Monmouth Park opens for its 72nd season of racing Saturday and, while the state's racing and breeding industries continue to face significant challenges, track officials remain optimistic about the sport's future and are committed to presenting fans with a memorable experience at the Jersey shore.
“We continue our efforts to create a fan-friendly facility coupled with top-class racing in New Jersey,” commented Dennis Drazin, advisor to Darby Development LLC, which has operated the track for the last five years. “Our goal of bringing alternative gaming to the racetrack remains paramount. We are surrounded by states with casino-fueled purses, which has put us at a distinctive competitive disadvantage.”
While the battle for sports betting, currently under appeal to the United States Supreme Court, is ongoing, Monmouth Park has found other ways of attracting fans to the historic oval. The track has teamed up with well-known local eateries and will offer patrons a wide range of food and beverage options at reduced prices.
“It's an exciting new time, not just for Monmouth Park, but more importantly for our fans,” said Thomas Barone, vice president of food and beverage. “From the parterres to the picnic area and everywhere in between, there are entirely new menus, food prices, drink specials and dining options.”
Among the new stands will be Shore staples Max's Famous Hot Dogs–favorite local hangout for trainer Bob Baffert when he's in town–and Strollo's Lighthouse Homemade Italian Ice. Lexington-based Kentucky Ale will set up shop at the north end of the grandstand and New Jersey Craft Brew and 'Que will be located just outside the paddock and will feature classic barbecue items and a selection of craft beers.
“We want to give the fans what they want,” Barone explained. “This is a summer facility and our new concessions and menu choices will reflect that. We're certain these changes will be just as well received and we are excited about bringing them to the racetrack.”
Fans will also be treated to lower concession prices–the cost of beer will be down nearly 50% from 2016–as Monmouth Park's food and beverage department will be run in-house for the first time in 2017.
“It's been a great five years so far,” Drazin said. “But certainly no time to rest on our laurels. We are proud of our accomplishments and the hard work that has brought them to fruition, we know much work needs to be done. We will continue our job of ensuring a bright future for Monmouth Park and racing in the Garden State for many years to come.”
Monmouth's 2017 racing season will run from May 13 through Sept. 10.
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