Horse racing at Yonkers Raceway reflects a significant decline in spectator numbers, where once 20,000 fans filled the stands, now only a few dozen are present. However, horse owners benefit from lucrative payouts; the racetrack has large purses funded by a portion of slot machine revenues from the adjacent casino, amounting to around $600 million generated last fiscal year. This arrangement, established in 2001, means while public interest wanes, the financial support for owners and purses remains robust, creating a unique dynamic in the racing industry today.
"It’s a lonely time to be a racing fan. For those who own the horses, though, things aren’t so bad. Payouts for winners—the purses—are tremendous."
"Since the peak days of racing where 20,000 fans would fill the stands, the attendance has dwindled to just a few dozen spectators on the track today."
"A lucrative arrangement crafted back in 2001 ensures that a part of the slot machine proceeds would be allocated to support the racing industry, benefiting the Yonkers track significantly."
"Despite online betting, the racetrack’s intake is less than one-fortieth of its peak, highlighting a significant decline in live spectator interest in the sport."
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