now that santa anita has gone back to dirt

[The Indomitable DrugS]

Originally Posted by NTamm1215

At the very least, the increased purses at the beginning of the meet have attracted Steve Asmussen to go out there for the first time and for trainers that left like Eric Guillot to return.

They have Asmussen back for one meet because of dirt (he will be gone come HP) and they get Guillot to return ... wow.

Originally Posted by NTamm1215

I'm interested to know why you think decreasing takeout will lead to some great revival of racing.

It's a long, long term process - but with the takeout rates where they are at - betting horses will always be viewed as sucker bait. The slide will continue.

Originally Posted by NTamm1215

Exchange wagering has a significantly better chance to help turn things around.

I'd believe in Santa Clause, the Tooth Fairy, and the Easter Bunny before I believe the powers that be have enough of a clue to not screw up exchange wagering.

[NTamm1215]

Originally Posted by The Indomitable DrugS

They have Asmussen back for one meet because of dirt (he will be gone come HP) and they get Guillot to return ... wow.

It's a long, long term process - but with the takeout rates where they are at - betting horses will always be viewed as sucker bait. The slide will continue.

I'd believe in Santa Clause, the Tooth Fairy, and the Easter Bunny before I believe the powers that be have enough of a clue to not screw up exchange wagering.

Why should SA give a crap about Hollywood? We're talking about Santa Anita right now. Asmussen could to to Thailand after the meet for all SA cares.

Whether the takeout is 20%, 22%, or 30% the bettors are going to be looked at as suckers. What other group of people are willing to bet into something that's filtered so heavily? The takeout going up 2% is not going to change the way Frank Stronach, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jeff Mullins or Joel Rosario view the bettors.

I agree with you about exchange wagering. When push comes to shove they'll f.uck it up I'm sure.