A three-day Racing and Gaming Conference is set to begin on Monday, August 12, in Saratoga Springs, New York, focusing on the legal and regulatory challenges currently facing the racing industry.
The conference will tackle critical topics, including ongoing litigation involving the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) and broader discussions on the regulation and officiating of the sport. One panel will explore whether the industry needs improved communication between stewards and fans to align with trends in other sports.
Several panels promise in-depth discussions on significant topics. For example, the opening HISA panel on Monday will examine potential cost savings as HISA assumes some regulatory duties from state authorities. Four executive directors from key state regulators in California, Florida, New York, and Texas will discuss any adjustments they've made in response to HISA's new role.
The panel's topic description hints at a thorough examination: "Have state regulators downsized? Have they laid off staff, cut budgets, or reduced their tithe on the industry? Regulators from across the country will discuss how they are adapting to the new HISA world order."
Tuesday's sessions will highlight the sport's recent success stories, including the construction of the new Belmont Park in New York, the success of historical horse racing in Kentucky, and promising developments in Maryland. Notable speakers will include New York Racing Association CEO and president David O'Rourke and Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association CEO and chairman Alan Foreman.
On Wednesday, the conference will shift its focus to pari-mutuel wagering issues, particularly related to international pools. Another panel will examine horse racing's place in the growing sports wagering market. This discussion will address whether horse racing can secure a significant role in the sports betting landscape. The panel description points to a critical debate: "Are racetracks overvaluing their product, or are sportsbooks undervaluing horse racing? Will the industry accept a niche role on a larger platform, or is the future in a more competitive horse-racing-only platform? Sportsbook operators will share their insight."
The conference will kick off at 2 p.m. ET on Monday with opening remarks by Patrick Brown, co-founder of the Racing and Gaming Conference, at the Saratoga Springs Hilton. On Tuesday, former Major League Baseball All-Star and Belmont Stakes (G1) co-owner Jason Werth will deliver the keynote speech.