In response to Racing Into The Future by Bob Duff

I found it interesting to read Bob Duff’s articleregarding the move of the industry’s trotting jewel, the Hambletonian.

While the article lays out the reasons for the move, it does not drive home the fact that this decision rests solely on The Meadowlands’ decision not to renew its contract. Meadowlands management opted not to renew the agreement that would have kept the Hambletonian in place. That is on them. No one else. The Hambletonian Society had no choice but to open the bidding process, as required by its bylaws.

It is no secret that Meadowlands management and the Hambletonian Society have not shared the same opinions on several issues over the past few years. That’s okay. What isn’t okay is Mr. Gural’s shortsightedness and selfishness regarding what would best serve the entire industry. To rule with a heavy hand and use leverage to get what you want at the expense of the industry can be dangerous, and possibly destructive. If nothing else, it is ignorant.

While some would have you believe that moving the race signals the end of harness racing as we know it, perhaps they should look beyond New Jersey. Mr. Duff touched on the fact that harness racing is on the rise in the Midwest. While some may consider the Midwest flyover country, harness racing has extremely strong roots here. We have a rich history, a passionate fan base, and an industry that continues to grow. We may have far more to offer than some are willing to admit or recognize. Before continuing to consider us the redheaded stepchild of the industry, give us a chance.

While the largest city in North America may slowly be turning its back on harness racing on the East Coast, perhaps Mr. Duff is right when he suggests, “Maybe this power move to the Midwest is exactly what the sport needs.”

You can spin this controversy any way you want, but please understand that those of us involved in harness racing in the Midwest are proud of where we are, who we are, and what we have accomplished despite being overlooked by so many.

Hoosier Park is not the bad guy here. They simply took advantage of an opportunity created by a bad decision on the part of Mr. Gural.

The Hambletonian is bigger than any one racetrack or individual. If this move ultimately gives the race a new home and provides an opportunity to strengthen harness racing across the country, perhaps the real question isn’t why the Hambletonian is leaving The Meadowlands, but why Meadowlands management was willing to let it go in the first place.

Steve Cross/ Middlebury IN