Florida Horse Breeders: Slots Needed

Separated by miles of fence line, some white and others brown, pastures that have raised some of thoroughbred racing's greatest horses stretch across Marion County while the sport's next generation of stars grazes contentedly.

"…But in the middle of this beauty, just beyond the training centers, undulating hills and picturesque barns, there is concern throughout the thoroughbred industry. With thoroughbred racing revenues fading, breeders are wrestling with a tough choice: maintain farms at high expense to support the industry they love, or sell their highly valuable land and further erode breeding in Florida.

"It is, industry officials say, a dilemma they may have avoided had state legislators implemented guidelines and tax rates for Constitutional Amendment 4, the Broward County measure approved by voters in March legalizing slot machines at four pari-mutuel venues.

"Without slot machine revenue to stop plummeting purses at Florida's racetracks, 'we're going to go down pretty quick,' said Richard Hancock, executive director of the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders' and Owners' Association.

"…Hancock thinks slot machines at Gulfstream Park and, ultimately, Calder Race Course in Miami-Dade County, could double thoroughbred purses. The additional purse money would not only help boost breeders awards but would bring new owners into the game who are currently sitting on the sidelines because the return on their investment is negligible…"