Horse racing in Atlantic City proper? It can be the case this October, when the American version of Palio racing is planned to be run.
Unlike the version in Italy where they race around the piazza, plans are to run their races on the beach. Legislation has been proposed to allow an operator of a race meet at a racetrack to run these races with wagering provided they give up a corresponding number of days at the racetrack they have days scheduled. Being ACRC has already completed their race meet, it looks like the NJTHA will step in and run this special meet (with wagering) and give up two of the dates they have at the Meadowlands.
I realize at times I have a myopic view of things; not wanting to do squat to help the Atlantic City casino interests, but why anyone would want to lift one finger to help a struggling industry that has been trying to destroy you puzzles me. However, if there is a buck to be made, I guess principle goes out the window.
I would love someone to explain the logic of this to me.
6 comments:
Pacingguy:
This strikes me as a unique way to get some attention for racing, but with betting? I don't get that. I've handicapped front runners, grinders, come from behinders and mudders. Wouldn't have the slightest idea what to do with beach sand.
The attraction of the Italian races are the tight turns, potential for dumping the rider (the horse can still win w/o the rider apparently) and the bunched field. My understanding of the AC version would be a straightaway on the beach. Out west, they call that quarterhorse racing. Qh racing is suffering like the rest. Other than a one or two shot publicity stunt, I don't see how this helps anyone at all.
I understand the racing angle What I don't understand is why racing would do anything to help Atlantic City when they are trying to bury racing.
Does this help AC? Do the casinos get a cut of the handle or admissions? I didn't see that in the articles. Seems like this would help t-bred racing in NJ by creating interest in something different. AC just happens to be a large city with a boardwalk for spectators.
It helps AC in the fact it provides them an event to get people to come and see, part of their goal of becoming a destination resort. Granted one event is not going to do it, but it is a start in their goal to get people to come to AC and then head to the casinos after the races are completed
Pacingguy:
You're reading too much into this proposal. Most of the Jersey Shore has long been a destination resort area and a race or two on the beach won't change the current woes of Atlantic City's casinos. Would you feel better if the races were in Wildwood or Cape May? As a long time race fan, the betting idea has zero interest. As a way to get some attention for racing, why not try it?
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