Emerald Downs Announces 52 Race Dates for 2027 Season
Emerald Downs is set for 52 race days in 2027, but faces financial uncertainties amid state budget concerns.
New Racing Calendar Confirmed
Emerald Downs has received approval to host a total of 52 races during the 2027 season, running from May 1 through September 19. The decision came from the Washington Horse Racing Commission (WHRC) during a recent meeting where track management presented the proposed schedule, which was unanimously accepted.
Financial Challenges Ahead
The meeting on November 13 featured extensive discussions about the financial future of horse racing in Washington. Participants expressed concerns over the funding needed to cover the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) assessments for 2027, as well as the precarious position of the WHRC's own budget. Without additional funding sources, the sustainability of Emerald Downs could be at risk.
Phil Ziegler, president of Emerald Downs, acknowledged the uncertainties, stating, "There are many unknowns regarding legislative support that could benefit the industry. However, we are proceeding with our racing schedule for now." This decision follows the previous two years, where Emerald Downs was allocated 51 race dates but had to cut four dates from the 2026 schedule due to insufficient Thoroughbred participation.
Adjustments to Racing Format
Ziegler detailed the adjustments for the upcoming season, noting that horsemen will enjoy an extended racing calendar with additional weekends into September. However, the purse money remains unchanged, and the horse population continues to be uncertain. The track will aim to attract Quarter Horses as part of revitalization efforts.
To accommodate the new dates, Ziegler indicated that there might be fewer races scheduled per day in 2027. He expressed optimism that this decision would align with feedback from stakeholders about the desired calendar.
Stakeholder Collaboration
Pat LePley, president of the Washington Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association (WHBPA), noted ongoing collaboration with Emerald management to finalize the meet details. This includes developing a purse schedule and a proposed stakes schedule.
Although the WHRC approved the race dates, they opted unanimously not to cover their $917,745 HISA assessment, which shifts the financial burden to other industry stakeholders. This decision follows their previous choice to skip the payment for the 2026 assessment.
Urgent Budget Needs
The total assessment for Washington in 2027 stands at $1,219,653, with a potential reduction through HISA credits if the WHRC contributes to drug testing and other duties. However, the commission might struggle to maintain operations without state budget allocation, possibly exhausting funds by next August.
Doug Moore, chair of the WHRC, emphasized the urgency of securing financing by meeting with the governor's policy advisors to highlight the importance of the commission for horse racing's survival in Washington. He pointed out that neglecting to fund the commission could threaten the existence of horse racing in the state.
Looking Ahead
Moore conveyed a sense of concern about the industry's future, stating, "Without legislative help, the commission is facing potential closure, which would inadvertently raise costs for the industry, already under financial strain. Regardless of the well-intentioned actions today, we are looking at some tough times ahead if our budget situation doesn't improve."
The leaders at Emerald expressed that the ramifications of failed funding from the legislature would put significant pressure on both the commission and horsemen, who have until now been shielded from certain fees. Ziegler reinforced the need for assistance, stating, "If we don’t receive support, it will create substantial challenges for us all in the industry."
