Everytime this discussion, or arguement takes place -- every single time -- I think it's crystal clear as to who understands the actual and substanative issues; and who is more oriented toward "the noise" -- the propaganda, and whatever else you want to call it. Anyone who comes from a place of getting rid of NYRA because they have failed, and bringing in someone who can build a successful business model, clearly doesn't understand anything about the economic and political environment of not only NY racing, but the entire industry. Now, there is nothing wrong with that, and in saying that I mean no offense to anyone and it's not meant to be riduculing in any way. However, it does point out that it is extremely difficult to have an intelligent, meaningful conversation when people are on two completely different planes of knowledge.
NYRA declaring bankruptcy is not a measure of their financial prowess or lack thereof. It's not cause and effect. It was, in part, very simply a strategic move and I think some people are upset not that NYRA did it, but more so that it actually worked. Think about that. The bankruptcy is however very and extermely indicative of the current political and legislative landscape that any franchise operator would have to operate under. It was not NYRA's business model that was broken. Yes, the propaganda will talk about expense accounts, NY Bred races, the taxpayers -- and while I don't mean to trivialize any issues, those are not the real issues. The critics and the people who are absent of facts and understanding must make it those items the issues. NYRA's business model -- any business model, in the current environment, would fail.
How many of these bidders were considering the franchise before the VLT legislation was passed? How many bidders were throwing their hat in the ring before the state legislature agreed to change the laws that make it impossible for anyone to operate the tracks in a prudent, dilligent and "profitable" form and fashion? For the first time, the state (or at least part of it, LOL) is actually looking to work with the various components of the industry and be part of the solution.
This is not about NYRA, although some people tend to make so. This entire situation is not a NYRA issue -- it's an industry issue. It's about archaic laws that were once feasible. However, the world has changed, and NY Racing -- not just NYRA -- has been dying a slow death. Like an old car that gets real old real fast, the death has been accelerated. NYRA has made mistakes, like CD, Magna, Woodbine, Delaware North, Empire, Excelsior, Capital Play, and so on. Everyone on the rosters have made mistakes -- just like all of us.
I think people need to set aside the sour grapes, animosity, hostility, and everything else -- and truly understand the issues and look to what is best for the sport and the industry.
Eric
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