Horse Racing, As Viewed From the Outside

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Well-known sports writer and commentator Frank Deford likes horse racing. He's one of those guys who, as a youngster, played hooky to take in the races at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore.

But during a WUKY-radio luncheon sponsored by Keeneland and the Lexington Herald-Leader, Deford, in response to a question from the audience, touched on horse racing and its place in the modern sports world. In his opinion, it isn't a pretty picture.

"It's dying on the vine," said Deford, who noted that many young people prefer racecars -- NASCAR -- to racehorses. He said many people just don't have a relationship with the horse anymore, which has contributed to a lack of interest.

Deford, who made his comments in the Keeneland Entertainment Center on the grounds of the hallowed Lexington racetrack, said it was great seeing all the horses in the Lexington area, but, "I see an island of horses surrounded by disinterest."

In a bit of irony, his comments came only two days before the National Thoroughbred Racing Association holds its first annual membership meeting at Keeneland. The NTRA is bullish on the future of the industry, as is the Keeneland Association, which continues to set records with its auctions, and on opening day of its fall race meet lured a crowd of more than 20,000.

Deford, known for his engaging commentaries, spoke for about 45 minutes. He touched on, among other topics, drugs in sports and how sports figures become heroes.

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