Emerald Downs in Auburn has announced a 10% purse increase for all races the final three weeks of the 2020 live horse racing season.

The track runs races on Wednesday and Thursday, with the season ending Oct. 29.

Through 30 days of live racing, handle is averaging $1.87 million, up 67% over last year.

Emerald Downs President Phil Ziegler said the purse increase is a result of better than expected handle.

“We have been pleased at the increased betting on our races plus the increased wagering by Washington residents through the advanced deposit companies,” Ziegler said.

The races reach audiences across the nation who bet from home or office on their phone or computer and at off-track sites.

The purse increase includes all races in the final condition book: Wednesday, Oct. 14, Thursday, Oct. 15, Wednesday, Oct. 21, Thursday, Oct. 22, Wednesday, Oct. 28 and Thursday, Oct. 29. For example, a $5,000 maiden claiming race is boosted 10% from $6,400 to $7,040, or an open $10,000 claiming race from $11,200 to $12,400.

The track received approval from the Washington Horse Racing Commission in May to open the 2020 season on June 24 with no fans in attendance. Due to COVID-19, the track had been shut down since April 18, its original opening date.