The annual Dogwood Classic recently held at Colonial Downs in New Kent County, Virginia may be the only Thoroughbred horseracing fans will see at the racetrack this year. The track is seeking an agreement with a new horsemen’s association in order to offer a Thoroughbred horseracing season.
In addition to the economic impact on the racetrack, Colonial Downs’ off-track betting facilities also are losing money. Spokeswoman Jeanna Bouzek said, “If you don’t have Thoroughbred horseracing at the live track, you can’t have Thoroughbred horse racing showing at the OTB’s.” Four of Colonial Downs’ eight off-track betting sites have had to close because of the horseless season.
New Kent County officials said they expect a loss of more than $400,000 if horseracing doesn’t resume at Colonial Downs. Bouzek said, “Our hope is to have thoroughbred horse racing in 2014.” However, she said, if that doesn’t happen, next year’s season could offer “less days of racing, bringing in better horses and running for more money. It might be tough for 2014, but we are willing to take that chance of not having the racing, so we can put on the type of event in the future that we want to.”
