Manor Downs closes, future status uncertain
Manor Downs closes, future status uncertain
By Denis Blake , Texas Thoroughbred Association
AUSTIN, (TTA) – After 21 years as a pari-mutuel racetrack, Manor– Denis Blake
Downs near Austin closed on July 25. In a press
release, the track attributed the closure to “the recent
significant drop in handle due to the economy
along with the migration of horses to our neighboring
states” as the primary reasons for closure.
According to the release, the track is considering
alternative uses for the facility, including
the possibility of a live concert venue. Prior to
the closure, track CEO Howard Phillips indicated that the track could
reopen if it were to be sold or if legislation were passed to help the horse
racing industry.
Outstanding tickets may be cashed up to one year from the date of
issue. Tickets may be cashed in the business office opposite the Turf
Club between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through
Friday. Tickets may also be mailed to: Manor
Downs, P.O. Box 141309, Austin, TX 78714.
Manor, which was is the oldest operating parimutuel
track in Texas, held 14 days of mixed
breed racing earlier this year and had been open
for simulcasting on a year-round basis.
Although the closing will affect both breeds,
it will have a greater impact on Quarter Horses
because Manor averaged about nine Quarter Horse races per day and three
Thoroughbred races. Manor has typically been a starting point for 2-yearold
Quarter Horses and offers two rich futurities. Unlike at the state’s
three Class 1 tracks, the majority of simulcast revenue at Manor goes to the
Quarter Horse purse fund.
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