Report - Race Track Industry Program

Transcription

Report - Race Track Industry Program
University of Arizona
Race Track Industry Program
Promotions of 1999
Researched and Compiled By: Heather Haviland
Jon Shonk
Pat Bove
1
Table of
Contents
Beulah… … … … … … … … … … … … … … … ...4
Calder Race Course… … … … … … … … … … ..6
Del Mar… … … … … … … … … … … … … … ...12
Delta Downs… … … … … … … … … … … … … 16
Ellis Park… … … … … … … … … … … … … … .18
Emerald Downs… … … … … … … … … … … ...29
Fair Meadows at Tulsa… … … … … … … … … 32
Fonner Park… … … … … … … … … … … … … .34
Gulfstream Park … … … … … … … … … … … .39
Hollywood Park … … … … … … … … … … … .40
Hoosier Park… … … … … … … … … … … … ...43
Louisiana Downs… … … … … … … … … … … 51
Monmouth Park … … … … … … … … … … … .53
Remington Park … … … … … … … … … … … .57
River Downs… … … … … … … … … … … … ...59
Sam Houston Race Park… … … … … … … … .60
Santa Anita… … … … … … … … … … … … … ..64
Wyoming Downs… … … … … … … … … … … 65
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Appendix… … … … … … … … … … … … … … 68
Track A… … … … … … … … … … … … .69
Track B… … … … … … … … … … … … .70
Track C… … … … … … … … … … … … .72
Track D… … … … … … … … … … … … .74
Track E… … … … … … … … … … … … . 77
Track F… … … … … … … … … … … … ..78
Track G… … … … … … … … … … … … .80
Track H… … … … … … … … … … … … .81
Track I… … … … … … … … … … … … ...82
Cover Art… … … … … … … … … … … ...83
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Beulah Park
Most Effective Promotion: The Beulah Twins
As a small track, Beulah needed to come up with something very different to make
people take notice. Knowing that the Beulah signal could not compete with major tracks,
management came up with a TV formatted signal that featured “Twin Picks.”
As an alternative to the traditional “talking heads” concept, they pulled two attractive
twin girls off the mutuel line and had them trained to do handicapping shows between the
races. Since incorporating the twins into Beulah’s TV program, off track numbers have
increased over $20+ million. Additionally, the Beulah Twins have been covered by the
TV show Extra, featured in a New York Daily News article, highlighted in an eight page
feature on the Playboy website, and featured on the WWF.
Cost of this Promotion: N/A
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Schedule of Promotions
Summer Events:
June 3
Country Jam Concert
-Jo Dee Messina
-The Wilkersons
-Ty Herndon
-Rascal Flats
June 23-35
Big Bear Hot Air Balloon Festival
-Mass Balloon Ascensions (twice daily)
-Village People in Concert
-Beach Boys in Concert
-Clint Black in Concert
-Richard Scarys Busytown Express
-Arts and Crafts
July 1
Grove City Fireworks Display
-Fireworks and local music
Additional Promotions:
Newcomer Club
Mystery Voucher
Handicapping Contest
60 Second Betting Spree
Hat Giveaway
Old Times Weekend
Kentucky Derby Party
Budweiser Clydesdale
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Calder Race
Course
Most Effective Promotion: Family Days and Irish Fest
The Festival of the Sun is Calder’s premier event. It features $1.5 million in stakes
races including the finals of the Florida Stallion Stakes. The day showcases equine
related acts between each race, a live anthem singer, a Sports Village, a Horse Fair
Village, Chuckwagon Mack (who tells tales of the old west), a retired thoroughbred
ceremony, and a parade of breeds featuring over 30 different types of horses. The event
is successful because it combines great racing, entertainment, and events for those who
love horses. In order to ensure media support, a media party is given 3 days before the
event. A number of stations (including TVG) chose to broadcast live from the track.
The Junior Jockey Club started recently and has proven to be a tremendous success. By
the end of the meet, they were able to boast over 350 members. Members received (free)
monthly newsletters and participated in on-track events and Internet contests.
Family Days have expanded from 11 to 20 days a year. They include a petting zoo, pony
rides, a rock climbing wall, and other kids-themed activities. The event is free and
Calder offers a hot dog special for kids so parents spend little money on the event.
Irish Fest was held for the first time last year at Calder. The track teamed up with The
Irish Cultural Institute to put on a day filled with Irish performers, vendors, dancers, and
beer. Many people of Irish heritage attended which contributed to the festive
atmosphere. (There was no cost, but a charity donation was made to the institute for
coordinating the event.)
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Cost of Promotions:
The Marketing Department feels this is difficult to access. While dollar amounts were
available, they felt they would not be useful. An example would be the fact that the
market in Miami is high when it comes to advertising costs (when compared the rest of
the country). Also, promotions are usually funded from different accounts. The track
also utilizes the NTRA rebate program to recoup some of their costs advertising costs. In
addition, Florida tracks have a special fund set aside through the HBPA. This group is
called the South Florida Thoroughbred Marketing Corporation and it works with each
Florida track to determine promotions and events. Those specific events are funded at no
cost to the track.
Other considerations include the fact that some of the best promotions cost little or
nothing for the track. For example, the Irish Fest is set up through the Irish Cultural
Institute, which is a 501C charity. Funds are set up for the Irish Fest from a community
relations budget and not from the marketing budget. In addition, sponsors can help
recoup costs of an event. An example would be the Festival of the Sun Day which has a
Horse Fair Village featuring live demonstrations such as a blacksmithing and various
horse breeds. Coca-Cola sponsors this event every year.
Least Effective Promotion:
No promotions were deemed poor. However, there was one promotion the Marketing
Department felt needed some improvement. They are making efforts to enhance this
year’s Women’s Day. The promotion gives women free admission, $500 shopping
sprees, and allows for group parties of ten or more at discounted prices.
Schedule of Promotions
Junior Jockey Club Events:
June
Junior Jockey Club sign-ups during Family Days
July 4
Sunday
Calder Jockeys Meet Junior Jockeys with
autographs, Free photos of jockeys
Junior Jockey Club Goggles Giveaway to each
child
Aug 1
Sunday
Silks Photo Day where the kids dress up in silks
with photos taken
Derby Anniversary Matchbook Car Giveaway
the kids their own matchbook car featuring
the Kentucky Derby logo with a horse's head
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Sept 5
Sunday
Farrier Demonstration/Horseshoe Giveaway the
kids can watch a demonstration on how to
shoe a horse, why horses wear shoes and
they receive a free horseshoe
Derby Horse Beanie Baby Giveaway where the
kids receive a Derby beanie baby
Sept 6
Monday
America's Day at the Races with various events
and activities sponsored on Labor Day
Oct 3
Sunday
Discovery Paddock is a hands on exhibit to
introduce children to racing with activities
including riding training pony, wearing
jockey silks, pretending to shoe a horse,
weighing in on the scale, matching a horse's
name with parents' names, matching the
speed of athlete's to the proper sport,
identifying racetrack jobs, coloring in their
own racing silks, matching foal pictures
with champion racehorses, and putting
together a horse puzzle
Pokemon Trading Cards Giveaway to the first
500 kids Entering the park
Nov 13
Saturday
Internet Trivia Contest where kids get to see what
they have learned from the Club by trying to
answer trivia questions about horse racing
Calder Games Room Tokens Giveaways where
kids receive free game tokens to use in the
game room
Dec 5
Sunday
Horses Wear Things Too where kids can learn
about the gear that is necessary for riding
and training by handling the equipment
close up and personal
Florida's Thoroughbred Coloring Book
Giveaway
where the kids receive a coloring book
filled with horses and facts about them and
the thoroughbred industry in Florida
Monthly Newsletter - mailed to all Junior Jockey Club members, features upcoming
events, questions/answers section and coloring
Internet JJC - includes a schedule of events and a link to fun sites with horses as well
kids get
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to watch the site for trivia contest and e-mail their answers to Calder
Certificate of Participation - at the end of the meet all JJC members will get a certified
mailed home noting their membership for the meet
Family Day - featured the first Sunday of the month with rotating themes which
includes games, rides, a petting zoo, pony rides, a rock climbing wall and it is free
Family Fun Days:
Each Family Day - regardless of theme - will have pony rides, the petting zoo and a rock
climbing wall.
May 23
Sunday
Ocean World with Titanic Adventure slide, Willy
the Whale, dunk tank titled "Man Eating
Shark," Lobster Launch (flipping a lobster
into a pot) and a Spinning Fish Ride
June 6
Sunday
The Land Before Time Dino Bounce, T-Rex
Interactive walk-through dinosaur mascot
and a Hoola Hoop game
July 4
Sunday
Carnival Day Spinning Tops ride, Circus Bounce,
Mini Midway Games, tattoo booth, balloon
making clown, giant slide and cotton candy
Aug 1
Sunday
Jungleland Giant caterpillar crawl through, Flying
Bug Ride, Frog bog (flip a frog onto a lily
pad and Win a prize)
Sept 5
Sunday
Wild Wild West Western Bounce House, Laser
Ace Western Shootout, Kiddy train, Rodeo
roper (sit on a horse and try to rope a calf
that runs)
Oct 3
Sunday
Extreme Games Obstacle course, Gladiator pole
joust, inflatable hoops basketball and moon
bounce
Nov 13
Sunday
Island Family Day Pirate ship, Make your own
necklace, Hermit crab racing, Caribbean
Wheel of Fortune and a tropical balloon
making clown
Dec5
Sunday
Super Sports First Down interactive football game,
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Speed Pitch, Hole-in-one Putting Challenge
and Sports Wheel of Fortune
Jan 2
Sunday
Best of Family Days Titanic Adventure Slide, Dino
Bounce, Speed Pitch and Spin Art
Woman's Day 1999
July 10:
§ All women attend the races FREE!
§ Here the accomplishments of women in racing who compete equally with men
at the "Women in Racing" program.
§ Enter to win $500 shopping sprees!
§ Enjoy all filly and mare races.
§ Learn how to Handicap with the track's own race analyst.
§ Visit the Gift Shop which features the newly published book Great Women in
the Sport of Kings where America's top women jockeys tell their stories.
§
Bring a few friends or host a group of ten or more on this special day
which include a deluxe lunch, a race named in your honor, color photo taken
with a jockey, reserved seating near the finish line in the clubhouse, racing
programs, wagering guides, valet parking, garden paddock tours and a special
gift for each guest for only $12.95 per person.
Festival of the Sun Events:
Kids' Super Sports Village
Horse Village
-
Pony rides
Petting Zoo
Bouncehouse
Discovery Paddock
11:00-5:00 P.M.
Picnic Grove
- Papa John's Pizza Pop a Shot Basketball
- Rodeo Roper
- Speed Pitch Baseball
- Surge Entertainment Van
11:00-5:00 P.M.
Horses on Display
Gypsy Vanner
American Quarter Horse
Andalusian/Tennessee Walking Horse
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West End
-
Mini Horses
Pet a cuddly miniature horse
-
Equine Resource Fair
Herbs of the World
Veterinary Alternatives
Therapeutic Riding
The Healing Touch
Florida Racing
University of Miami Equestrian Team
Horse Protection Association of Florida
F.R.I.E.N.D.S.
