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Winnipeg, MB – July 31, 2025 – Assiniboia Downs is set to host its biggest event of the season, the 77th running of the Manitoba Derby on Monday, August 4, and all signs point to a blockbuster day of racing and wagering.
At the heart of the excitement is a mandatory payout of the Jackpot Pick 5, which has a carryover of $465,217—one of the largest in the track’s history. With a low $0.20 minimum bet, the pool is expected to soar to over $1.5 million, drawing attention from players across North America. The Derby card will also feature a $100,000 guaranteed Pick 4 pool, adding even more incentive for bettors to jump in.
“This is the most anticipated day on our racing calendar, and the momentum we’re seeing in 2025 has been incredible,” said Darren Dunn, CEO of Assiniboia Downs. “The Manitoba Derby, combined with a mandatory payout of one of the richest Jackpot Pick 5 carryovers we've ever had, is going to give horseplayers an unforgettable wagering experience.”
The draw has been completed for this year’s Manitoba Derby, which will feature eight horses. The early morning-line favourite is Take Charge Tom, trained by four-time Manitoba Derby winning trainer Robertino Diodoro and to be ridden by Rasheed Hughes. The $125,000 Manitoba Derby anchors a stakes-filled program that includes the $50,000 Harvey Warner Manitoba Mile and $50,000 Escape Clause Stakes.
The Manitoba Derby is the first leg of the Western Canada Derby Series, with the second leg being contested in the Canadian Derby held at Century Mile on August 23 and then concluding with the BC Derby at Hastings Racecourse on September 13. If a horse wins all three events, there will be a $100,000 Derby Bonus. Owners and Trainers are further incentivized through the $25,000 Owner-Trainer Bonus program which is based on a points system throughout the series.
In addition to the high stakes racing and deep wagering pools, fans can look forward to engaging coverage. The full program will be broadcast live on FanDuel TV including the popular ASD live pre-race handicapping show with personalities Kirt and Stretch and streamed on YouTube, with Assiniboia Downs’ X account (@AssiniboiaDowns) delivering handicapping insights, race updates, and interactive contests throughout the day. Fans who follow and engage on X will have the chance to win merchandise and take part in the day’s festivities from anywhere in the world.
Horseplayers can access exclusive offers for this program on HPIbet.com, Twinspires, and 1/ST Bet - Xpressbet.
First post is scheduled for 7:30 PM Central / 8:30 PM Eastern on Monday, August 4. Live racing continues Tuesday and resumes the Tuesday-Wednesday schedule with select Mondays beginning on August 12.
For full Derby Day details and free handicapping tools, visit ASDowns.com/player-portal.
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