Horse racing fans around the country are gearing up for the Kentucky Derby next Saturday. The storied run that kicks off the quest for the Triple Crown will bring thousands of people to Michigan’s three horse tracks. Many will place their bets as they watch the Derby via simulcast. They’ll also come to cheer on local horses and riders who come to the tracks to test their mettle. But horse racing is in steady decline in Michigan. The tracks are struggling for their share of gaming revenue that’s largely going to casinos and so-called “racinos” out of state.
The industry says it’s hamstrung by laws that forbid it from expanding into new gaming products. Current State's Kevin Lavery reports that it’s trying to make one more push in the legislature for help.