BOSTON (AP) _ The Massachusetts Lottery is on track to set a record, with sales closing in on $5 billion for the 2015 fiscal year that ends Tuesday.

Officials said the final sales figure for the year will likely be just shy of that figure.

As of Saturday, the lottery had tallied $4.97 billion in sales, topping the $4.86 billion it took in during the 2014 fiscal year.

Profits, which are sent to cities and towns in the form of local aid, are estimated at $935 million.

The record sales numbers come as the state marks the opening of its first gambling venue under the 2011 law legalizing casino gambling.

On Wednesday the Plainridge Park Casino in Plainville opened its doors.

Officials have warned that casinos could chip away at lottery sales.

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