In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the upcoming racing schedule and its impact on attendance and revenue at the local racetrack. The proposed racing days are set for Tuesdays and Saturdays, with post times of 1 PM on Tuesdays and 7:30 PM on Saturdays, except for the Kentucky Derby Day, which will also have a 1 PM post time.

The racetrack has reported a 6% increase in on-track handle and a 13% increase in overall handle compared to last year. Despite a 4% decline in attendance on Tuesdays—attributed to weather-related cancellations—Saturdays have seen a significant 19% increase in attendance. Officials emphasized the importance of maintaining these racing days to continue attracting customers.

The proposed racing schedule spans from April 22 to October 28, totaling 55 days, with a commitment of $5.5 million in purses for horsemen next year. Communication with the Horsemen's Association has been ongoing, ensuring their involvement in the planning process.

Concerns were raised regarding competition with Hawthorne Race Course, which has also scheduled races on Saturdays. Officials acknowledged that competing for the same pool of horses could hinder field sizes, which currently average between six to seven horses per race. The situation has improved since Hawthorne adjusted its schedule to include Thursdays, allowing for better distribution of horses between the two tracks.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the racetrack's strategic focus on optimizing its schedule and enhancing its appeal to both horsemen and racing fans, while navigating the challenges posed by competition and weather conditions.