing the race days will multiplying purse sizes.
At Hastings, we have the winter/early spring rains to contend with. We've had a lot of rain lately, including this morning. Wet tracks cause a lot of trainers to just walk their horses around the shedrow, which of course can upset the horse's schedule and may delay his first start or two.
Like most other places in N. America(but NOT Ontario) breeders are getting older, probably can't sell their farms for much and have bred to fewer mares. This reduces the 2 & 3 y.o. 's and a track always needs a steady or growing supply of them.
Finally, our 19% purse increase PLUS paying out $110 to all starters in each race SHOULD help. But we will run around 600+ races and trying to get to 8.0 will be challenge. As a serious player, I certainly pray that we can! Good luck to everyone in 2011 and please consider Hastings in your wagering plans.
overdog....
a.k.a
Fraser Rawlinson