Would Slots Have Prevented Barn Fire?

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Published: December 9, 2009 08:46 am EST

Chalking it up to financial issues, the General Manager of the Ohio Harness Horsemen's Association told Trot Radio that the barns at Lebanon Raceway would have had a sprinkler system installed if the state had received expanded gaming like slots or VLTs

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Jerry Knappenberger discusses the plight of Ohio racing and its impact on the tragic fire, whether or not insurance covered the lost horses and equipment, as well as how the harness racing industry has come forward in this time of need.

To hear the full interview with Knappenberger, click on the play button below.

Episode 75 - Jerry Knappenberger on Lebanon Raceway Fire

Running Time: 6:02

Audio Format: MP3 audio

Host: Norm Borg

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Comments

It is inexcusable that there were no sprinklers there (or any other track). Even if the track is losing money, charge a small monthly surcharge to/for stall rent to install sprinklers. I know the horsemen don't want to pay more, but they sure don't want to see themselves wiped out either.

We have the Slots at all our tracks in Ontario, but havent seen a sprinkler system anywhere yet not even on the big WEG circuit, in the retention barn.

The Ohio HHA should both recall and be aware that Lebanon Raceway (i.e. Warren County fairgrounds owner), made an announcement of DECLINING the VLT's when it was assumed that the Ohio Governor's Budget Plan to initiate VLT's would be implemented.

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