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NTRA's Smith Sees Positive Trends in Horse Racing

NEW YORK – As reported by the Thoroughbred Times: ``Speaking at the National Thoroughbred Racing Association Annual Meeting and Marketing Summit on Monday at the Mirage Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Commissioner Tim Smith said that Thoroughbred racing is thriving and that the industry has done a good job in getting that message out.

``Smith pointed out that the recently concluded Del Mar meet enjoyed increased attendance and total handle, this year's Haskell Invitational Handicap (G1) at Monmouth Park set an all-time New Jersey state record for on-track attendance and total handle, and the Belmont Stakes (G1) and Travers Stakes (G1) drew record crowds of more than 101,000 and 66,000, respectively.

``Smith said publicity from the movie 'Seabiscuit,' Funny Cide's run at a Triple Crown, and the story of his owners, Sackatoga Stable, have all helped.

``To keep the ball rolling, Smith said the NTRA would like to see more cooperation from its members.

``…Smith chided 'free-riders,' noncontributors who benefit directly from the work of the NTRA and the racing industry but have not paid dues in five years…"

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