-
Horse Tattoo Booth
Temporary Horse Tattoos
-
Chuckwagon Mack
Tells tales of Old West from a chuckwagon
-
Demonstrations
Blacksmith
Equine Therapist
Acupuncturist
Horse Dentistry
On-Track Demonstrations
-
Noon- 2:30 P.M.
Track
The National Anthem in the Winner's Circle
Andalusion Show featuring a troupe of Spanish dancing horses
Retired Thoroughbred Ceremony being recognized in the winner's circle
Parade of Breeds Attendance and Handle Charts
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Del Mar
Most Effective Promotion: 4 O’Clock Fridays
This promotion set on Fridays featured a later post time (4pm instead of 2pm) and a live
concert directly following the live racing. The later post time enabled them to offer their
product at a time when a younger audience could access it following work on Fridays.
The concerts created an atmosphere of higher energy due to the younger demographic
and significantly boosted attendance for the seven Fridays during the 1999 meet.
Cost of Promotion: $40,000
Least Effective Promotion:
While the Marketing Department improved many of the least effective promotions of
1998, they feel that all of their 1999 season promotions were effective and will be
repeating them in their upcoming 2000 season.
Schedule of Promotions
July 23
Friday
Four O'Clock Fridays
Concert after races
Camp Del Mar for kids 5-12
July 24
Saturday
Family Fun Day/Infield
Free Handicapping Seminar/Seaside Terrace
"Celebrate the Champions at Del Mar"-Gala
fundraiser for UC Davis Center for Equine
Health/After the races
Camp Del Mar for kids 5-12
July 25
Sunday
8:00am Turf to Surf 5K run
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Sports & Fitness Festival/Infield during races
Family Fun Day/Infield
Free Handicapping Seminar-12:30-1:15pm/Seaside
Terrace
Camp Del Mar for kids 5-12
July 30
Friday
Four O'Clock Friday
Concert after races
Camp Del Mar for kids 5-12
July 31
Saturday
Family Fun Day/Infield
Free Handicapping Seminar -12:30-1:15pm/Seaside
Terrace
Camp Del Mar for kids 5-12
Aug 1
Sunday
Hat Giveaway sponsored by Vinery.net Racing
Club (free DMTC Logo cap with paid
admission---while supplies last)
Family Fun Day/Infield
Free Handicapping Seminar -12:30-1:15pm/Seaside
Terrace
Camp Del Mar for kids 5-12
Aug 6
Friday
Four O'Clock Friday
Concert after races
Camp Del Mar for kids 5-12
Aug 7
Saturday
Family Fun Day/Infield
Free Handicapping Seminar -12:30-1:15pm/Seaside
Terrace
Camp Del Mar for kids 5-12
Aug 8
Sunday
Family Fun Day/Infield
Fiesta Del Mar, Latino entertainment all day/Infield
Free Handicapping Seminar -12:30-1:15pm/Seaside
Terrace
Handicapping Contest
Camp Del Mar for kids 5-12
Aug 13
Friday
Four O'Clock Friday
Concert after races
Camp Del Mar for kids 5-12
Aug 14
Saturday
Donuts Day-8:00-10:00am/Seaside Terrace,
sponsored in part by Vinery.net Racing Club
Family Fun Day/Infield
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Western Regional Chili Cookoff/Infield 12:005:00pm; Live music, free chili
Free Handicapping Seminar -12:30-1:15pm/Seaside
Terrace
Camp Del Mar for kids 5-12
Aug 15
Sunday
Family Fun Day/Infield
Free Handicapping Seminar -12:30-1:15pm/Seaside
Terrace
Camp Del Mar for kids 5-12
Aug 20
Friday
Four O'Clock Friday
Concert after races
Camp Del Mar for kids 5-12
Aug 21
Saturday
Tribute to Longden and Shoemaker
Leon Rasmussen Booksigning "Inbreeding
to Superior Female Families"Approximately 12:00-2:00pm in front of the
Racing Office (Clubhouse Entrance)
Family Fun Day/Infield
Horseplay’s Holiday Trip Giveaway
Free Handicapping Seminar -12:30-1:15pm/Seaside
Terrace
Camp Del Mar for kids 5-12
Aug 22
Sunday
Family Fun Day/Infield
Horseplay’s Holiday Trip Giveaway
Handicapping Contest
Free Handicapping Seminar -12:30-1:15pm/Seaside
Terrace
Camp Del Mar for kids 5-12
Aug 27
Friday
Four O'Clock Friday
Concert after races
Horseplay’s Holiday Trip Giveaway
Camp Del Mar for kids 5-12
Aug 28
Saturday
Boxing at the Beach-The card for the evening will
feature five bouts, each of which is
scheduled for four rounds
Donuts Day-8:00-10:00am/Seaside Terrace,
sponsored in part by Vinery.net Racing Club
Family Fun Day/Infield
Horseplayers Holiday Trip Giveaway
Free Handicapping Seminar -12:30-1:15pm/Seaside
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Terrace
Camp Del Mar for kids 5-12
Aug 29
Sunday
Pacific Classic T-shirt Giveaway-with paid
admission
Linda McCoy Murray Booksigning, of the late Jim
Murray's book, The Last of the BestApproximately 12:00-2:00pm adjacent to
the Best Pal Pub in paddock.
Family Fun Day/Infield
Free Handicapping Seminar -12:30-1:15pm/Seaside
Terrace
Camp Del Mar for kids 5-12
Sept 3
Friday
Four O'Clock Friday
Concert after races
Camp Del Mar for kids 5-12
Sept 4
Saturday
Jockey Photo Day-12:00-1:00pm/Grandstand Plaza
Family Fun Day/Infield
Free Handicapping Seminar -12:30-1:15pm/Seaside
Terrace
Camp Del Mar for kids 5-12
Sept 5
Sunday
Jockey Photo Day-12:00-1:00pm/Grandstand Plaza
Family Fun Day/Infield
Free Handicapping Seminar -12:30-1:15pm/Seaside
Terrace
Camp Del Mar for kids 5-12
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Delta Downs
Most Effect Promotion: Breeder's Cup Fanfest and "It's Going to be a Great Summer"
This year was the Breeder's Cup Fanfest inaugural year and it featured a live concert, a
gumbo cook-off, and simulcasting of the Breeder's Cup. While the event occurred during
down time at Delta Downs, it drew the largest crowd of the meet. The Marketing
Department plans to make this an annual event.
During the Quarter Horse meet, the track also featured an ad campaign saying "It's Going
to be a Great Summer." The theme had a Hawaiian/beach theme and the advertising ran
all summer long.
Cost of Promotion: $12,000
Least Effective Promotion:
The Marketing Department does not recall any of their promotions not working at least to
some extent.
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Promotions -- 2000
Apr 22
Saturday
John Alleman Memorial Stakes. Featuring Louisiana-breds
three and older, $12,000 purse.
Apr 23
Sunday
The Easter Bunny was everywhere at Delta Downs.
Approximately a hundred kids turned out for the track’s
second annual Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, April 23rd. There
were lots of colored eggs hidden in the spacious Delta
Downs grounds for the kids to uncover, plus a photo opp
with the Easter Bunny, himself or herself in this case as
Delta Down’s own Brenda Guidry of Transportation
donned the rabbit get-up. Keeping a hundred kids
entertained-and under control-was public relatoions’
Debbie Bishop.
Apr 24
Monday
Kori Rae Edison Golf Scramble Big Success! After a two week postponement of
the annual Delta Downs golf tournament-due to inclement weather-needless to say
everyone was itching to hit the ball! Forty-two players teed it up Monday, April 24 at
Pine Shadows Golf Course in Lake Charles, including jockeys Randy Edison and Tim
Town, trainers Connie Begnaud, Mike Lyles, and Mark Castille. Also in the field was
local police juror Sandy Treme of Dequincy who led off in the opening foursome. The
tournament was dedicated to help the medical fund for 4-month old Kori Rae Edison,
daughter of the aforementioned Randy, the jockey, and his wife Hope. Almost $1,000
was raised by event sponsors and participants.
Taking top honors with a blazing 7-under par 65 was the team captained by
Delta’s Chief of Security, Chad Bonneau. The long-hitting Bonneau’s teammates
included trainer Mark Castille, Michael Van Dyke, and Leonard Chellette. Bonneau was
edged on the long-drive hole by Jack Starkey of the track’s TV department. Winning
closest-to-the-hole honors on the pat threes were: Joey Rentz, a valet at the track, Steve
Terpovich, chartcaller for Equibase, plus David Smith and Tony Romero.
An additional golf tournament staged by Delta Downs will likely take place
toward the end of May to raise money for the Don MacBeth memorial Fund, one of the
major sponsors of the Edison tournament.
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Ellis Park
Most Effective Promotion: Toys For Tots
Every child (12 years old or younger) was given a free toy upon entering at the gate. The
Marketing Department feels this ‘pulls’kids and their parents to the track just as
McDonalds ‘pulls’children to their fast food stores with the use of Happy Meals.
Drawing children to the track lets their parents choose Ellis as their entertainment choice
of the day. It was apparent this promotion worked due to the increased attendance of
people between the parental ages of 23 through 38.
The second most popular promotion of the meet was the Internet area. Ellis Park
provided free Internet service with free hardware set up for anyone's use. The area was
used by children for entertainment and distraction, while adults used it as an
informational gathering facility. Ellis Park was able to get all the hardware and ISP at no
cost to the track.
Cost of Promotion: 1.5% of marketing budget (toys for tots) / 0% (Internet area)
Least Effective Promotion: Festival of the Bands
The track had local bands perform for race fans between races. A local radio station
sponsored the event. The Marketing Department felt like this was a good idea because it
had been successful in the past. However, the horseman, track personnel, and dedicated
horse racing fans fought the Marketing Department the whole time. While it did bring
new people to the track for a day of total entertainment, the Marketing Department felt
the effort exceeded any benefit.
Cost of Promotion: 0%
18
Schedule of Promotions
Daily Promotions:
Wednesday-Monday
Kids Toys
Each day kids 12 and under will be admitted free of charge and be given a free toy when
they enter. Everyday the toy distributed is different.
Treasure Chest
Each day, all Jr. Jockey Club members can enter to win a treasure chest full of prizes.
We will announce near the end of the day the winner. We put their member number on a
golden coin and submerge it in a treasure chest full of sand. We draw the winning
number from the sand. If a child is not a Jr. Jockey club member, they may become one
by signing up at the Marketing Information Table in front of the Winners Circle.
Internet Area
Three computer stations will be set up for Internet service. Any race fan wanting to use
the Internet area will be allowed. This is not for employee use. It will be located in the
Sky Theater entrance just off the grandstand.
Jockey Trading Cards
In the Winner’s Circle will be a container full of jockey trading cards. When the four
riders that have to weigh in following a race leave the Winner’s Circle they will take a
handful of cards with them. We will hand them out along the rail as they walk back to
the dressing room. We will autograph them if asked. The cards are a mix of different
jockeys.
Final Furlong Simulator
Located inside the same area as the Internet Area will be two Final Furlong
Simulators. Ellis Park will make them available to anyone wanting to ride. We will
receive the profit from the games. We could donate the funds to the Foundation.
