Arlington Park seeks approval for 3 nights of racing in 2012
By Mike Porcaro
Midwest Thoroughbred
www.mwtmag.com
As part of its annual request to the Illinois Racing Board for racing dates, Arlington Park has asked for 3 night racing dates for next season. Arlington requested a total of 90 race days in 2012 with race nights most likely for Friday or Saturday evenings. Night racing, under temporary lights, is expected to increase both attendance and handle, as it has at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky. since night racing began there in 2009.
Tony Petrillo, General Manager of Arlington Park, told the Daily Herald, “We want to start off very slow, make sure we do things right. We’re excited about this. We’re offering the fans something new and exciting and a chance to attend the races during non-work hours.”
The plan was met with enthusiasm by officials of Arlington Heights, Ill. where the track is located. “That’s a wonderful sign that they’re working hard to sustain. Keeping them open is a big concern of the village,” village Mayor Arlene Mulder said of the plan.
The Illinois Racing Board will vote on the matter at its meeting on Sept. 27.