WHO AM I?

I am the engine that makes racing go.

I am routinely referred to by executives in industry racing organizations as a consumer or fan or as part of a business model.

I am largely disrespected, and I am tolerated only because, without me, racing would be a cottage industry.

I am at Aqueduct in the dark day’s of winter and at Ellis Park in the dog day’s of summer, and I hang out at nights at Charles Town, Northfield, and Evangeline.

I am the individual who is ultimately responsible for the existence of exquisite racehorse breeding farms and profitable auction companies, and without me Lexington and Ocala would be former horse capitals.

I provide the economic basis for the many people and companies who make their living servicing the racing industry, from trainers to veterinarians to feed suppliers.

I am asked to pay a takeout rate on wagers that is hefty and I often must experience poor physical conditions and indifferent or rude employees at racetracks.

I should be the center of attention in racing, but I am not, and in recent years I’ve even been playing second fiddle to slot machines.

I am the bettor, and if horse racing is to be revitalized it will be because I choose to put more of my money through the windows at my local racetrack or via the ADW company of my choice.

I know I overuse the word I, and that may come across as self-centered, but please don’t take it that way…I am just an exasperated “lowly” bettor and want racetracks and racing leaders to know how I feel and why there are fewer and fewer of us.

Copyright © 2013 Horse Racing Business

Comments

  1. Neglected Punter says

    You’ve outdone yourself with this one. Never seen it put better. As long as slots are around to boost purses the punter will be slighted.