by Nick Salvi, for Meadowlands Racetrack

East Rutherford, NJ — Compared to last season’s data, all-sources wagering on Meadowlands races is up 33 percent in 2013.

Last Friday’s total was up 60 percent over the like date in 2012. Live handle in the building is rising and Winners at Bayonne OTW had its best day ever on Saturday.

The mutuel pools, particularly on the exotics, have been strong throughout the meet. The early Pick-4 on Friday was not hit and the carryover rolled into the late Pick-4, resulting in a pool of more than $140,000. Saturday’s late Pick-4 was nearly $120,000 on its own.

Racing Operations Manager Darin Zoccali spoke to the increased handle.

“While I anticipated a positive response to our racing product, this has been overwhelming,” said Zoccali. “All three of our guaranteed multi-race exotic wagers are performing at extremely high levels. Bettors like to bet into big pools and the money wagered continues to grow.

“The racing itself has been just fantastic. (Racing Secretary) Peter Koch has done a tremendous job of classifying the horses. Many of the races are difficult, but this game is supposed to be challenging. That’s what makes it great.

“In addition, we have made some adjustments at Winners Bayonne and have seen a dramatic spike in our business there as a result.

“We are very appreciative of our customers’ support and the excitement building around the Meadowlands is really great to be a part of.”

The racing product itself continues to be stellar. Saturday’s card featured the return of this year’s top performer Golden Receiver and the finals for three winter series as highlights, but the overnight racing has clearly been the star thus far in 2013.

General Manager and CEO Jason Settlemoir addressed the new attitude in the building.

“Customers are seeing a dedicated effort to customer service,” said Settlemoir, “which in my eyes is paramount to the success of any business. We respond to all customer e-mails (media@newmracing.com) and comment cards, which are read each week at the staff meeting. I personally respond to most and then instruct staff to follow up once the comment has been addressed.

“We have something special going on thus far, but the reality is that other tracks are getting ready to open and tap in to an already fragile horse supply. Considering that our sole source of income is based upon handle, field size and parity in the races are key. We are grateful to the horsemen who have supported us thus far and hope they will continue to support our efforts at the entry box.”

Live racing resumes Thursday at 7:15 p.m. Visit the Meadowlands website for more details.