Kentucky Derby Could Lose Luster Due To Lack Of Slot Gambling

For years, the Kentucky Derby was the crown jewel of horse racing's Triple Crown. The Preakness and the Belmont, however, have gained ground in popularity over the past few months.

One of the reasons is slot machine gambling. People have become accustomed in today's society to going to race tracks that offer casino gambling as well as horse racing. Of the three states that host the Triple Crown, Churchill Downs will now be the only one that does not have slot gambling.

The president of Churchill Downs expressed his frustration with the current laws in Kentucky regarding slot gambling. "With Maryland voters just approving slots there this week, Kentucky is now the only one of the three states that conduct racing's storied Triple Crown without legislation allowing slot machines," said Bob Evans, in a conference call.

Further indications that Kentucky is in a state of confusion, Governor Steve Beshear has recently hurt his efforts to expand casino gambling in the state. Beshear ran for office on the idea of expanding casino gambling, but then when his proposal was rejected he turned his back on gambling.

Beshear recently led a charge to seize the domain names of online gambling companies. He cited how it is harmful to children to have the gambling readily accessible. That argument is surely one that opposition groups will use against Beshear next time he tries to propose a casino in the state.

"With horse racing fans on the decline, people are looking for other reasons to go to the track. Many states have realized this and expanded their casino laws, but Kentucky and the Derby could be in trouble in the future if they continue to turn away slots," said analyst Henry Tropleau.

November 9, 2008
Posted By April Gardner
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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