Ellis Park Taken Out Behind That Big White Horse Tent and Shot

If you were looking forward to spending the next few months wearing a fedora, carrying around a race sheet and watching some horses run in Henderson, you’ll be sad to know that Ellis Park won’t be opening this summer and that all employees have been terminated.

Appearing in the U.S. District Court in Owensboro, Ky., on Wednesday, Geary asked for an injunction that would allow him to send Ellis Park’s signal to Advanced Deposit Wagering outlets such as Youbet.com and TVG. The Kentucky Horsemen’s and Benevolent Protective Association (KHBPA) had refused to sign off on the agreement, seeking a larger percentage of the proceeds for purse money.

Ron Geary purchased the track from Churchill Downs two years ago with the plans of rejuvenating the track and restoring the glory days of Ellis Park. Unfortunately that look to be happening. Even though the track if closed for the summer, it doesn’t seem to be for sale, so perhaps live racing can return next year?

I’ve never actually been to a horse race in my life since I’m not the gambling type and think it’s a bit barbaric. That said, it is a bit sad that after the tornado reconstruction, Ellis won’t have a chance to get back on its feet entirely.

photo courtesy of ian_ransley