Delaware North Joins Empire Racing's Bid for NYRA Franchise

• Email
• Print
• Tweet

Delaware North Companies, which operates Finger Lakes racetrack in upstate New York, has joined in the bid by Empire Racing to operate the three New York tracks currently under the auspices of the New York Racing Association.

In addition to Finger Lakes, which Delaware North has owned since 1962, the company has extensive holdings in the hospitality and electronic gaming industries. Based in Buffalo, N. Y., Delaware North operates three video lottery facilities in New York State -- Saratoga Gaming and Raceway, Finger Lakes Gaming and Racetrack and Fairgrounds Gaming & Raceway.

"The addition of this outstanding New York-based company demonstrates our commitment to restoring New York racing to world class status and ensuring that New York racing is run by New Yorkers, for New Yorkers," said Jeff Perlee, Empire Racing CEO.

"With their strong endorsement from New York Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association, it's clear to us Empire Racing is the best choice to revive racing in the state," said Ron Sultemeier, president of Delaware North Companies Gaming & Entertainment.

The Empire Racing statement said Delaware North will be a principle resource in "Empire's RFP response in the areas of hospitality, guest services and racing at the three state owned tracks and gaming operations at the downstate tracks."

The statement added that both Empire Racing and Delaware North reject "the idea of VLT operations at the state's Saratoga Race Course."

Based in Saratoga Springs and Manhattan, Empire Racing is seeking to obtain the franchise to operate Saratoga, Belmont Park, and Aqueduct racecourses.

• Email
• Print
• Tweet