miff Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Bee,
>
> The meet will be fine, racing wise, though I
> suspect that grass races will be oversubscribed
> and dirt races tougher to fill.NYRA will card too
> many races, per usual,watering down quality.
>
> Agree with frontside facelift but backyard changes
> horrific.NYRA could easily accommodated picnic
> table situation without money grab. As far as
> those families that you correctly note come with
> food etc, me thinks they are part of the whole SPA
> experience even though they don't bet much $$.
> Nice families blending in with us degenerates,
> it's Americana!
>
> Stand by my rants that Chris Kay is a f-king idiot
> and NYRA is the most incompetent group running a
> major venue.NYRA's disregard for the gambler is
> disgraceful.
>
> Mike


Mike, I think you correctly identify that it's at least a two-prong approach. As Richie suggests, the quality of racing is paramount. Beyond that, you look at the value of the Saratoga meet as a one-of-a-kind opportunity to promote the game. For example, is there value in encouraging family participation even if they don't move the meter at the windows, just because a few of them might one day grow into actual players? Those of us in Act 2, however that number might be defined, will probably continue to come, regardless, but just grouse more. But, what do they have that will continue to lure the next wave? The intrinsic appeal of the game is not going to be enough as it's currently configured. Bells and whistles have to be added in terms of technological hooks. But, Saratoga stands apart from that. Defining and preserving that character should be paramount in the business plan. I'm not seeing it.