NTRA Go Baby Go Display
This display is informational with an interactive screen about racing and Ellis Park. The
information located on the display is about Jockeys, Ellis Park, and racing. It stands
about 8 foot tall and spans about 15 feet. We will be able to put our brochure and other
pieces of information in the display. It is sharp in looks and will probably need to be
located inside the clubhouse.
19
Rally’s Race for Free Fries
Everyday radio station WKDQ will be asking for a specific caller to name the number
horse they think will win the 7th race. The caller will tell WKDQ and will win prizes
from Ellis Park, WKDQ and Rally’s. WKDQ will call us with the pick. Marketing will
select someone from the entry forms entered in our drawing drum to go to the Winner’s
Circle following the 5th race. We will take our wheel of fortune wheel to the Winner’s
Circle and the person will spin. The wheel has special slots on it such as, the number of
each horses in the race, a “no win” slot, the even numbered horses in the race, and a slot
for the odd numbered horses. If the horse that was selected wins, Ellis Park will give
everyone at Ellis Park a coupon for free fries from Rally’s. The coupons are distributed
following the last race by the admissions department personnel at all entrances.
Weekly Promotions:
Monday
Ladies Day
With the only exception of opening and closing days, each Monday, Ellis Park will thank
all ladies for attending by offering free admission. They will be offered daiquiris at a
discounted price and we have contacted ladies fashion stores to perform Still Fashion
Shows. Craft shows with Golden Harvest Arts & Crafts will be available on certain
ladies days.
Wednesday
For Men Only
Men like to be pampered also, so we’ve created a day for men only. Each Wednesday,
men can buy beer for a buck. Plus, with a paid $2.00 general admission ticket, he will
receive a $2.00 daily double ticket.
Thursday
Senior Citizens Day
Seniors fifty-five or above will be admitted free of charge and given a 10% discount
towards all purchases in the Ellis Park gift shop, and food and concession stands.
Everyday at Ellis Park seniors receive a 50% reduction in general admission.
Luke’s Likes
Two racing fans for seven of the days races will have the chance to agree or disagree with
track announcer Luke Kruytbosch. Luke will pick his choice to win the race. He will be
challenged by an Ellis Park director or group of employees from a department. The
racing fan can either agree with Luke or his challenger and Ellis Park will place a $25.00
bet on that horse. Or the racing fan can disagree with both and take $5.00 in cash for his
20
or herself. If the racing fan agrees with either Luke or his challenger, Ellis Park will
place a $25.00 win ticket on the horse Luke Likes or the choice of his challenger, the
racing fan will receive all moneys from the winning ticket.
Los Toribio Gift Certificate
Los Toribio restaurants in Henderson will honor a lunch or dinner gift certificate for four.
We will select the winner from entry forms placed in the program and dropped off in our
drawing drum.
Friday
$20,000 hole-in-one
Five racing fans will be able to tee it up in front of the Winner’s Circle and make a holein-one for all that cash. This is the fourth year for the popular event. The golfer may
bring his/her own club and tee to the green just to the south of the tote board. The one
closes to the pin wins a golden putter with Ellis Park engraved in the putter. It is
mounted on a display board so the winner may hang it up in his/her office or house. Each
participate wins certificates.
Saturday
Band
Each Saturday, local musicians play music as racing fans enter the gates for live racing at
11:30. Between races, the band will perform in front of the main grandstand. They
perform for three hours.
Radio Giveaways
Emerson Manufacturing has pledged five radios for us to give away each Saturday. This
is a no cost item. Emerson will also be handing out sample certificates for everyone that
enters Ellis Park.
Mascot
The Ellis Park mascot will perform for race fans.
Saturday Morning Trackside
Track announcer, public relations person and guest will handicap the races for that
Saturday, interview the guest and discuss issues concerning racing, Ellis Park and many
other topics. Breakfast is served free of charge. A tour of the barn area aboard our
antique firetruck is made available following the presentations and interviews.
21
Carriage Rides
Race fans will be able to sign up to take a carriage ride around the race track. After every
other race a group of four will be able to ride in a carriage around the levee of the track
and be told historical information about Ellis Park
Sunday
Free Admission with $.50 Hot Dogs and $.50 Soft Drinks
Each Sunday, all racing fans can enter Ellis Park at no charge for general admission. In
addition and even more popular, racing fans can purchase Hot Dogs and Soft Drinks for
fifty cents apiece.
Dixieland Band
Dixieland music returns each Sunday with the popular Doc Stocker Dixieland Band. The
band will perform just like the band on Sunday.
Mascot and Carriage Rides
Same as Saturday.
Additional Promotions:
Monday, June 28
Miss Ellis Park
Scholarship pageant sponsored by National City Bank. Winner represents Ellis Park for
an entire year.
T-Shirt Giveaway
Ellis Park will be giving away t-shirts to the first 2,500 race fans. The shirts will allow
fans to gain free admission any weekday of the live meet while wearing the t-shirt.
Saturday, July 3
Jockey’s Across America
Don McBeth Memorial Fund event where jockeys sign autographs and promote in their
respective communities.
1999 Festival of Bands
22
WKDQ & WKTG radio stations will be putting on a festival of music and giveaways.
Some country and some rock bands will be performing in the Grassy Knoll area of Ellis
Park.
Wilkerson Survey
Wilkerson & Associates from Louisville will survey race fans here at Ellis Park.
Sunday, July 4
1999 Festival of Bands
Monday, July 5
1999 Festival of Bands
Saturday, July 10
Vertical Wall
Ellis Park race fans will have an opportunity to climb a vertical rock wall. It will not cost
the climber anything.
NASCAR Promotional Giveaway
The first 250 children 12 and under with an adult paid admission to Ellis Park will
receive a replica NASCAR Mini car. One race fan will win tickets to the August 7th
Brickyard 400 in Indianapolis.
Sunday, July 11
Vertical Wall
Friday, July 16
Hopskinsville Tour
The Hopskinsville Recreation Class will be touring our facilities at 10:30 AM.
Wilkerson Survey
Saturday, July 17
Vertical Wall
First Annual Summer Cookout
The first annual summer cookout will feature The Tri-State Food Bank bringing an
assortment of entertainment to Ellis Park. Admission will be free with a donation of two
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non-perishable food items or a minimum of a $2.00 donation to the Tri-State Food Bank.
Roaming Magicians, clowns, and a restaurant or two for tasting will make our day
special. A cookie stacking and pie eating contests and so much more will be involved.
Meecham County Hams will bring out a 20 foot grill and sell pork chops, sandwiches,
pork burger sandwiches, and grilled country hams. A Palm tree pool full of sand with a
few golden trinkets in the sand for prizes, with sun tan and hot tub prizes, will be given
away.
Sunday, July 18
Vertical Wall
Mascot Race
The new Ellis Park mascot, other mascots from the area, and Churchill mascots, will be
invited to participate in a race. They will take off from the starting gate and dash 100
yards to the finish line. Marketing will provide a trophy to the winner.
Saturday, July 24
Town & Country Ford/WKDQ Day
Town & Country Ford and WKDQ will be given a Ford Truck Giveaway/Sponsor’s Day.
They will give a blanket away, present a trophy, and name a race after Town & Country.
We will put them up in the Sky Theater.
Wednesday, July 28
Jasper Engines NASCAR
NASCAR sponsored team Jasper Engines will bring their replica car here to be displayed.
An assistant of the team will be here answering questions, giving out memorabilia, and
promoting the team via our simulcasting system.
Saturday, July 31
End of the Millenium Golf
The first 250 race fans will receive a vinyl golf ball holder sleeve and have the chance to
win golf packages. A swing analyzer will be here for our golfing, horse racing fans.
WGBF will bring out their golf chippong game; provide prizes and more.
Sunday, August 1
Wilkerson Survey
End of the Millenium Golf Weekend Getaway
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Saturday, August 7
Vertical Wall
River City Rumble IV
Kickboxing matches in the evening under the Terrace Grandstand. Professional matches
sponsored by local businesses and promoted by a local promoter.
Junior Jockey Club Giveaway
The first 500 Junior Club members with the paid admission by the adult accompanying
them will receive an “insulated lunch sack.” WIKY’s new mascot “WIKY-ROO” will
make an appearance.
Sunday, August 8
Vertical Wall
Saturday, August 14
White County Day
Race fans from White County, Illinois have been invited to Ellis Park and given free
admission and parking. Vendors from White County will set up in the tunnel of our
grandstand. They will sell their products at no charge to them. White County businesses
will be solicited for prizes to be given away between races. White County community
leaders will be introduced between races and given a forum to present their community to
the simulcast sites and local fans at Ellis. A White County high school band will be
asked to perform the National Anthem and perform between races. The band will be
presented with a $500 donation between one of the races.
Wilkerson Survey
Hot Air Balloon Ride Giveaway
We will be giving everyone a chance to win a hot air balloon ride package. It will
include a weekend package in Louisville or Lexington and a ride in a hot air balloon.
Name the Mascot Winner Presentation
We will be giving the Bambino League Baseball Team that suggests the name of our
mascot, which has been selected by Ellis Park employees, a day at the races. Free
admission and parking to all players and coaches. We will name a race after the team.
We will give each player, their parents and the teams’coaches a coupon for two free hot
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dogs and two free soft drinks. We will have the team make a blanket presentation with
our mascot. We will take the team backside for a tour.
Saturday, August 21
1999 Organ Donorama/Mike Pegram Day
Racing fans visiting Ellis will be encouraged to sign the back of their drivers license as an
organ donor. Some local media celebrities will set at our designated tables to witness the
signings and sign their licenses. This will include Mike Pegram. Mike will also sign
autographs.
Saturday, August 28
Vertical Wall
Gardenia Stakes Balloon Race
15 hot air balloons to take off with passengers from the race crowd on an hour long race.
The winners receive prize money and amenities. Take off time will be during our live
races between races and will let down between races.
Gardenia Parachute Landing
Five parachutes will land at 12:15 on our track.
Gardenia Flowers
The first 100 ladies entering will receive a Gardenia to wear. We will mark two of the
Gardenias so both people will win a Gardenia bush each.
The Princeton High School Band
The band will march down our track playing their fight song before the first race. They
will then play the National Anthem. Following Bretts playing of My Old Kentucky
Home, the band will play Back Home in Indiana. They will perform between three or
four races. We will present them with a $500 donation.
Queen of Racing
WKTG will give one lucky winner of their on air promotion a complete new wardrobe
for the day, health and beauty treatment, limo service to Ellis, a dozen roses, box of
chocolates, $93 for spending, star treatment, and be accompanied be a guest to Ellis. We
will give her free general and Sky theater admission, a table for four in our Sky Theater
and give her party our lunch buffet, (drinks not included). We will name a race after her
and let her present a blanket, our treat.
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Truck Qualifying
45 people at Ellis will qualify to win our Town & Country Ford Truck which will be
given away September 6th.
Steeplechase Races
Two additional races have been added to Gardenia Day. The two are steeplechase races.
They will take place on the turf course.
