In California, horseracing track operator Stronach Group has reported year-on-year increases in attendance and handle for the beginning of the winter-spring session at its Santa Anita Park.

According to a report from the Daily Racing Form newspaper, the suburban Los Angeles thoroughbred facility saw on-track attendance of 46,514 for Monday’s opening day of its winter-spring session, which represented a gain of 3.5% year-on-year, while handle rose by a similar amount to top $3.63 million.

In addition, the Arcadia-based track also reported all-sources handle, which includes its horseracing simulcast and account wagering services, had swelled by 5.5% year-on-year to reach in excess of $18.36 million.

The newspaper reported that track officials are hoping this success will continue when racing resumes later today with a five-day meet that is to run through to Monday. Thursday’s eight-race program will include two carryovers in the $2 pick-six with a $115,062 in the main pool and a $24,656 in the single-ticket jackpot pool, which is paid only when there is a single winning ticket.

The Daily Racing Form moreover reported that there are to be four graded stakes over the coming weekend at Santa Anita Park including the $300,000 American Oaks for three-year-old fillies on Saturday while Sunday’s program is to be led by the $200,000 San Pasqual Stakes, which is expected to include the winner of last month’s Breeders’ Cup Classic event.