Like a handful of other jurisdictions south of the border, players in Virginia's horse racing industry are sounding the alarm, saying that unless something is done to help the state compete with its neighbors
, Virginia's horse racing industry will be at risk.
An article by the Richmond Times-Dispatch cites recession, industry decline, political opposition to expanded gaming, and competition from neighboring states as major factors as to Virginia horse racing's recent woes.
"The industry is in, I would call it, the most severe downturn that it has ever been in in Virginia," Virginia Thoroughbred Association Executive Director Glenn Petty was quoted as saying.
Virginia Racing Commission Executive Secretary Victor Harrison was also quoted in the article as saying, "Some form of slot machine/alternative gaming or instant racing should be approved eventually in the commonwealth. Without it, a crisis in Virginia horse racing may arise."
(With files from the Richmond Times-Dispatch)