If the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission approves, and there appear to be no reasons it would not, Ellis Park will reopen for simulcasting on Jan. 1 and stay open year-round as Instant Racing machines are installed early in 2012.
The Henderson track also will have no overlap with Churchill Downs for its live race meet, which would encompass 30 race dates from July 1 through Labor Day. Churchill did not ask for the July 4 holiday when it made its presentation to the racing commission in Lexington.
"It's a lot to process but we believe it's a lot of good news for us, for horsemen in Kentucky, and for horse-racing fans," said Ellis owner Ron Geary. "It's going to be busy, but it's going to be a good busy."
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