While Social Media drones on about the ability of influencers to attract fans and all the good and bad things about racing, Twin Spires took immediate action today to end their ADW being used by Missouri residents and in Missouri. Action that probably negatively affects the game I'd say. I think New Hampshire had the same situation in November 2022 when TS quit their operations there.

For at least the last 8 years or so, Twin Spires allowed Missouri residents to maintain a betting account with them through the Twin Spires app. This afternoon they ceased such operation in Missouri. The number of texts, emails, and phone calls that I received within that hour was more than I would have ever anticipated. I only have speculation about what transpired and how people will adjust that can.

No other ADW has ever operated in Missouri. It seems very clear that it is not legal in Missouri but there is an ever so slight couple of words that would give one a belief there is a 1 out of 500 shot it is legal. I guess that was enough for Twin Spires to play Catch me If you Can or I dare you to take us down. My guess is that The Missouri AG office notified them to cease and desist immediately or prior to February 1st. That's speculation. I also wonder if it is due to the fact that sports betting is being considered here or maybe competitors of Twinspires decided to alert the authorities. I have no idea but it is a disappointing day for folks in this state that play the races.

I would expect that while Fairmount is still open (for simulcasting and live racing again in April) that the Saturday afternoon crowd will grow somewhat. Some in Missouri are too far to go there to bet but the STL crowd I already know is probably going to adjust by crossing the Mighty Mississippi to get their bets down in Collinsville.

For those of you in a state where you can at least gamble on horse racing, things are better for you than you realized. And for those seeking info on how to attract fans, probably lost more dollars per year today than Alix attracted to the game at Gulfstream on Pegasus Day.