A Synopsis of Greatness - Ray on Racing from 148.ca

A Synopsis of Greatness

Ray Cotolo
November 29, 2013

The standardbred breed has stood in the shadow of thoroughbred racing for its whole existence, exampled by more people knowing of the Kentucky Derby than harness racing's signature event, the Hambletonian. Even those involved in horse racing refer to the standardbred breed as, "the ones with the buggies," as told to me by many.

It's hard for an enthusiast of harness racing to understand how few know of the product. Although, once considering many tracks failure to market the sport and anything involving the phrase "pari-mutual," I soon am able to cope with the ignorance. This ignorance is the slow death of our sport, with few knowing how profitable harness racing is, mostly because they have never heard of it.

Overall, the population has a negative view on gambling, when in fact; harness racing is just a faster version of the stock market. Once someone learns the ins-and-outs of harness racing (reading and interpreting the racing program), then the profit potential is infinite. Of course, profit is only the beginning.

Wagering on harness racing is what should be first advertised with the sport, as with no bettors, there's no racing. Whether it is a simple $2 show wager or a $6 exacta box, any newcomer will feel the thrill of a harness race, even more if they win. Wagering is our sport's bait; it lures first time patrons into returning for another outing at the track, perhaps even bringing their friends. Our sport's interaction with the patrons is one of many aspects that makes it unique.

Once the bettor has become interested in the game, after spending a fair amount of free time focused on racing, they can get down and gritty with the industry, just like an avid football fan gets to know their favorite team's quarterback's favorite cereal (okay, I might be exaggerating). For north of the border readers, the same lesson can be applied with hockey. The main thing is to get people's interest, and if something is in it for them to invest a few dollars, then that will get their attention span like a magnet to iron.

The long-term goal will be to get people betting on races, bringing in more revenue for the tracks and attracting more potential spectators. It's a win-win situation for both parties. People will be able to have a fun night out, while the horsemen can continue to do what they love. Once the partygoers catch the standardbred bug, then they can continue to do what they love as well.

Our sport's greatness is endless, and we can't shove the horses down people's throats. The main reason I am in love with the industry is because of the interactive nature of it, where I am a valued voice in the sport (I hope). For those of age, the greatness comes that they can get a positive return on their investment, while watching top equine athletes and being able to interact with the drivers of said horses. I can guarantee that anyone, who goes to the track with a few friends on a Saturday night, will never forget a night at the races.

Ray Cotolo, long time follower of the harness racing industry, is a presenter on North American Harness Update.

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