Much of that money has gone to help improve the industry's image. In 1997, an interim management team was assembled and a board of directors created. On April 1, 1998, an NTRA office was opened in Lexington, Ky.
I must interject, however, the NTRA is bombing with its TV commercials. "Go Baby Go" is a great slogan. My granddaughters recite it.
But this year's commercials make no sense. In fact, they pale even in comparison with last year's $15 million campaign, comprising four commercials starring actress Lori Petty. At least her message was loud and clear: Bettors can have fun and win.
This year's eight commercials, filmed last November at Calder, are ridiculous. The expanded 1999 campaign, valued at $25 million, features well-known actor Rip Torn. Unfortunately, most of his utterings I've viewed are incomprehensible. The ads lack focus.
It doesn't end there. One of the more subpar presentations occurred on the Fox TV network June 27. It was the $1 million Hollywood Gold Cup. Only four horses were entered. More embarrassing was spoofing the megahit movie "Austin Powers the Spy Who Shagged Me."
Trainer Bob Baffert was made up to look like the film's two main characters, Powers and Dr. Evil. This slant, which didn't shag me, we don't need. Real Quiet won, but racing lost. The program was nerdy.
If the highlight of Del Mar's season, the $1 million Pacific Classic on Aug. 29, is presented in a like manner, horse racing will suffer another setback. We can only hope for more than a four-horse field.
We also can hope that the NTRA will develop a more clever, dignified presentation.
Go To Page: 1
