By Lisa Autry
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wkms/local-wkms-845130.mp3
Henderson, KY – This year will be the last for Henderson's Ellis Park thoroughbred horse racing track. The site will close for good on Labor Day this year.
Ellis park owner Ron Geary says this summer's live racing meet will be the last. The horse track in Henderson has existed 88 years, but its survival depended on whether or not state lawmakers approved video slot machines at racetracks. Right after a senate committee defeated the bill last night, Geary said he was extremely disappointed and never thought it would come to this. Without expanded gambling, Geary says there is no way to compete with other states that offer larger purses.
Turfway park in northern Kentucky may become another casualty. President Bob Elliston points to neighboring Ohio where a slots proposal is gaining strength. Elliston predicts if the Ohio legislation passes, Turfway will be out of business.