FARMINGTON, N.Y. (AP) - A group of horsemen has launched a statewide campaign calling on state officials to take action to save Finger Lakes Racetrack.
The Finger Lakes Horsemen Benevolent Protective Association says racing in the region is at risk because of the new Lago Casino, which is scheduled to open by January 2017. The group says the casino will erode track purses, which are supported by existing VLT revenues at the track.
The horsemen’s campaign includes television, radio and online components.
Current law requires the new casino to support racing purses at Tioga Downs, which is more than 120 miles away, while Finger Lakes Racetrack is less than 30 miles from the site of the new casino.
The horsemen are seeking purse protection to ensure at least 126 racing days in 2016.
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