Racing to continue at Monmouth Park

By: SPORTS NETWORK

Trenton, NJ (Sports Network) - Thoroughbred racing at Monmouth Park will go off as planned in 2012. An agreement was reached between the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority and the New Jersey Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association.

"This has been an arduous process but one that I believe was necessary to ensure uninterrupted racing at Monmouth Park and the Meadowlands. At the same time, we are protecting the public interest and preserving jobs at both venues and in New Jersey's equine industry," said Governor Christie. "Our transition to independent, privately operated horse racing facilities will continue in 2012, and I am as optimistic as ever that Monmouth Park will maintain its legacy as a premier venue for thoroughbred horse racing fans for years to come."

Monmouth Park will have 141 days of racing during the upcoming year, however there will be no subsidies or enhancements to racing purses. Purses will be substantially reduced due to the loss of those monies.

Jeff Gural will operate The Meadowlands as earlier agreed upon. A 30-year contract for the operation of the harness track was signed.