J. E. Widener

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 economics, it is possible to view the past 30-plus years of contraction in U.S. races, racing dates, and racetracks as an unfortunate, but necessary adjustment to a changing competitive environment. The Thoroughbred sport, presented to...

Two years ago at Keeneland January, a short yearling colt by Street Sense from Twirl Me, by Hard Spun, exchanged hands for $35,000. He'd been sold in-utero by Godolphin for $30,000 at Keeneland November in 2017 and was foaled the following year in Bakersfield, California, at Jason Tackitt's Rising Star Farm, the colt's official breeder. Tackitt said he'd been advised to jettison the colt in January because of a knee lucency (decreased bone density) and "bad hocks." The colt was re-sold at Keeneland that September for $75,000 and then again...