TOPEKA, KS—MAY 29, 2015—Supporters hoping to bring horse racing back to Kansas hit yet another obstacle in moving legislation through the process that would have allowed The Woodlands in Kansas City, Kansas to re-open its doors as well as Eureka Downs.

After passing the state senate by an overwhelming margin, the bill was sent on to the House of Representatives for approval where the Speaker, Ray Merrick who has been a long-time opponent of horse racing, sent the bill to committee and promised not to bring it out the remainder of this session. After reviewing all procedural options available, it does not appear that anything can be done to overcome the Speaker’s decision. However, the bill will carry over into the 2016 session that begins in January. Lobbyists are very optimistic that the grass-roots efforts similar to what succeeded in getting the bill passed out of the senate will be enough to convince Merrick to allow passage in the House.

The Kansas Quarter Horse Racing Association (KQHRA) spearheaded the effort again this year with help from many Oklahoma horsemen who understand the positive effects an added 60 racing days each year can mean to the industry. The facility known as The Woodlands has been for sale since its closing in 2008.

With the momentum demonstrated in the legislature this year, three different parties expressed an interest in buying the once successful track, but none until after legislation has passed that would lower the state’s share of slot machine proceeds to a manageable level. However, not having a firm commitment from any of these potential developers to show legislators their plans has made it difficult to convince some that the track could be more than a rundown racetrack with slot machines scattered about.

Of course, this is the scenario the Hollywood Casino attempt to lead politicians to believe in order to protect their exclusivity on the Kansas City, Kansas area gambling market.

Senator Anthony Hensley, of Topeka, said it best during the floor debate on the bill two weeks ago, “These horse people were here first. The Woodlands was the only place to gamble in Kansas, and a very nice one. The casinos rode their shirt-tails in to where they are today. And now we are telling these horsemen they don’t have the right to do something that has been done in Kansas for over 100 years? This is just wrong!”

No plans have yet been discussed concerning a possible effort for 2016 to continue the legislative push, but those closest feel confident there will be one.

“We made tremendous progress this year with the lobbying effort and help of engaged folks throughout the state making phone calls and emailing legislators. We hope to use that momentum going into next legislative session. People tend to underestimate the power those calls can make” says Rita Osborn, president of KQHRA. “No matter the issue or the state, everyone must take part when horse racing is at stake.”.

The KQHRA wishes to thank all who supported the effort this year with their time and fundraising. The AQHA and stallion and mare owners alike stepped up and made concessions to help make it work, showing how truly supportive our industry is of one another. Horsemen have been characterized as the eternal optimists … next year’s foal crop will be better than ever. 2016 may be the year Kansas brings racing back to the state.