Silver et al,
The board is probably a microcosm of the entire industry.
Drugs overtook the sport at nearly every level and location the past 5 years. Prior to that it was happening but not this prevalent. The inmates started running the asylum. Meanwhile, Gamblers have found it harder and harder to win during this same time period as computer teams and rebates completely changed how profitable players pursue their profits the past decade or so.
Many people have moved their tack to twitter with their gambling and racing opinions. Some have drifted away from the game altogether. Others agree that only Clowns are posting here (I had a friend tell me that a few weeks ago via phone and he implied it included me! But no worries, I keep posting a bit. LOL.)
Racing seems to be in decline on some fronts. The gambling numbers are pretty static it seems for total handle but when 34% of all Pick 5 handle at Del mar comes from 8 accounts at Elite Turf Club (See Pat Cummings twitter), it tells you that ordinary bettors are not growing the game. Foal crops are way down from a decade ago, field size is way down, Arlington Park is likely closing soon and the game is not thriving. The TG board is, in part, a reflection of where the game is at these days.
I am guilty on the Baffert front. But he has tested positive in the SA Derby, the Ark Derby, the Ky Oaks and Ky Derby. That's quite a problem and deserves scrutiny. But I have not chased the Rose, Trump or Fox News fronts.
Labor Day weekend was one of my favorites a few years ago at the Spa. Very memorable weekend. I too hope to make it at least once but with flights far different now (price and less direct options) and rental cars a disaster, it is looking less and less likely. But one good pick 4 in the next week or so and an impulsive spur of the moment trip might be in order no matter the cost.
If I can make it, I look forward to seeing some TG-ers at the one spot you can still enjoy a day at the races no matter the state of the game or the state of the TG Board.