Sunday, August 29
Vertical Wall
Friday, September 3
Triple Crown Ticket Giveaway
Listeners of WKTG will register at several Tri-State businesses, including Ellis Park, to
win a Triple Crown package. The package will include two tickets to each race including
air fare and hotel accommodations for two nights. Air fare to Baltimore and New York
only. The winning name will be drawn here at Ellis.
Saturday, September 4
Vertical Wall
Concert Tickets Giveaway
WABX radio station will place registration boxes throughout Ellis Park for 3-10 day
periods in July or August. Racing fans will register to win three pairs of tickets to three
different concerts, including the Summer Blues Jam featuring B. B. King, Kenny Wayne
Shepherd, and Tower of Power on September 4.
Sunday, September 5
Vertical Wall
Monday, September 6
Vertical Wall
America’s Day at the Races
Multitude of promotions on all at once. From Horseshoe coloring contests, to parading of
different breeds of horses and t-shirt throws. This is presented by the TRA and
sanctioned by the NTRA. Ellis Park will be one of the feature race tracks that day.
Ford Truck Giveaway
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Town & Country Ford has provided Ellis with a two year lease on a Ford Truck. Radio
station WKDQ will have qualified 54 listeners and Ellis Park will qualify 45 race fans on
Gardenia Day. Qualifiers will be given a chance to select an ignition key. If that key fits
the truck is the winning key. Only one key will start the truck. Obviously not everyone
will get the chance to try and start the truck. If someone does not get the opportunity,
they simply don’t win. Six Town & Country Ford representatives will be allowed access
to our Sky Theater for this day. Lunch will be provided to them by Ellis Park (drinks not
included).
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Emerald Downs
Most Effective Promotion: Father's Day
Every year at Father's Day, the track hosts a special day for dads. They attribute their
high attendance to three main factors. The first being they give away free caps to all race
fans entering the park. The second factor is the beginning of their Family Days, which
has special activities for all ages. The Marketing Department is also convinced that dads
like the track and it is where they want to spend their day. The promotion will be back
for the year 2000.
Cost of Promotion: $23,000 or 7.4% of budget
Least Effective Promotion: Hot Air Balloon Glow
The Marketing Department liked the idea to have the balloons glowing over the track at
night. Unfortunately, it was poorly executed by the track on all sides (for example some
of the balloons did not work, etc).
Cost of Promotions: $5,000
Schedule of Promotions
April 15
Saturday
Opening Day
April 16
Sunday
Direct Mail Promotion (Lucky Numbers)
April 30
Sunday
Umbrella Giveaway
May 6
Saturday
Kentucky Derby Broadcast
May 14
Sunday
Mother's Day
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May 20
Saturday
Preakness Stakes
June 3
Saturday
Belmont Stakes
June 18
Sunday
Father's Day and Budweiser Cap Giveaway
June 25
Sunday
Irish Day and Mike Pegram Autograph Day
July 3
Monday
Fireworks Spectacular
July 4
Tuesday
Independence Day
July 16
Sunday
Boeing Day
July 21
Friday
BFN #1
July 30
Sunday
Mt Rainier Breeder's Cup
Aug 4
Friday
BFN #2
Aug 6
Sunday
America's Day at the Races
Aug 11
Friday
BFN #3
Aug 12
Saturday
Hot Air Balloon Glow
Aug 13
Sunday
Mascot Day
Aug 18
Friday
BFN #4
Aug 19
Saturday
Lga Fan Festival
UNCF Walkathon
Aug 20
Sunday
Lga Mile
Sweepstakes
Fan Festival
Aug 25
Friday
BFN #6
Aug 27
Sunday
Weyerbaeuser Day
Sept 2
Saturday
US Bank Day
Sept 3
Sunday
Derby Day
Sept 4
Monday
Labor Day
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Sept 10
Sunday
Golfstein Futurity Fan Appreciation Day
Sept 11
Monday
Closing Day
31
Fair Meadows
at Tulsa
Most Effective Promotion: Coke Bottle Bonanza Night
The local television station, KJRH Channel 2, and Coca-Cola sponsored an event where
ten names were randomly drawn (names corresponded to a horse's number) in the
featured race. If their horse won, then that person had to select one Coca-Cola bottle out
of a hundred placed in the winner's circle. One bottle was worth $222,222. The person
selected to pick the bottle was guaranteed to win at least $2,222 and the other nine
contestants won $222.
Cost of Promotion: $7,400 (Insurance)
Least Effective Promotion: Mystery Mutuel Voucher
The Marketing Department mailed over 30,000 cards to Tulsans, which could be
exchanged for a voucher at the track valued between $2 and $5,000. The promotion
created little return, which they felt was due to the vouchers being mailed too early.
Cost of Promotion: $10,000
Schedule of Promotions
July 9
Friday
Ostrich Races
July 17
Saturday
Coke Bottle Bonanza Night in conjunction with
Coca Cola and Channel 2 television
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July 29July 31
Weekend
Dachshund Derby Day with trial held and then the finals
Every Thursday
Ladies Night with Special Prizes and Contests Held
Every Sunday
Family Nights with horse rides, games, food and
drink specials
Direct Mail Voucher with 30,000 vouchers mailed out to
Tulsans ranging from $2 to $5,000
33
Fonner Park
Most Effective Promotion: "Racing With the Rumbles"
The afternoon starts out with a great, classic car show courtesy of the Island Area
Cruisers and Vintage Classic Wheels. Then after the races the Rumbles (a popular
Midwestern band) play all the favorites from the 60s and 70s along with some of today's
top hits. For the 11th year in a row (and it continues to grow every year) this event has
taken place in conjunction with the local radio station, Power 99 Radio. It will be back
next year!
Cost of Promotion: $4,500
Least Effective Promotion: Pick Five and Win Contest
Patrons get the chance to pick the winners in the last five races of the day for the chance
to win $1,000. The Marketing Department felt that the promotion did not attract any new
patrons to the track. They also believe that it just does not appeal to the casual race goer
and they probably need to give away more money to make it a successful promotion.
Cost of Promotion: $2,000
Schedule of Promotions
Feb 12
Friday
Opening Day admission specials.
Feb 13
Saturday
Chili Cook-Off where you can sample some of the
best tasting chili around cooked up many
of the Grand Islands finest celebrity chefs.
Lend a helping hand to one of America's great
organizations the Red Cross will be on site.
Feb 14
Sunday
Valentine's Day. Register to win a diamond heart
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pendent valued at over $1,000 that will be
given away compliments of Diamond 1st
Jewelers.
Feb 20
Saturday
The Blackberry Winter band is back playing
Fonner Park on this night of the Bold
Accent Handicap for fillies and mares.
If you come to the races then your admission
is free for the concert. They're quickly
becoming one of tri-city areas finest musical
attractions playing your favorite
"brasskickin" sounds from great
groups as Blood Sweat & Tears, Chicago
and The Grassroots and others.
Feb 26-28
Fri-Sun
Ag Days '99. Fonner Park salutes central
Nebraska's heritage this week. Farm and
ranch families receive free admission and
there will be booths and displays all
weekend long. Register to win great prizes
all weekend long too!
Mar 13-14
Sat-Sun
Pick 5 and Win Contest. For the second straight
year, Fonner Park is giving you what you
want, CASH! There is a separate contest
each day and you have the chance to win
$1000 on either Saturday and Sunday and
all the cash goes! Be there for Fonner
Park's final five races each day and enter
the opportunity to win.
Mar 20-21
Sat-Sun
React Crafts Show. The regions best arts and crafts
show returns to the racecourse. You won't
find a better display anywhere as the entire
ground floor becomes a show place for
hand crafted items for show and sale.
Also watch the tracks top three year
old's compete in the 29th running of the
Baxter Stakes.
Mar 27
Saturday
The Rumbles are Coming! Sponsored by Power
99 Radio the Rumbles are back at Fonner
Park for their 11th year to play your
Favorite Rock & Roll sounds from the
60's and 70's along with all of today's
top hits. The afternoon begins with
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a great classic car show courtesy of
the Island Area Cruisers and Vintage
Classic Wheels. Then get ready for the
9th running of the Coca-Cola Sprint
Handicap brought to you by Coca-Cola
Bottling and Mid America Coca-Cola
Enterprises.
Apr 1-2
Thu-Fri
KSYZ Putt For Gold Contest. All you have to do
is make the qualifying putt (you receive
three ) on Thursday or Friday and you
come back on Saturday for your chance
to win $1000 in Gold.
Apr 3
Saturday
Runza Family Day. It's a Fonner favorite and
one for the entire family. Sponsored by
Runza Restaurants, come early and
enjoy a free mini-Runza, pop, an indoor
kid's carnival and the ever-popular KSYZ
Easter Egg Hunt that takes place in the
infield at Fonner Park.
Meet the Fonner Park jockeys and get their
autographs and if you stop at any of the
local Runza restaurants for admission
specials.
Apr 10-11
Sat-Sun
Corral West Country Days. To celebrate the wild,
wild west so put on that cowboy hat (it's
good for free admission pardner) so raceon
over Fonner Park for fun brought to you by
Corral West of grand Island and Wrangler.
Also, while supplies last, pick up free mens
or ladies 5 Star Fragrance from Rocky
Mountain and register to win comfortable
cowboy boots from Ariat. There will be
delicious barbecue followed by some
great music and dancing after the
featuring Karen Breiner and the
Midnight Express on Saturday.
Apr 17-18
Sat-Sun
KSYZ Spring Recreation Show. Come to
Fonner Park and find out what's new
boats, campers, jet skis, vans, spas,
motorcycles, 3-wheelers and many
more.
36
Apr 24
Saturday
$100,000 Bosselman/Gus Fonner Handicap. The
Bosselman Corporation and Fonner Park
proudly presents the 10th running of this
classic contest. You can pick up your
free pass to the Handicap at any area
Pump and Pantry. You can also win
Cash and prizes in the 9th annual KRGI
Ladies Spring Hat Contest.
May 1
Saturday
The Kentucky Derby. It's the 125th running of the
Kentucky Derby "live" from Churchill
Downs in Louisville. Watch and wager
on the greatest two minutes in sports and
get an official Kentucky Derby Souvenir
glass while supplies last.
May 2
Sunday
The Chevy Cavalier Sweepstakes. Someone
Will drive home in a new 1999 Chevy
Cavalier compliments of Hamilton
Chevrolet, KLRB Radio and Fonner
Park. This is your final chance to
Register to win.
The Tondi/Budweiser Handicap. Budweiser
and H & H Distributing once again are
set to showcase the top sprinters as they
compete for six furlongs for $25,000.
May 8
Saturday
Nebraska Derby. Catch the excitement of
Nebraska's own Derby Day with "live"
Dixieland Music and the $25,000 Nebraska
Derby, great food and a festive atmosphere
unmatched.
Featured for the first time at Fonner Park and hosted
by the Combined Health Agencies Drive of
Grand Island, this event provides a great
opportunity to increase your awarness
concernig numerous health issues. The
Health Fair will feature over twenty-five
agencies in attendance and provide blood
pressure, body fat, cholesterol screening,
diet, and recipe anaylisis. Many health
related service organizations will be
available throughout the afternoon to answer
questions and provide testing.
