Quote:
Originally Posted by GBBob
Everything Otis says is spot on. CDI creates such an aura of contention between Horseman and the Track that it's almost like they don't want them there. And people show up..if the weather is good. They had three straight days of 25,000+ opening weekend despite $16 admission for Derby Day and Mother's Day. Unfortunately Levy Concessions benefits more than Horseman as the Handles just don't reflect those attendance figures because the well dressed ( Derby Day) and the Well Heeled ( Mother's Day) would much rather spend $80 on 4 rounds of beer and bet $2WPS on the favorite than try and put together a Pick 4, etc.
And let's not even bring the hypocrisy of the State of Illinois regarding gambling into this conversation. Attempt after attempt to legalize Slots at tracks gets stuck in legislature or is vetoed the one time it actually did pass, yet I can pass three separate bars/lounges with slot machines on my way to the track. While they are most likely a band aid and not a long term solution, and while I have complete faith that CDI would find a way to pocket more money in proportion to increasing purses, a level playing field is far from the norm here.
That being said, it is an incredible facility...at least before you get to the back stretch...and with 70s and sunny weather forecast the beer trucks will be lined up to deliver the beer, the place will be hopping and the shrill cheers of someone celebrating winning $3.20 on a 1-2 Rivelli 9 year old will fill the grounds all weekend long.
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that's such a shame. the times we went up there, we had a ball. would love to go back, but not if the racing is not good.