The former not-for-profit organisation known as the Greater New York Association took control of four surviving New York race tracks in 1955. The old Jamaica racecourse was demolished and Aqueduct, Belmont Park and Saratoga Race Course continued to bring thoroughbred horseracing to New York. Now renamed the New York Racing Association (NYRA) recent years have brought mixed fortunes to both racing and operator.

In 2003 the association was indicted for alleged income tax evasion and money laundering by pari-mutuel staff, but a change in management was sufficient for the indictment to be dismissed in 2005. In November 2006 NYRA filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, claiming the New York State Lottery Division failure to approve VLT machines at Aqueduct had led to the Association’s insolvency.

NYRA’s current franchise for operating year-round racing in New York expires at the end of December. At present there are four bidders for the franchise but yesterday New York Governor Eliot Spitzer asked for them to re-submit their bids, owing to changes in group structures and proposals. Earlier this week the Capital Play Group submission became a joint venture with Mohegan Sun, and before that an agreement between Empire Racing Associates and the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association was ended.

A question of track ownership may influence the final choice of the new franchise holder. NYRA has made a legal claim that it owns the racetracks and not the State. It is thought possible that they may retain the operation of the racetracks, with future Aqueduct and Belmont Park casino facilities given to a different body. Gov. Spitzer has said that he will make a final recommendation by 4 September this year, and has asked for the bidding parties to resubmit their proposals by 7 August. (E-07.20.07)

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