Wind Shadows

Quinellas I have Known

Quinellas I have Known

by Track Historian Bob Gates On June 16, 1934 quinella betting was introduced to Winnipeg racegoers at Polo Park racetrack.  Traditionally the wager was offered on the final race of the day.  The bet called for picking the first two finishers, regardless of order....

Past, Present and Future

Past, Present and Future

by Bob Gates The past is behind, learn from it. The future is ahead, prepare for it. The present is here, live it.  -– Thomas S. Monson It’s been three and a half months since starter Derek Corbel sent the first field of horses on there way to kick-off the Downs 2023...

The Great Cull of ’62

The Great Cull of ’62

by Bob Gates "Cull - to remove an inferior animal from a herd." The definition sounds sad, doesn't it? However, following Assiniboia Downs' 1962 race meet that is exactly what took place at the 6 ½-furlong oval on the edge of Winnipeg’s Perimeter Highway. The goal of...