Minnesota Racing Commission Approves Historical Horse Racing For Canterbury, Harness Track

Originally posted on Paulick Report | Last updated Apr 3, 2024 6:48 PM ET

In the face of opposition from Indian tribes that operate casinos in the state, the Minnesota Racing Commission on Monday voted 5-1 to approve historical horse racing machines at Canterbury Park and the Running Aces harness track, according to a report in the Star-Tribune. The commission authorized up to 500 machines per track, effective May 21.

The vote came after 3 1/2 hours of discussion that included warnings from both track officials and horsepeople that racing's days may be numbered in Minnesota. Canterbury's purses fell by 21 percent in 2023 after the expiration of a 10-year deal with the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community, operators of the Mystic Lake Casino. That agreement contributed over $7 million per year in purses, the Star-Tribune reported. With smaller field size due to the reduced purses, wagering was down 42 percent, the report said. Only 78 Minnesota-bred foals were registered in 2023, the lowest since the program began.

Track officials said a study they commissioned estimated 500 HHR machines would generate nearly $6 million in year two for purses, breeding incentives, aftercare and regulatory expenses.

The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux tribe and the Minnesota Indian Gaming Association spoke against tracks getting HHR and could pursue legal action, the report said.

HHR gaming gave Oaklawn in Arkansas a much-needed boost in 2000, where historical horse racing was first launched under the brand name Instant Racing. Oaklawn has since added slots and other forms of gaming. HHR also led to the reopening of Colonial Downs in Virginia, and is responsible for soaring purses and track revenues at Kentucky racetracks.

Read the full report at Star-Tribune.

This article first appeared on Paulick Report and was syndicated with permission.

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