One might assume that a few folks would skip cashing in on a two-buck bet on a clear horse racing favorite. But the number that decided their meager earnings weren't worth a visit back to the window after betting on Triple Crown winner American Pharoah in the Belmont Stakes is astounding.
Nearly all of those who wagered $2 on the winner skipped out. Race spokesman John Durso Jr. told ESPN.com that there were 94,218 such bets made at Belmont Park and Aqueduct Racetrack, both of which are controlled by the New York Racing Commission. And only 3,981 of them cashed out. The result is that $315,829 has been left behind.
About 500 winning betting slips have been posted on eBay and have been selling for $20-30.
But those who still wish to cash in their slips can do so until March 31, 2016. After that, the money is pooled and goes back to New York State.
