Sometimes looking back can give you the best perspective on the best steps to take forward. For example, I recall about fifteen years ago I was speaking with a friend of mine who ran a consulting business, and who was working on a report on harness racing. While he didn’t have a background in our industry, he summarized his initial findings this way: “It seems everyone involved knows that unless significant changes are made the industry could be dead, but there are three obstacles to change: no one seems to know what changes have to be made, no one knows how to bring about change, and it seems everyone thinks it is only the other fellow who needs to change. People in key positions want to hold their ground, with the belief that having dug themselves into a hole they have the skill to dig themselves back out, all they need is a bigger shovel.”
I believe we have to think of these words as we deal with local or national industry issues. The good news is that we have a long history to reference, and a great deal of committed people who want to help. The challenge is getting started, and choosing the appropriate path forward.
The change that has to be made is to develop partnerships with our governments, so that a successful racing and gaming model can be established, re-invigorated, or refurbished. A recent article in the Columbus Business Insider stated that the recently established racinos in the State of Ohio are generating more revenue than the state’s casinos. The racinos at Scioto (up 8%) and Penn National (up 7%) are showing very healthy growth and are leading a revival in the local horse racing industry. This reinforces the experience of many other provinces and states, where a partnership between industry and government has lead to a revitalization of their industry.
As for how to bring about change, the great news is that it all starts with us. The only way for a meaningful relationship to be established with any government is for the industry to speak with one voice. No matter what past disagreements, grievances, or disputes have existed, turn the page. The industry needs our best people, bringing with them the best skills to step forward and for all of us to commit to a common goal.
In order for this to happen, we will all have to change a little. The goal of common good must take precedence, not individual attitudes striving for what seems best for some in certain locales or sectors of the industry. Resist the temptation to think ‘as long as I am doing ok it will be ok’, without regard to the entire industry. Winston Churchill said an appeaser is someone who feeds others to the crocodiles, hoping to be eaten last.
Always remember, the most effective generals are not those who tried to lead from the back, ordering their troops over the hill, the best are out front, saying follow me.