Does it stand a chance?

[joeydb]

You are correct in pointing out that any cheating, even the perception of it, is detrimental to the sport. You are further correct in pointing out the demographics of the racing patron. However, the sport is suffering more because of the ease of availability of other forms of less cerebral, adrenaline pumping gambling enterprises than from any cheating, real or perceived.

The most popular form of gambling today is the slot machine. The typical slots patron has no interest in trying to "figure out" the puzzle that constitutes a racing matchup. They dislike math and bookkeeping. They would be bored to tears waiting 25 minutes between post times -- especially the ones who play 2 or 3 machines at once. At least that is their own perception, that the extra effort, research, knowledge, is not worth it. If they were to experience the thrills of a good day of racing, maybe some of them would have an open mind, but probably not the majority.

Steve has pointed out on his radio show that the real hurdle is getting them to the track. We have got to get more people into this game, and we do it by showing people what a good time can be had at it. This is not a new sport; it's not a fad. Variations of some forms of racing go back to the Roman Empire at the Circus Maximus. This truly is a sport of timeless appeal for those who have experienced it.

It's all been said here before. Many of us have had ideas for advertisements, things that the NTRA or NYRA or Magna can do to bring new players in, but the most effective advertising tool has always been word of mouth.

This year, at the Kentucky Derby parties, show people what fun it can be, and some of them will become hooked.