Quote:
Originally Posted by eurobounce
Eric I agree with you. Tracks cannot survive by just offering racing anymore. There needs to be other sources of revenue. Hopefully that revenue finds it was into purses. Who cares if a non-racing fan goes to the "racino" and takes in a show, or eats dinner or watches a movie. The point is that revenue is being generated to increase purses and that helps fields, horseman and basically the industry. If 1 of a thousand people turn into a horse player then it was a success. If not, horsemen will gladly accept the money the patrons spent on dinner or other forms of entertainment.
The business needs to evolve and not digress. It needs to transform likes other forms of entertainment has. I think it has a long long way to go but with people like Frank we can get there. Not saying his way is right, but at least he is trying.
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What worries me is that if this sport and this business does not capture attendance, on-track handle, new fans, etc. -- eventually legislation may get to the point where racetrack operators will only need to have very short meets or no meet at all in order to keep their "racinos" open. That evolution worries me. I remember the Meadowlands years ago doing concerts with popular local NJ (and tri-state bands). Was it a huge success? No, but they did get "flow over" and people came in watched races, had dinner, etc. Yes, they aren't doing great but that may be reflective of the industry, not of the Meadowlands or NJ.
Revenue from the Keenelands sales company is feeding the track and the racing side of the game. Is it subsidizing? Yes, it sure is. However, subsidies are a part of many major industries and governments. That's a discussion for another time though, LOL.
Let's hope that progress, not regress, occurs.
Eric |
