Horse Racing at Jack Thistledown Racino - North Randall, Ohio

Описание: Jack Thistledown Racino: A Comprehensive Overview

Location: North Randall, Ohio
Owners: Vici Properties
Operators: Jack Entertainment
Introduction

Jack Thistledown Racino, nestled on the outskirts of Cleveland in North Randall, Ohio, stands as a notable venue in the realm of thoroughbred racing and gaming. Owned by Vici Properties and operated by Jack Entertainment, this facility has a rich history and has evolved significantly over the years. Known for its thoroughbred racing and the Ohio Derby, Thistledown has transformed from a traditional racetrack into a modern racino with gaming amenities.
Historical Background

Early Beginnings:

Thistledown Racetrack's origins date back to its regulation by the Ohio Racing Commission in 1931, when the Commission was established. Over the decades, it has become a central fixture in Ohio's racing community, hosting the prestigious Ohio Derby—the only graded stakes race in the state.

The Ohio 7/7 Program:

Thistledown is part of the Ohio 7/7 Program, which involves simultaneous live racing at two locations in Ohio. During the summer months, Thistledown hosts seven races on a card, while Belterra Park (formerly River Downs) holds the remaining seven. In September, Beulah Park takes over from Belterra Park. Racing in Ohio typically pauses from January to March.

Economic Challenges:

In 2007, Thistledown faced significant financial difficulties. Magna Entertainment, the track's parent company at the time, reported substantial losses totaling $87.4 million in 2006 and an accumulated deficit of $393.8 million. The company declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy, putting Thistledown’s future in jeopardy. The track, which was once a prominent racing venue with the $300,000 Ohio Derby, struggled with financial strains and competition.

Acquisition and Renovation:

In 2010, Harrah's Entertainment (now Caesars Entertainment) acquired Thistledown for $43 million. Subsequently, it became part of a joint venture with Rock Gaming. A pivotal moment came in June 2012 when Ohio authorized racetracks to offer video lottery terminals (VLTs). This legislative change led to the transformation of Thistledown into a racino.

Racino Development:

In August 2012, Rock Ohio Caesars unveiled plans to invest $88 million into Thistledown’s redevelopment. The project aimed to revamp the facility with a 57,000 sq. ft. gaming space housing approximately 1,150 VLTs. Additional upgrades included a 60-seat restaurant, two food court outlets, and a lounge, marking a significant shift towards integrating gaming with racing.

Rebranding and Recent Changes:

Rock Gaming acquired Caesars Entertainment's 20% stake in Rock Ohio Caesars in February 2015 and assumed management of the properties, including Thistledown. By February 2016, Rock Gaming announced a rebranding of its casinos under the Jack name. Thistledown underwent a brief closure in March 2016 for the transition.

In 2020, Jack Entertainment sold Thistledown to Vici Properties in a leaseback deal worth $843 million, which included Jack Cleveland Casino. The deal involved renting the properties back to Jack for $66 million annually.

Impact of COVID-19:

On March 13, 2020, Thistledown closed in response to the State of Ohio's directives related to mass gatherings. The facility remained closed until restrictions were lifted, after which it experienced record-breaking revenues in March 2021, highlighting its resilience and recovery.
Physical Attributes

Track Configuration: Thistledown features a one-mile dirt oval track. It does not have a turf course, focusing exclusively on dirt racing.

Racing Schedule and Events

Ohio Derby:

Thistledown's premier race is the Grade III Ohio Derby, which stands as the highlight of the racing calendar at the track.

Other Races:

The track also hosts a variety of overnight handicaps and minor stakes races throughout its racing season, which runs from April to September. Notable races include:

Angenora Stakes
Dr. T. F. Classen Memorial Stakes
Mike Rowland Memorial Handicap
J. William (Bill) Petro Memorial Handicap
Cleveland Gold Cup
Rose DeBartolo Memorial Stakes
George Lewis Memorial Stakes
Cleveland Kindergarten Stakes
Miss Ohio Stakes
Governor's Buckeye Cup
Best of Ohio Distaff
Best of Ohio Endurance
Best of Ohio Sprint
Juvenile Stakes
Honey Jay Stakes

Conclusion

Jack Thistledown Racino, with its deep-rooted history and recent modern enhancements, represents a dynamic fusion of thoroughbred racing and gaming. Its transformation from a traditional racetrack to a contemporary racino underscores the evolving landscape of the gaming and racing industry in Ohio. With its premier events like the Ohio Derby and ongoing investments in gaming facilities, Thistledown remains a significant player in the regional entertainment scene.