May 9
Sunday
Mothers Day & Free Umbrella Giveaway. Bring
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mom to the ponies and get something
special. Free umbrella while supplies last.
May 15
Saturday
The Preakness. Watch and wager on the Preakness
and the Islander Handicap. Free admission
to veterans.
May 16
Sunday
Coors Starter Handicap. Longest race of the season.
Fan Appreciation Day. Free admission.
38
Gulfstream
Park
Most Effective Promotion: Musical Concert Series
The concert series brought a different, nationally known act into town every Saturday and
Sunday afternoon during the meet. These concerts were on from 2:00 to 3:15 while live
racing was being conducted at the track. The Marketing Department feels this “new fan”
promotion introduced approximately 100,000 new fans to racing. A professionally
produced and scripted music video show takes place before each concert, teaching these
new players how to wager.
Cost of this Promotion: $400,000
Least Effective Promotion: N/A
39
Hollywood
Park
Most Effect Promotion: Backpack Giveaway
The most successful promotion for Hollywood Park was a backpack giveaway on
Memorial Day. This particular giveaway created a 46.2% increase in on-track attendance.
This promotion replaced the previous years sports cap giveaway and bested that
promotion by 20.6% handle. Since Hollywood Park was down overall in both on-track
attendance and handle for the entire 1999 Spring/Summer meet compared to 1998, these
were significant gains.
While backpacks do not seem exciting, they were a new giveaway in the Southern
California market with shirts, caps, clocks and umbrellas being the usual fare. The
promotion also featured high quality backpacks that looked attractive on TV
commercials, graphics and print ads. Since this promotion did well in May at the end of
the school year, the Marketing Director believes it will excel in August or September.
Cost of Promotion: $63,000
Least Effective Promotion: Beer and Wine Festival
They featured a sports cap giveaway and the Beer and Wine Festival on the same day.
The Beer and Wine Festival was held in a fenced off area near the paddock. For a ticket
price of $25 (with the proceeds going to charity), patrons could sample all of the wine,
beer and finger foods that they wanted from 15-20 small vendors.
The Marketing Director believes that it was the execution of the Beer and Wine Festival,
not the event itself that was ineffective. The advertising focused on the big race that day
as well as the cap giveaway, leaving little time to promote the Festival. The ticket price
of $25 may have also contributed tot he low turnout. If it was properly promoted and
built up as a special event, the Director believes it would be a nice promotion.
40
Cost of Promotion: <$2,000 (the event was inexpensive because many of the set up
items were donated, since the proceeds went to charity.
Schedule of Promotions
April 21April 22
WednesdayThursday
Special Simulcasting Racing from
Golden Gate, Aqueduct and
Others
April 23
Friday
Opening Night
May 1
Saturday
Kentucky Derby Day
Handicapping Challenge
May 15
Saturday
Preakness Stakes Day
May 31
Monday
Memorial Day
Back Pack Giveaway
Charles Whittingham Handicap honoring
One of racing's legendary trainers
June 5
Saturday
Belmont Stakes Day
June 13
Sunday
Guaranteed Pick Six
June 25
Friday
$1 Friday Night
June 27
Sunday
Hollywood Gold Cup
Hollywood Gold Cup Cap Giveaway
July2
Friday
$1 Friday Night
July 18
Sunday
Fan Appreciation Day with four stakes races
Featured
July 19
Monday
Closing Day
Nov 10
Wednesday
Opening Day
Nov 12
Friday
Opening Night featuring a Turf Club Party
for members and guests with live
music
41
Nov 19
Friday
Night Racing Returns!
Nov 25
Thursday
Thanksgiving Food Drive
Nov 26
Friday
Mystery Mutuel Voucher Promotion which was
mailed out to each person on the mailing
list from $2 to $10,000
Nov 27
Saturday
Hollywood Park/Daily Racing From Handicapping
Contest
$1 Million Guaranteed Pick 6
Nov 28
Sunday
Autumn Turf Festival
Dec 4
Saturday
Umbrella Giveaway featuring Hollywood Park
and NTRA's "Go Baby Go"
Dec 11
Saturday
Snow Day with 100 tons of snow dumped in the
North Park with free candy, coloring books
and an appearance by Santa Claus
Inglewood Day with free general admission for
Inglewood residence
Dec 12
Sunday
Thanksgiving Food Drive with Marine Corps
Toys for Tots
Dec 18
Saturday
Fan Appreciation Day with free general admission
Drawings for year 2000 Spring/Summer Clubhouse
Season passes and $100 wagering Spree
Dec 20
Monday
Closing Day
42
Hoosier
Park
Most Effective Promotion: Dan Patch Invitational Pace
Although Hoosier Park had record attendance for the Indiana Derby, their second most
highly attended date was for the Dan Patch Invitational Pace. Attendance exceeded
8,000. Success is attributed to marketing and Public Relations efforts prior to the event,
promotion of the giveaways, kid activities, and celebrity guest Kelly Packard.
Cost of Promotion: 15% of marketing budget (this does not include advertising costs)
Least Effective Promotion: Closing Weekend
Closing weekend was significantly down in both attendance and handle. Decreases are a
product of a cut back in advertising and a loss of fan awareness that they were still racing.
They had giveaways and charity events but they had a low turnout due to the lack of
advertising and awareness. This shows how important advertising is to a track.
Cost of Promotion: >1% of marketing budget
43
Schedule of Promotions
Harness Meet:
April 9-10
Opening Weekend Harness:
-T-shirt giveaway to the first 1,500 on the 9th
-Register to win on the 10th;SeaDoo courtesy of Lakeview Marina
-Pass giveaway to all patrons both nights (good for harness season)
-Musical entertainment both nights
-Kids entertainment (magician)
-50/50 raffle both nights
-Mike Kase on Saturday
-National Anthem singers
-Breakfast with Champions (Saturday morning)
-"Meet the Hoosier Park Horsemen"
April 16-18
Hoosier Horse Fair (external)
-Booth (shared with ITOB and ISA)
-Pass out brochures, admission passes
-Show videos and display pictures
-Announcements and banners (through sponsorship)
April 17
50/50 Raffle
Feb 20-May1 Road to the Kentucky Derby (handicapping contest)
-Five week contest prior to and including the Kentucky Derby
-Implement at HP and OTB's (grand prize winner and runner up at
each site)
-Contestants pick a horse in a specified race (points for win, place,
and show).
May 1
Kentucky Derby (simulcast)
-Register to win Kentucky Derby merchandise
-50/50 raffle (cash prize at 5pm, grand prize of 1/2 the pot at 9pm)
May 8
Breakfast with Champions
-"Investigate the Insides of Hoosier Park"
-50/50 Raffle
May 9
Mother's Day
-Carnations to the first 200 moms
-25% coupon to all ladies from Glitz Boutique
-Register to win $50 gift certificates to Glitz Boutique
44
May 15
Preakness (simulcast)
-Kentucky Derby poster giveaway
-Register to win Preakness merchandise
-50/50 raffle
May 17
Shania Twain Concert
May 21
Little 500 Night
-Anderson Speedway cars on display
-Giveaways (courtesy of Anderson Speedway and HP)
-50/50 raffle to benefit Alternatives Inc. & Bridges for Madison
County
-Scott Harrington: show car and autograph session
-Pep boys
-Little 500 Queens
-Miniature car giveaway
-WHBU Remote
-National Anthem singers
May 21
WNDE Remote in Indy
May 22
Wilkerson and Associates
May 29
50/50 Raffle
June 2
Fan Appreciation Night
-HoP, FW, MV
-$1 soda, popcorn. hot dogs
-free admission
June 4
Friday $1.50 Well Drinks
-Through Harness Meet
-Friday 2 for 1 entrees
June 5
Belmont (simulcast)
Family Night
-Register to win Belmont merchandise
-50/50 Raffle
-Unveil playground and mascot
-Giveaway goodie bags to all kids
-Register to win kid's prizes
-Kids games
-Kids activities
-Musical entertainment
-Trottingbred Pony races
-National Anthem singers
45
June 6
$5 Sunday Buffet
$0.25 Wings and Poppers
June 11
Vince Gill Concert
June 12
Breakfast with Champions
-"Investigate the backside of Hoosier Park"
June 18
2 for 1 Prime Rib Buffet
June 19
50/50 Raffle
June 20
Father's Day
-Register to win giveaways
-Guitarist
-WHBU Remote
-Wilkerson & Associates
-Indy, FW, HoP
June 24
Doo Dah Derby
-Celebrity races
-Guitarist
-Restaurant reserved for Wellness Community
-Mike Kase
June 27
Hollywood Gold Cup
-$0.25 wings and poppers
-Hat Giveaway (MV)
July 3
John Mellencamp Concert
Trottingbred Pony Races
BBQ Tent Opens
50/50 Raffle
July 4
Fourth of July Celebration
-Pass out Dan Patch passes
-Kids giveaway
-Face painting
-National Anthem singers
-Fireworks after races
-Build Your Own Nacho Bar
July 5
Van at Ft. Wayne Wizards
July 6
Van at Indians
46
July 7
Dan Patch Post Draw
-12 noon
-Lunch for press and horsemen
-Mike Kase
-Fan Appreciation Night
-$1 soda, popcorn, hot dogs
-Free Admission
July 10
Dan Patch Invitational Pace
-Breakfast with Champions "A Visit With the Dan Patch Horses"
-Tented areas with kids activities, entertainment stage and booths
-Hat giveaway/voucher/poster to first 4,000
-Celebrity appearance-Kelly Packard
-Dan Patch display
-Front entrance musical entertainment
-Additional food and beverage
-50/50 Raffle
July 13
Jimmy Buffet Concert
July 18
Breeder's Filly
-Ladies Night (free admission and giveaways to ladies)
July 23
2 for 1 Prime Rib Buffet
July 31
Hootie & the Blowfish Concert
Aug 9-14
Little League Harness Camp
Aug 14
Breakfast with Champions
"It's Gotta Be The Shoes"
50/50 Raffle
Aug 14-15
KY Standardbred Sales Company Races
-Passes to Hoosier Cup night given out
Aug 11-22
Indiana State Fair (external event)
-Booth with ISA
-Hoosier Park Day on 21st
-T-shirts, flyers, announcement, and banners on 21st
-Giveaways and announcements during harness racing at the ISF
Grandstand
-Pass out brochures and passes to Hoosier Cup and TB meet
Aug 21
Hoosier Cup
47
-Cup giveaway to first 2,000
-Fan appreciation night ($1 food specials)
-Face painters
-Musical entertainment
-Driver autograph session
-Passes for Thoroughbred season given out
-50/50 raffle
-National anthem singers
Sept 3
Willie Nelson/Dwight Yoakum Concert
Thoroughbred Meet
Sept 10-11
Opening Weekend Thoroughbred
-Handicapping contest (Saturday)
-Handicapping seminars (Saturday)
-Inside track book giveaway (Saturday)
-Register to win giveaways
-Newsletter (prior)
-Jockey trading card giveaways to kids on playground (Friday)
-Jockey autograph session (Friday)
-Hoosier park trivia
-Churchill Downs mini-Nascar giveaway (Saturday)
-Jockey T-shirt toss
-Mike Kase (Friday)
-National anthem singers
-Face Painters (Saturday)
-50/50 Raffle
-Breakfast with Champions (Saturday morning)
Sept 18…
Countdown to the Cup
-Seven week contest prior to Breeder's Cup
-Implement at HP and OTB's (grand prize winner and runners-up
at each site)
-Contestants pick a horse in a specified race (points for win, place,
and show)
-Indy
Sept 12-13
Quarter Horse Races
-Fast Cash Sunday
-$500 cash cube promotion
Sept 14
Moody Blues Concert
Sept 21
Two for Tuesday Promotion
-$2 cash voucher to first 200
48
Sept 22-23
Sept 25
Jockey Jams
50/50 Raffle
Sept 26
Quarter Horse Races
-Fast cash Sunday
-:60 second betting spree
Sept 29
Indiana Derby Post Draw
-12 noon
-Lunch for press and horsemen
-Mike Kase
Oct 1
Breeder's Cup Oaks/Derby Eve
-Jockey autograph session
-Passes to Indiana Derby given out
-Derby Eve gala in tent
-Mike Kase
-National Anthem singers
Oct 2
Indiana Derby
-Mystery voucher mailing
-Big Giveaway
-Strolling kids activities
-Celebrity appearances
-Musical Entertainment
-Additional food and beverage
-Jockey/trainer appearances
-Jockey/trainer/owner question and answer panel
-Mike Kase
-50/50 Raffle
Oct 8
Lee National Denim Day
Oct 10
Quarter Horse Races
-Fast Cash Sunday
-$500 cash cube promotion
Oct 19
Two for Tuesday Promotion
-200 $2 vouchers
Oct 24
Quarter Horse Races
-Fast Cash Sunday
-Show for Dough
Oct 28
Trick or Treat at the Track
49
-Decorations
-Candy giveaways
-Games/prizes
-Entertainment
-Door prizes
-Mike Case
Oct 30
Halloween
-50/50 Raffle
Nov 6
Breeder's Cup (simulcast)
-Register to win Breeder's Cup merchandise
-Banners/posters
-50/50 raffle
Nov 7
Quarter Horse Races
-Fast Cash Sunday
-$500 cash cube promotion
Nov 12
College Night
Nov 13
Breakfast with Champions
Nov 21
Quarter Horse Races
-Fast Cash Sunday
-:60 second betting spree
Nov 25
Thanksgiving
-11am post
-Buffet
Nov 27
50/50 Raffle
Nov 28
Quarter Horse Races
-Fast Cash Sunday
-$500 cash cube promotion
Dec 3-5
Closing Weekend
-Food specials
-Santa Claus, carolers
-Ornament giveaway to everyone
-Free admission with non-perishable food item
-Register to win giveaways
-50/50 raffles
-Mike Kase on Sunday
50
Louisiana
Downs
Most Effective Promotion: "Fridays in the Sky"
Marketed as an after work party, this promotion was held each Friday from 3-7 P.M. in
the Penthouse level Sky Room. For $5 admission, fans enjoy hot/cold hors d'ouvers,
drink specials, a DJ, and contest drawings. In addition to the non-racing festivities, the
track handicapper handicapped the days races and free mutuel tickets were provided.
