Went to Aqueduct for the first time yesterday...

[Rudeboyelvis]

I don't think closing Aqueduct (regardless of the historical implications) will do a thing to enhance NY racing, from a business standpoint. You would simply wind up with "Calder North" and a ton of lost interest. The only legitimate option from my perspective would be to turn NYRA completely on it's head, winterize Belmont (at a ridiculous cost that could not be substantiated), and run a Spring - Fall meet at Saratoga, ala Keeneland - Chruchill.
Not going to happen.
Love it or hate it, the Aqueduct winter meet is part of the history and the lore. If nothing else, it gives us a reason to look forward to the spring. I personally enjoy the meet, and also really do look forward to the first turf racing at Belmont, but not because I think Aqueduct needs to go by the wayside. It simply helps mark time as we go through the season.

[pointman]

Originally Posted by Rudeboyelvis

I don't think closing Aqueduct (regardless of the historical implications) will do a thing to enhance NY racing, from a business standpoint. You would simply wind up with "Calder North" and a ton of lost interest. The only legitimate option from my perspective would be to turn NYRA completely on it's head, winterize Belmont (at a ridiculous cost that could not be substantiated), and run a Spring - Fall meet at Saratoga, ala Keeneland - Chruchill.
Not going to happen.
Love it or hate it, the Aqueduct winter meet is part of the history and the lore. If nothing else, it gives us a reason to look forward to the spring. I personally enjoy the meet, and also really do look forward to the first turf racing at Belmont, but not because I think Aqueduct needs to go by the wayside. It simply helps mark time as we go through the season.

I totally agree. Selling Aqueduct does not benefit NYRA since the State of New York owns it. I don't understand the hate for Aqueduct, it hosts the off season in New York and it is what it is visually, but it is not that bad. The casino will upgrade which is good, but frankly, I have no problem spending a day at the Big A.

[ateamstupid]

Originally Posted by pointman

I totally agree. Selling Aqueduct does not benefit NYRA since the State of New York owns it. I don't understand the hate for Aqueduct, it hosts the off season in New York and it is what it is visually, but it is not that bad. The casino will upgrade which is good, but frankly, I have no problem spending a day at the Big A.

I agree. I swear these complainers must all live across the street from Sha Tin or something, because there are far crappier tracks in this country than Aqueduct.

[pba1817]

All history aside, the place really is a dive, but not any worse than another 10 or so tracks I have visited across this country...

[Patrick333]

When I go to a track the two most important things are can I get my bets down easily and are the restrooms relatively clean. As I get older the second is becoming more important than the first.