Arlington Park's future pondered again amid purse negotiation

HRN Staff
Photo: Jon Durr / Eclipse Sportswire

The cloud of uncertainty surrounding Arlington Park's future continues to hang over Illinois horsemen and the racetrack’s parent company, Churchill Downs, Inc.

The two have reportedly reached an impasse regarding purse levels for 2020, with this coming on the heels of Churchill's decision not to seek a gaming license at the track believing it would cut into business at its nearby Rivers Casino.

Subsequently, Arlington's 2020 race dates were threatened but eventually given by regulators. Now, the Daily Herald reports that negotiations have stalled between the Illinois Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association and Churchill Downs regarding purse levels.

According to the Herald, neighboring states average between $180,000-$200,000 in daily purses. Illinois horsemen are seeking $200,000, while Churchill is considering an amount closer to $130,000.

The horsemen have indicated that they want the higher rate even if it means cancelling the venue's signature event, the Arlington Million (G1).

When asked by the Daily Herald as to what the chances were of Arlington racing next year were, ITHA president Mike Campbell replied, “I’d say it’s 50 percent."

See the full Daily Herald report here.

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