This promotion seems to have caught on with people of all ages. The event is sponsored
by two radio stations who also provide live remotes. The Marketing Department feels
word of mouth has elevated this promotion due to the churn of satisfied patrons.
Cost of Promotion: $6,500 (newspaper ads) $20,000 (radio ads) $35,000 (food and
giveaways)
Lease Effective Promotion: "Family Day Saturdays"
Each Saturday families can purchase a discounted admission package. Included in the
package are 2-for-1 food coupons, programs, tip sheets, a clubhouse box that seats six,
and an entry to win a trophy presentation that day. The Marketing Department felt the
response was limited due to the comprehensiveness of the offer. They feel that future
family promotions need to be kept simple.
Costs of Promotion: $8,700 (newspaper ads)
51
Schedule of Promotions
June 25
Friday
Coupon booklet giveaway
July 5
Monday
Beach towel giveaway/activities for kids
July 17
Saturday
East Texas Day t-shirt giveaway
Aug. 14
Saturday
Pick the winning horses contest (handicapping
contest)
Sept. 6
Monday
Tote bag giveaway/activities for kids
Sept. 18Sept. 19
Saturday
Sunday
Louisiana Breeders’Festival of RacingStakes races for state breds, Cajun food and music
Sept. 25
Saturday
Wiener Dog Races/kids activites
Sept. 26
Sunday
Super Derby t-shirt giveaway
Oct. 2
Saturday
Super Derby day, cap giveaway, activities for kids
Oct. 3
Sunday
Mystery mutuel ticket redemption (mutuel tickets
were sent to people on our mailing list)
Oct. 23
Saturday
Chihuahua races/activities for kids
Nov. 6
Sunday
Breeder’s Cup Day/insulated mug giveaway
Nov. 14
Sunday
Closing Day
Thursdays Dollar Days
$1 admission, tip sheet, program, seat
Fridays Senior Citizens Day
Seniors 62+ and military with I.D. pay $.25
admission. Also Friday in the Sky after work
promotion on Fridays through September 3.
Saturday Family Day
Special discount package for families.
Sunday Ladies Day
Ladies enter through special gate for $1 admission
and coupon booklet.
52
Monmouth Park
Most Effective Promotion: Father's Day "Take Me out to the Game Ticket Giveaway"
For this promotion, all parents accompanied by a child were admitted into the Grandstand
free. Entry blanks were filled out upon entering the track and dropped into a box by the
fourth race. After the seventh race, sixty names were drawn for sixty pairs of tickets to
sporting events such as the Jets, Giants, Yankees, Mets, Devils, Nets, Phillies and
Trenton Thunder.
The Marketing Department felt this promotion worked well because it drew families out
to win something worthwhile. The event is five years old, but in 1999 attendance
increased tremendously. This could be due to the increasing costs of sporting event
tickets.
Cost of Promotion: N/A
Least Effective Promotion: Baseball and Sports Memorabilia Show
Monmouth Park had Gloria Rothstein Company present over 100 dealers displaying
baseball cards, souvenirs, and sports collectable items. The Marketing Department felt
there were several reasons for the low turnout. First, they picked a weekend that was one
of their lowest in attendance. This was not the right weekend to debut a new event.
Second, there was poor execution of the event by the organizers responsible. The track
advertised the show in all types of media and publications, but the organizers did not
supply the proper number of card dealers advertised. The Marketing Department also felt
that the organizers underestimated the venue and the profit possibility.
Cost of Promotion: N/A
53
Schedule of Promotions
May 29
Saturday
Opening Day: Free grandstand admission; half
price clubhouse admission; McDonald’s Family
Fun Day activities; The Mike Dalton Band.
May 30
Sunday
McDonald’s Family Fun Days: Every Sunday, 12-4.
Free pony rides, clowns, face painters, music,
petting zoo and more. Courtesy of McDonald’s.
Cats on a Smooth Surface band.
May 31
Monday
Free Miller Lite Month of June Grandstand Pass,
the Great Minolta Binoculars Drawing: A $50
value. Drawings every five minutes from 1:05 to
5:00 PM. Tim McLoone and the Atlantic Coast
Band.
June 6
Sunday
Golfer’s Appreciation Day: Bring a tee, grandstand
admission is free. Win a pair of VIP tickets to the
Buick Classic at Westchester Country Club. Golf
equipment demonstrations from Mizuno, Taylor
Made, Odyssey, Callaway, MacGregor, Cobra,
Wilson, Maxfli, Adams, Yonex, Florsheim, Square
2 and professional instruction from the teaching
pros at Legends Golf Center.
June 12
Saturday
2nd Great Minolta Binoculars Drawing.
June 20
Sunday
Father’s Day-‘Take Dad to the Game’Ticket. Win
tickets to see the Yankees, Mets, Devils, Jets,
Giants, and more… All dads and moms
accompanied by a child admitted free to the
grandstand. Free pony rides, clowns, face painters,
music, petting zoo and more.
June 26June 27
Saturday
Baseball Card and Sports Memorabilia Show.
Saturday and Sunday, the Gloria Rothstein Co.
presents over 100 dealers displaying baseball
cards, souvenirs, and sports collectible items plus
autograph session on Sunday from 12-3:00 PM.
June 27
Sunday
Ladies’Day at the Races. Luncheon and harve’
benard Fashion Show in the Turf Club with door
54
prizes. Call 732-571-5547 for ticket info. And it’s
Ladies’Hat Day. All women wearing a hat
admitted free. Tim McLoone and the Atlantic
Coast Band.
July 3
Saturday
Miller Lite/Monmouth Park Beach Party. Chill out
with the Monmouth Park Cooler Bag Giveaway!
Free ‘Miller Lite Month of July’Grandstand Pass,
volleyball serve contest, games and The Mike
Dalton Band.
July 4
Sunday
Iselin Day. Watch the top older horses compete in
the Phillip H. Iselin Handicap televised on the
NTRA Champions on Fox Series. Music by the
Holiday Express Americana Review.
July 5
Monday
3rd Great Minolta Binoculars Drawing. Cats on a
Smooth Surface Band.
July 11
Sunday
Summer X-Games Demonstration. Presented by
WJLK ‘The Point.’ Professional Inline Skaters and
Freestyle Bicyclists demonstrate their high-flying,
energetic skills on a 40-foot inverted skating ramp!
Shows from 12-3:30 PM. Drawings for inline
skates.
July 18
Sunday
10th Annual St. Patrick’s Day in July. Win a trip for
two to Ireland, courtesy of Murphy’s Irish Stout.
“Wearin’O’The Green” for free grandstand
admission; the Friendly sons of the Shillelagh Pipe
& Drum Band, the Greg Ryan Trio performing ‘On
the Green’and the Jersey Shore’s own Joe Finn.
July 25
Sunday
Classic Car Show. Over 100 cars from days gone
by. Meet Big Joe Henry at the live remote
broadcast of his NJ 101.5’s Oldies Show.
July 26
Monday
The Haskell/Holiday Inn Golf Outing. Shore Oaks
Country Club, Farmington, NJ.
July 30
Friday
July 31
Saturday
13th Annual Haskell Road Race. Four mile race,
one mile race & kiddie sprints; Grand Prize
drawing-roundtrip Continental Airlines tickets for
two.
‘Around The World’ Wine Tasting & Luncheon.
Plus the Grade I United Nations Handicap. Held in
55
the Turf Club-Door prizes, gift bag: $50 per ticket.
Aug. 1
Sunday
Free ‘Miller Lite Month of August’Grandstand
Pass.
Aug. 7
Saturday
5th Annual Murphy’s Irish Stout Cigar Luncheon.
Clubhouse Pavilion-Door prizes and gift bag; $100
per ticket.
Aug. 8
Sunday
The $1,000,000 Haskell Invitational. The
centerpiece of the summer schedule, top 3-year-olds
compete for the richest invitational prize in the
nation; Haskell cap giveaway and the Mike Dalton
Band. Gates open 10:30 AM; First Race 12:30 PM.
Aug. 15
Sunday
Meet the Metrostars. Soccer skills demonstration
by team members, autographs, drawings for game
tickets and more.
