The second of three live horse racing programs running this fall at Suffolk Downs is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 3. Twelve races including the new $75,000 Distaff Turf will be featured. Two planned steeplechase races were scratched due to insufficient interest by the entry close date Sept. 30. Betting will be available both on track and at multiple simulcast outlets around the U.S.

Purses will be awarded up to 5th place, and those horses not finishing in the top five positions receive an $800 Runner’s Reward, with all trainers receiving $200 for every starter. Post time is12:30pm.

Additional incentives are being featured during this second live program including the lowering of the pari-mutuel takeout to 15%, down from 26% on multiple bets and down from 19% for win, place and show. North American takeout rates generally average about 21%. Suffolk Down’s newly implemented 15% insures that 85% of all monies wagered will be returned to the bettors.

Massachusetts’ Race Horse Development Fund will also spotlight the state’s breeders in three restricted stakes featuring $75,000 purses each.

A food truck and craft beer festival will support the live card and provide complimentary family-oriented activities during the day’s activities.

The final race day for this year is scheduled for Oct. 31. The New England Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association negotiated a two-year lease with Suffolk Downs. Once the success of the first year’s three races are evaluated, the association has the option of scheduling up to fifty races during the lease’s second season.