Miner optimistic about future at Fonner

Grand Island, NE - February 23, 2011 - Horse racing in Nebraska, and all around the nation, has gone through a transformation in the past 20 years or so.

Other forms of gambling have become more popular and available — like the casinos just across the Nebraska-Iowa line in Council Bluffs.

Even with all the problems the industry has faced, Fonner Park Executive Director Hugh Miner says he is confident that the sport won’t die here in the state in general and Fonner Park in particular.

“The industry will continue to survive in one fashion or another,” Miner said earlier this week. “There’s been a long-standing tradition here with racing and we still have people who come out that enjoy racing. It’s our job to take care of them and that’s what we do.”

Miner said the versatility of Fonner Park has been a key to it becoming the dominant track in Nebraska. Not only does it have the 31-day racing meet that begins on Friday, but there are numerous other events that Miner says enhance the experience for the horse racing fans.

Last year there were a number of concerts held in conjunction with the races. This year there are several different events like the Nebraska Danger Indoor Football team, the USA State Wrestling Tournament March 18-20 and the “Rumble in the Jungle” WBC championship fight this Saturday night that will help draw people to the race track.

Miner said the seat sales for the club house are up a bit from last year. He said there is one group of 90 people coming this weekend.
 

Read More: By Bob Hamar - The Independent