Sept. 5
Sunday
Fan Appreciation Day-Closing Day. Free
Grandstand admission, half price clubhouse
admission. McDonald’s Family Fun Day
Activities.
56
Remington
Park
Most Effective Promotion: Derby Clock Giveaway
The most successful promotion for this track was a Derby Clock Giveaway on
Remington Park Derby Day. This promotion was a huge success due to the fact that
there was a huge stakes race that contained quality horses. The mixture between good,
quality horses and the Derby Clock boosted the track attendance beyond their
expectations.
Cost of Promotion: $23,000
Least Effective Promotion: Jockey Play and Win Card
For this promotion during the Quarter Horse meet, the patrons were given a card
featuring jockeys. The patrons had to keep track of the jockeys, their mounts, and their
winnings on these cards from week to week. The contest then graduated to levels with
weekly prizes. It was a good concept but required too much information for the patrons
to comprehend.
Cost of Promotion: There is no exact numbers due to printing the cards in-house.
57
Schedule of Promotions
June 10
Wednesday
Gym Bags Giveaway
Aug. 5
Thursday
T-Shirt Giveaway
Aug. 27
Friday
Ball Cap Giveaway
Nov. 26
Friday
Christmas Ornament Giveaway
58
River Downs
Most Effective Promotion: Motorcycle Giveaway
There was a huge turn-out of new fans for the Harley Davidson motorcycle giveaway.
The Director of Marketing felt this promotion was unique due to the turn-out of new
faces.
Another big day for them was America's Day at the Races, which resulted in a turn-out of
younger fans. The Marketing Department felt that this event not only brings in a younger
crowd, but educates them on the sport, as well as entertains them.
The Classic Car Show was deemed successful and cost nothing!
Cost of Promotion: $15,000 (for Harley Davidson) $6,000 (America's Day at the Races)
Least Effective Promotion: Celebrity Hole-In-One Contest
The promotion featured celebrities putting for $1 million (we assume for charity). The
Marketing Department felt the celebrities were not big enough to draw people to the track
specifically for the event. They did feel this would be a great promotion if the fans were
able to putt themselves.
Cost of Promotion: $6000-$8000
59
Sam Houston
Race Park
Most Effective Promotions: Fireworks Show, Good Neighbor, and Concerts
For the Fourth of July there was a fireworks show which brought in over 22,000 people.
The Good Neighbor idea was a direct mail promotion focusing on the area directly
surrounding Sam Houston. It was intended to bring new patrons to the track. The
concerts bring in a much younger demographic. Concerts are also useful in marketing
the venue as an entertainment place.
Costs of Promotions: $40,000 (fireworks) $20,000 (Good Neighbor) $10,000 - 30,000
(Concerts)
Least Effective Promotion:
Sam Houston did quite a bit of experimenting and cannot identify one event as
“unsuccessful.” They have tried different types of events and have a good understanding
of what does and does not work in their particular market. One main strategy is to test a
promotion before it is introduced.
Cost of Promotion: N/A
60
Schedule of Promotions
Jan 1
Friday
KILT Night
Jan 2
Saturday
Calendar Giveaway
Jan 8
Friday
KILT Night
Jan 9
Saturday
Sunrise at Sam Houston
Jan 15
Friday
KILT Night
Jan 16
Saturday
Lucky Sevens Handicapping Contest
Tomball Good Neighbor Night
Jan 22
Friday
KILT Night-HLS&R Ticket Giveaway
Jan 23
Saturday
Lucky Sevens Handicapping Contest
Dollar Night
Jan 29
Friday
KILT Night-HLS&R Ticket Giveaway
Jan 30
Saturday
Lucky Sevens Handicapping Contest
Feb 5
Friday
KILT Night-HLS&R Ticket Giveaway
Feb 6
Saturday
Lucky Sevens Handicapping Contest
Pepsi Long Sleeve T-shirt Giveaway Night
Feb 12
Friday
KILT Night-HLS&R Ticket Giveaway
Feb 13
Saturday
Sunrise at Sam Houston
Lucky Sevens Handicapping Contest
Jersey Village Good Neighbor Night
Feb 19
Friday
KILT Night-HLS&R Ticket Giveaway
Feb 20
Saturday
Lucky Sevens Handicapping Contest
Feb 26
Friday
KILT Night-HLS&R Ticket Giveaway
Feb 27
Saturday
Lucky Sevens Handicapping Contest
Mar 5
Friday
KILT Night
61
Mar 6
Saturday
Connally Breeders Cup Turf Races/IKON Picnic
Mar 12
Friday
KILT Night
Mar 13
Saturday
Sunrise at Sam Houston
Mar 19
Friday
KILT Night
Mar 20
Saturday
HLS&R Rodeo Round-up Night (Bounce-back
from HLS&R)
Mar 26
Friday
KILT Night
VIP Club Reception
Dollar Night
Mar 27
Saturday
Gallery Furniture.com Stakes-Turfway Park
Secretariat Poster Giveaway-Owner's Seminar
Apr 2
Friday
KILT Night
Apr 9
Friday
KILT Night
Apr 10
Saturday
Sunrise at Sam Houston
Jimmy G's Crawfish Celebration
Fan Appreciation Weekend
Apr 11
Sunday
Fan Appreciation Weekend
Oct 28
Friday
KILT Concert-Joe Diffie
Oct 29
Saturday
Breakfast with Bob
Jiffy Lube Opening Night Celebration
Arnold Palmer Commemorative Golf Tractor (first
3,000)
Good Neighbor Celebration-Golfers List
Nov 5
Friday
KILT Concert-The Wilkinsons
Breeder's Cup Handicapping Preview
Nov 6
Saturday
Breeder's Cup from Gulfstream Park
Cy-Fair Chamber of Commerce TriFesta
(Heart Walk, Health Fair & Taste Fest)-Paddock
Daily Racing Form National Handicapping
Championship-NTRA Handicapper of the Year
62
Nov 12
Friday
KILT Concert-Pat Green
Nov 13
Saturday
Sunrise at Sam Houston
Good Neighbor Night
Nov 14
Sunday
Hurray for Hollywood Dog Show
Nov 19
Friday
KILT Concert-Ricochet
Nov 20
Saturday
Good Neighbor Night
Nov 26
Friday
KILT Concert-TBD
Employee Friends and Family Night
Dec 3
Friday
KILT Concert-Dan Seals
Dec 4
Saturday
Good Neighbor Night
Dec 10
Friday
Texas Champions Weekend
Galleryfurniture.com Texas Champions Day
KILT Night at the Races (NO CONCERT)
Dec 11
Saturday
Texas Champions Weekend
Sunrise at Sam Houston
Louisiana Champions Day-Cross Promote at SHRP
KILT Concert-TBD
Dec 17
Friday
KILT Concert-Earl Thomas Conley
Dec 18
Saturday
Fred Stone Calendar Giveaway-first 4,000 fans
63
Santa Anita
Most Effective Promotion: Opening Day/Calendar Giveaway
Santa Anita drew over 44,000 fans on this day. They inherited a great tradition with this
event, which also draws a large amount of awareness to their winter meet. The
Marketing Department feels that in their competitive market, getting early momentum is
vital. Unfortunately, with the amount of bad weather they have experienced during the
meet, they have not been able to sustain their early success.
Cost of Promotion: 10% of total marketing budget.
Most Successful Promotion 2000:
On April 8th Santa Anita hosted the annual Santa Anita Derby which is one of the biggest
prep races for this year's Kentucky Derby. It also turned out to be one of the biggest days
in the history of Santa Anita. The total handle for the day ($25,782,789.40) established
an all-time total handle record. Also up was attendance (41,222). Included in the
promotional highlights for the day was a collector's T-shirt giveaway and a $1 million
Guaranteed Pick Six Pool.
Least Effective Promotion: N/A
64
Wyoming Downs
Most Effective Promotion: Sponsorship of Rodeo Events
Wyoming Downs sponsored several different rodeos in the Salt Lake City area. Included
in the sponsorship was an information booth where employees could pass out track
information. Attendees of the rodeos could use their ticket stubs for free admission to the
Downs.
Cost of Promotion: $2000 (rodeo sponsorships)
Least Effective Promotions: $1000 Cash / Horse Giveaway for Closing Day
Wyoming Downs offered a $1000 cash giveaway as well as a horse to boost their Closing
Day attendance. The patrons had to fill out a questionnaire and be present to win on
Closing Day. The questionnaire could be filled out on several promotional days which
were previously advertised. Neither the money nor the horse were given away because
the names drawn were not present. The Marketing Department felt that the chance to win
did not effect Closing Day attendance.
Cost of Promotion: Would have cost $2000 plus the cost of printing surveys.
65
Schedule of Promotions
Schedule of Promotions
June 12
Saturday
Sweepstakes Kick-off
Direct Mail Premium Offer
Consumer Survey:
(Bounce-back coupon incentive).
June 13
Sunday
Sweepstakes Registration
Consumer Survey
(Bounce-back coupon incentive).
June 19
Saturday
Father's Day Pre-promo.
June 20
Sunday
Father's Day Free Admission.
June 26
Saturday
Promotional Premium Giveaway.
June 27
Sunday
Sweepstakes Registration
Consumer Survey:
(Bounce-back coupon incentive).
July 3
Saturday
Promotional Premium Giveaway.
July 4
Sunday
Salute to Armed Forces-free admission to all
military personnel with I.D.
July 10
Saturday
Promotional Premium Giveaway,
"Picnic in the Park at the Downs",
Sweepstake Registration
Consumer Survey
(Bounce-back coupon incentives).
July 17
Saturday
Free admission with rodeo ticket stub.
July 18
Sunday
Sweepstake Registration
Consumer Survey
(Bounce-back coupon incentives).
July 24
Saturday
Promotional Premium Giveaway.
July 31
Saturday
Fan Appreciation Kick-off, Free admission for
Evanston Locals.
66
Aug 1
Sunday
Promotional Premium Giveaway Sweepstakes
Registration (bounce back coupon incentive).
Aug 7
Saturday
2 for 1 admission with coupon.
Aug 8
Sunday
2 for 1 admission with coupon.
Aug 14
Saturday
Promotional Premium Giveaway, Law Enforcement
Day-free admission to law enforcement with I.D.
Aug 15
Sunday
Bounce-back Coupon Offer.
Aug 21
Saturday
2 for 1 admission with coupon.
Aug 22
Sunday
2 for 1 admission with coupon.
Aug 28
Saturday
Bounce-back coupon offer.
Aug 29
Sunday
Promotional Premium Giveaway.
Sept 4
Saturday
Promotional Premium Giveaway Sweepstakes
Registration. Discount offer on 2000 Season Pass
Consumer Survey: (Bounce-back coupon
incentive).
67
Appendix
The following appendix contains the
promotional schedules of tracks that
chose to remain anonymous.
