HALLANDALE BEACH, FL –A record $1.887 billion was wagered via Gulfstream Park in 2017, an increase of $113 million over the previous record set in 2016.

Live wagering was a record $1.632 billion, up $124 million over last year’s record despite three fewer days of racing, while wagering within the state was up $4.524 million over 2016.

The inaugural running of the Pegasus World Cup Invitational (G1), featuring Arrogate and California Chrome, set an all-time Gulfstream handle record of $40.217 million while Florida Derby Weekend April 1-2, highlighted by eventual Kentucky Derby (G1) winner Always Dreaming’s victory in the Grade I Triple Crown prep, produced an all-time best $48.792 million two-program handle.

“We want to thank the fans and horsemen from across the world for supporting our racing program,” said Gulfstream Park General Manager Bill Badgett. “We continue to see growth not only in our Championship Meet but in our summer meet. We see the spring, summer and fall racing schedule being revitalized due to the commitment to Florida racing by The Stronach Group. Horsemen and fans now look forward to our year-round program because of its quality and full fields. We also see The Stronach Group’s creativity changing the racing culture with the Pegasus World Cup and bringing events like the Clasico Internacional del Caribe to North America.

“We will continue to grow in 2018. We’re looking forward to bringing many of the best horses in the world to Gulfstream later this month for the $16 million Pegasus World Cup Invitational. We’ll also once again feature many of the best 3-year-olds in the world leading up to the Florida Derby, which has produced three of last five Kentucky Derby winners. We’re looking forward to building our partnerships with horsemen and provide world-class customer service and amenities to our great fans.”