Why We Are Where We Are, Part III: Blessed Are The Survivors

The following represents the conclusion of this look at how long-term  trends in Thoroughbred racing have evolved to the point where a turnaround may be near in the sport's economic fortunes. To read part I, click here. For part II, click here.   Defining Development #6–Blessed are the Survivors As a matter of basic free-market [...]

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Why We Are Where We Are, Part II–Real Estate Realities

   The following continues a look at how long-term economic developments shape today's Thoroughbred sport. To read part I, click here. Defining Development #5–Real Estate Realities Has there ever been a time when rising real estate values have not heavily influenced the physical locations of Thoroughbred breeding farms and racetracks? This economic maxim has been [...]

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Why We Are Where We Are, Part I: How We Got Here

My first trip to a Thoroughbred racetrack came in the summer of 1961 at Ellis Park. At the time, I was 16, closing in on 17, and Kelso was four, closing in on the second of five consecutive Horse of the Year titles. Kelso never raced anywhere near Ellis, but his enduring class was such [...]

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