Ellis Park, which nearly closed a month ago due to stalled negotiations with horsemen over a new advance deposit wagering contract, announced it will increase purses by 5% beginning Aug. 13 through the close of the current meet Sept. 1.
In a statement, the Western Kentucky track credited a new contract with the Kentucky Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association for the action.
The increase, which will not affect purses for previously announced stakes races, will be added to purses stated in the current condition book, according to the statement.
The new contract between Ellis Park and the KHBPA, whereby approximately 6% of ADW commissions go into purse funds in hopes of a purse increase mid-season, was cited for the decision.
“We are very excited about the partnership we have with the KHBPA," said Ron Geary, owner of Ellis Park. "We hope our agreement with the KHBPA will positively impact the entire Thoroughbred racing industry. The innovative agreement Ellis Park leadership reached with KHBPA has allowed us to not only keep our doors open, but to buck an industry trend of declining purses.”
A poor economy and ADW blockage across the country have been blamed for many tracks cutting purses in 2008.
Ellis Park
