NEWS
Churchill ends with dip in wagering and attendance; Day, McPeek take titles
Posted: Saturday, November 30, 2002
Contending with increased gaming competition in its home market and poor weather conditions, Churchill Downs reported decreases in average daily on-track wagering and attendance for the 30-day fall meet that concluded on Saturday.
The addition of six dates to the meet, however, fueled an increase of 16.5% in total wagering to a record $203,695,292, compared with $174,823,513 during a 24-day meet last year. Average daily wagering fell 6.8% from $7,284,313 to $6,789,843.
Attendance dipped 20.8% from an average of 8,494 to 6,735.
"We believe a combination of factors—headed by the introduction of dockside gaming at riverboat casinos in the region, continued economic uncertainty, and unusually cold and wet weather throughout the meet—contributed to our on-track declines in attendance and wagering," said John Long, Churchill's interim president and chief operating officer of Churchill Downs Inc. "But large crowds and brisk wagering at the track over the Thanksgiving weekend showed that the support of our fans remains strong and Churchill Downs racing continues to be a vital and important part of life in our community."
Jockey Pat Day earned his 18th fall meet riding crown with 50 winners, 23 more than Calvin Borel and apprentice John McKee in second with 27 each.
Ken McPeek won his first training title at Churchill Downs with 15 victories, one more than Carl Nafzger in second with 14.
Ken and Sarah Ramsey collected their sixth consecutive leading owner title at Churchill with seven winners.
