Thoroughbred racing in the United States is at the forefront of a renaissance that could change substantially how existing fans engage with the sport and its effectiveness in attracting new fans. This forecast was offered in remarks made by Todd Gralla, principal/director of equestrian services for Populous, a global architectural design company, Aug. 1 during The Jockey Club Round Table Conference on Matters Pertaining to Racing held in Saratoga Springs, N.Y.
Initial speakers during the 72nd Annual Round Table Conference on Matters Pertaining to Racing in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., discussed successful initiatives and technological advancements aimed at improving the horse racing industry. The Aug. 1 conference, presented by The Jockey Club, began with a welcome from TJC chair Stuart Janney III and remarks from Jim Gagliano, TJC’s president and COO. The Round Table was livestreamed, and a replay will be posted at jockeyclub.com.
One of the “flyover state Derbies” for 3-year-olds held during the summer months, Sunday’s Grade 3 West Virginia Derby at Mountaineer Race Track and Casino has been drawing big-league trainers and their prospects over the past 20 years or so ever since casino money inflated the race’s purse into the $500,000 range where it currently stands.
