JC / Railbird

It’s the Racing

Or, how to grow without relying on slots. Knowing that the machines won’t be legalized in Virgina anytime soon, or possibly ever, “Colonial Downs, which is in its ninth year, is something of a throwback in the racing industry, a facility that is counting on building a better racing product through year-round simulcasting at a wide-ranging network of off-track betting sites; by account wagering over the Internet and by telephone; by presenting full fields of competitive races into simulcast-land; and by making a day at the races comfortable for both new and old fans.” The strategy shows promise: racing days, handle, and attendance have increased in the past four years. (Daily Racing Form)