Ellis Park Racing & Gaming concluded its 2026 summer season Sunday with another record-setting performance as all-sources handle reached more than $80.6 million, a 4.7% increase from last year's previous record of $77 million.
"We are incredibly thankful for the support Ellis Park received from our fans, racing participants and the Tri-State community throughout the summer," said Steve Roof, general manager of Ellis Park Racing & Gaming and Owensboro Racing & Gaming. "Their continued enthusiasm plays an important role in our success and strengthens Ellis Park's standing as a premier summer racing destination."
Along with the record handle, Ellis Park awarded more than $19.1 million in purses during the 25-day season while averaging 8.34 starters per race. (Purse money includes contributions from the Kentucky Thoroughbred Development Fund)
The race for leading jockey came down to the final day with Francisco Arrieta securing the title with 21 victories and more than $1.4 million in purse earnings. Axel Concepcion finished second with 20 wins, followed by Ben Curtis with 17, Jaime Torres with 16 and Florent Geroux with 15.
"It was a really good meet and I'm very thankful for all of the support I received this summer," Arrieta said. "I have to thank all of the owners and trainers who gave me opportunities and everyone on the backside who supported me."
Trainer Brendan Walsh earned his second Ellis Park training title after sharing the 2024 crown with Steve Asmussen. Walsh's barn recorded 17 victories and nearly $1.4 million in purse earnings. Bob Baffert finished second with eight wins, followed by Rusty Arnold II, Asmussen, Brad Cox and Joe Sharp, who each had seven.
Asmussen captured the leading owner title with five victories from 49 starters. Godolphin and Jacobson Racing tied for second with four wins apiece.
Live racing will resume at Ellis Park in July, 2027.
For the latest information on racing and gaming from Ellis Park, visit www.ellisparkowensborogaming.com.
This press release has not been edited by BloodHorse. If there are any questions please contact the organization that produced the release.
