Over on Alex Brown's site, he is taking suggestions for how the NTRA (National Thoroughbred Racing Association)can appeal to younger patrons. This is your opportunity to let the powers that be know how to make the sport more fan friendly. So please voice your opinions so they can pass them on.
As for me, well I have been reading other comments and agree with the links that emphasize education--of the casual fan as well as of long time players and those that advise making the venues more family friendly. The problem is getting those fans into the gate and short of give-aways or free admission days, I am not sure what will motivate people to come.
The other opportunity that I think tracks are overlooking is that broad stretch of time between races. Think about what major league baseball does between innings: dance contests, flying hotdogs flung from the mascots roving "hotdogmobile," fun shots of fans in the stands on the jumbotron and music, music music to keep the pace upbeat and the fans in the game.
What about some video clips of past Kentucky Derbys or even snippets from Seabiscuit? What about informational clips from jockeys and trainers about special equipment or horseshoes or the history of racing silks? What about some glory days shots of Secretariat?
I know the lull is for the handicappers to consider the next race and the jockeys to shower and change silks, but the leisurely pace is lost on this video game generation who like to be constantly stimulated. And even if you hate the three ring circus aspect of professional sports, you have to admit they keep things lively.
So my two cents is to pay some attention to the pace of the day and see if you can use the opportunities between races to educate and entertain. And not just about horse racing and handicapping but also about the human-animal bond. Make it fun. Make it fast (to watch) and make it feasible for everyone to participate.
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1 comment:
In my opinion, they're not using the resources they have now.
I was shocked, for example, when Penny Chenery made an appearance at my local track, Colonial Downs, to meet fans and there was absolutely NO promotion or notice of the event.
And it wouldn't hurt to promote the jockeys a little, and maybe some of the horses through some literature or displays, so they're more than just numbers.
If it were nothing more than a riding today display at the entrance with nice photographs and some background information, it would still serve to form some "connection" between the fans and the event.
TvNB
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