ARFF observes a dying industry
September 23rd, 2006 by admin
Last week, the Sun-Sentinel reported on poor relations between the owner of Broward County’s only dog track and greyhound racing kennel owners. When track owners and trainers are fighting, that’s good news!
The owner of Mardi Gras Race Track & Gaming Center (formerly known as the Hollywood Dog Track) told the paper that he is considering ending live racing at the track, if interest in the “sport” doesn’t improve. Mardis Gras will unveil hundreds of new slot machines in October. The Sun-Sentinel called greyound racing, a “dying sport” and noted that at Mardi Gras, “the amount bet on live races has plummeted from $60.3 million in 1994-95 to $9.6 million in 2004-05.”
This summer, ARFF continued our “Tour De Tracks” with a demonstration at the Jacksonville Kennel Club (Jax was the 6th stop on our tour.) ARFF coordinator Carla Wilson explains, “We have seen the industry decline with our own eyes. For instance, at the Sanford Orlando Kennel Club a parking lot that was full 10 years ago has been bought by a church across the street which they use for parking. Some of these tracks are renting out their property for auto sales and carnivals. Greyhound racing is dying and it feels Great to see that first hand!”
Carla continues, “In Florida, which has the most dog tracks of any state, it’s important for anyone who cares about animals to stay informed about greyhound racing. Activists are enthusiastic about the state-wide protests and we’re enthusiastic about educating the public and being a strong voice for the greyhounds in Florida.”
Check ARFF’s Events Calendar and join us at a dog track protest near you.