68
Track A
Schedule of Promotions
Jan 20
Thursday
Opening Day
Jan 20Jan 23
Weekend
Handicapper's Challenge
Jan 29
Saturday
Russell Baze Poster Giveaway
Jan 30
Sunday
Super Bowl Sunday with special food
and drink specials
Feb 12
Saturday
Briefcase Giveaway
Feb 13
Sunday
Chinese New Year Celebration
Feb 20
Sunday
Handicapper's Challenge Round 2
Feb 26
Saturday
Radio Headphones Giveaway
March 11
Saturday
Major Stakes Race
T-shirt Giveaway
March 12
Sunday
Comedy Day
March 19
Sunday
Handicapper's Challenge Final Round
March 29
Saturday
Pokemon Family Day
March 26
Sunday
Closing Day
Grab Bag Giveaway
Every Thursday
Senior Thursday's
Every Friday
Live Bands with free admission
69
Track B
Schedule of Promotions
May 15
Saturday
"Track" Cap Giveaway
Preakness Simulcasting
May 28May 31
Weekend
"Track" Festival Mini Fair in the backyard
May 29
Saturday
World of Horses
May 30
Sunday
Floral Park 5k run
Mascot Derby
May 31
Monday
T-shirt Giveaway
Country Day (live music and remote)
June 1June 5
Week
Budweiser Clydesdales
June 1
Tuesday
Golf Tournament at Piping Rock CC
Jockeys Vs. Broadway Stars in Central Park
June 2
Wednesday
Major Stakes Post Position Draw
June 3
Thursday
Jockeys visit Ronald McDonald House
June 4
Friday
Breakfast at "Track" (field trip for over 400 area
elementary school kids)
Woody Stephens Poster Giveaway
Special Olympics Luncheon and Demonstration
"Track" Participant Party
June 5
Saturday
Major Stakes Race Day
Radio Station Remote
June 11July 23
Fridays
Sunset Racing
June 20
Sunday
Father's Day
Mystery Voucher
July 5
Monday
Travel Mug Giveaway
70
July 25
Sunday
Closing Day
Fan Appreciation
Sept 10
Friday
Opening Day
Travel Mug Giveaway
Sept 11
Saturday
Mystery Mutual Voucher
Sept 18
Saturday
T-shirt Giveaway
Oct 2Oct 3
SaturdaySunday
Oktoberfest
Oct 10
Sunday
Stein Giveaway
Oct 23
Saturday
Sports Bag Giveaway
Every Sunday
Family Fun Days in the Backyard
Holidays
Breakfast at "Track"
Ambient Performers and International Artists in the
backyard
71
Track C
Schedule of Promotions
April 24April 29
Weekend/
Week
Dawn at the Downs with a breakfast
buffet at trackside while morning
workouts are going on
April 25
Sunday
Glass Giveaway
April 29
Thursday
Jockey Autograph Session with local and
national jockeys
Triple Crown Steeplechase Race
Festival in the Field with a special concert,
interactive game show and activities
May 1
Saturday
Major Stakes Race
Collectors pins given away, historical tours,
"track" photo spots and special ceremonies
May 9
Sunday
T-shirt giveaway with the t-shirts good for free
admission the rest of the meet
May 15
Saturday
Free poster giveaway
Raffle for Porsche as a fund raiser
May 20
Thursday
Partner with Elderserve to host Seniors health
fair on-track
May 21May 22
Weekend
Classic Car Show in the infield with some select
cars in clubhouse to attract attention to the
Event
Wagering seminar
May 23
Sunday
Junior Jockey Club Giveaway for all children
under 12
May 29
jockeys
Saturday
Backstretch breakfast and tour with trainers and
will be on hand to interact with the public
72
May 29May 31
Weekend
Organ "Donorama" where track fans are
encouraged to become an organ donors
May 31
Monday
Fiji Camera Giveaway
June 5
Saturday
Belmont Stakes with direct mail promotion offering
A coupon for Triple Crown Merchandise
June 5June 6
Weekend
Arts and Crafts Exhibitors, foods,
regional music and equine
Exhibits
June 12
Saturday
Alumni Day
June 19
Saturday
Backstretch Breakfast and Tour
June 20
Sunday
"Clubs For Kids" Day with free gulf clubs
for the first 1,000 kids
June 27
Sunday
Customer Appreciation Day
Every Wednesday
Handicapping Contests
Every Sunday
Sunday Brunch for Families
Month of April
Handicapping 101 Lectures to teach
handicapping
73
Track D
Schedule of Promotions
Harness Meet:
Surf and Turf Promotion-Free T-Shirts to the first 2000.
Paid admission, Skydiving Exhibition, Free Hot Dogs to all kids twelve and under. Win
a trip to the Bahamas for 2 including airfare and a chance to win a 1999 Chevrolet
Silverado from Chevy dealer. All patrons receive a free entry form to win a trip to the
Bahamas, one winner drawn. Also 10 names drawn for a chance to win the truck, those
finalists returning on closing day (Aug. 4) get a chance to select one of 48 keys to the
truck, only one of which starts it.
Special July 4th, Miller Lite 3-D Fireworks Show-Gates open at 12:00pm, post time
6:00. Fireworks immediately following the races at 9:30pm, the first 1,000 patrons
receive 3-D fireworks glasses and a free General Admission Pass for July 5th.
Every Monday-Win a trip for two to the Princess Resort and Casino at the Grand
Bahama Island including airfare and a chance to win a 1999 Chevrolet
Silverado Pickup from local Chevy dealer. One finalist drawn to win
the truck, that person goes to the Bahamas.
Every Tuesday-All Press Pass Holders receive a $5 dollar value pack, Admission, Hot
Dog, Soft Drink, Program, and Tip Sheet. All patrons receive an entry
form to win the truck, one finalist drawn.
Every Wednesday-Over 55 and fabulous, 1/2 price general admission with ID. All
patrons receive entry form to win the truck, one finalist drawn.
Closing Day-All finalists for the truck giveaway invited back to the races, 10 more
names will be drawn, winner is finalist whose key starts the truck.
Thoroughbred Meet:
Opening Day-Free Track T-shirts to the first 5,000 paid admissions, Pony Rides, Face
Painting, and a Moonwalk for the Kids. See the York River Concert Band
perform on the apron between races and a Skydiving Exhibition prior to
the first race.
Fridays, Cheap Date Friday-All patrons may purchase a $8 value pack for $5 which
74
included Admission, Program, Tip Sheet, Hot Dog and
Pepsi. All patrons may enter to win $1,000 cash to be
given away every Saturday 9/11-9/25 as part of a season
long Winners Circle Promotion (Must be present on
Saturday to win).
Saturdays, Winners Circle Day-All patrons with paid admission enter to win $1,000
cash through September. Two names will be drawn after the sixth race from
entries received that week. The first person drawn will be given the choice of
taking $1,000 or advancing to the Derby Day $20,000 drawing, the second person
will have the alternate choice (must be present to win).
Saturday Sept. 18-Andy Guest Open Paddock Dedication.
Saturday Sept. 25-Be the first to see the return of Grammy Award winning
Country Music Sensations "Shenadoah" live on The Green immediately
following the races.
Saturday Oct. 2, "State" Derby Day-See the Mid Atlantic's top Thoroughbreds
compete for $200,000 in the second running of the "State" Derby. Also
make it to the Winner's Circle yourself, three winners from 9/11, 9/18, and
9/25 along with 20 additional patrons selected from Derby Day entries
will draw keys to open a briefcase stuffed with $20,000 Cash. A second
drawing will then be held from the 23 finalists and a $5,000 Donation will
be made to the Charity of their choice.
Saturday Oct. 9, Mystery Voucher Saturday-All patrons on our mailing list
receive a "Guaranteed Winning Ticket"; Grand Prize Winning Ticket is
worth $10,000 in Free Wagering (deadline to get on mailing list is
Opening Day).
Sundays, Pepsi Family Day-Free hot Dog and Pepsi to all kids twelve and under, Pony
Rides, Face Painting, Moonwalk and more. Enjoy the York River Concert Band
performing on the apron between the races. Kids twelve and under always
receive Free Admission. Also, all patrons may enter to win $1,000 cash to be
given away every Saturday 9/11-9/25 as part of a season long Winners Circle
Promotion (must be present on Saturday to win).
Mondays, High Roller Monday-One lucky patron (and their guest) becomes a High
Roller at the track. Win Free Admission to the Jockey Club, complimentary
buffet, and a free $100 betting voucher (Winner drawn after race 2). Also all
patrons may enter to win $1,000 cash to be given away every Saturday 9/11-9/25
as part of a season long Winners Circle Promotion (must be present Saturday to
win).
Tuesday, Senior Day-All patrons 55 and older receive half priced general admission and
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the first 200 will receive a free Totebag. Also patrons may enter to win $1,000
cash to be given away every Saturday 9/11-9/25 as part of a meet long Winners
Circle Promotion (must be present Saturday to win).
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Track E
Schedule of Promotions
1999 Spring Promotions:
Opening Weekend T-shirt Giveaway
Major Stakes Races
Memorial Day Cooler Jug Giveaway
1999 Fall/Winter Promotions:
Opening Weekend Sports Bag Giveaway
Day After Thanksgiving Bucket Hat
New Year's Day 2000 Fred Stone Calendar Giveaway
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Track F
Schedule of Promotions
1999 Promotions:
Win Ben Stein's Tickets to the Big Game Super Bowl
Jazz Concert ~ Chuck Mangione
Winter Festival
St. Patrick's Day Party
Sunday Family Fun Days (4)
Kentucky Derby Simulcast / Happy Hour
McDonald's Memorial Day Country Festival
Open House (2)
June Friday Night Happy Hour
$500,000 Feature Race
Hall of Fame Night
Budweiser Concert Series (Rock & Roll, Oldies, R&B, Latin & Light Rock)
$1,000,000 Feature Races Night (T-Shirt Giveaway)
$1,000,000 Feature Breeders Day ($25,000 Tote Ticket Giveaway and Concert)
$1,000,000 Feature Race (Baseball Hat Giveaway)
America's Day at the Races ~ Labor Day
$500,000 Feature Handicap
Fiesta Italiana
Oktoberfest
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$500,000 Feature Cup (Latte Mug Giveaway)
Halloween Bash
Breeders' Cup Simulcast
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Track G
Schedule of Promotions
April 17
Saturday
Meet us at the Starting Gate-Live Racing Kickoff
April 21
Wednesday
Secretaries Day
May 1
Saturday
Kentucky Derby
May 9
Sunday
Mother’s Day
May 15
Saturday
Preakness Stakes
May 21
Friday
50’s Friday
May 25
Tuesday
Riding Cup/Jockey Challenge
May 31
Monday
Memorial Day
June 5
Saturday
Belmont Stakes
June 20
Sunday
Father’s Day
June 25
Friday
50’s Friday
July2July5
Friday
4th of July Weekend
July 29
Thursday
Fan Appreciation Day
Aug. 21
Saturday
Major Stakes Race
Sept. 6
Monday
America’s Day at the Races
Oct. 2
Saturday
Major Stakes Race, Rodeo
Nov. 6
Saturday
Breeder’s Cup
Aug.
Every Thursday
Thursday Thunder
Sept.
Every Thursday
Thursday Thunder
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Track H
Schedule of Promotions
July 25
Sunday
Open House
July 28
Wednesday
Opening Day
July 31Hat
Aug. 1
Stars
Saturday-
Hats Off Weekend, Special Olympics 5K Run and
Sunday
Contest, Baseball Cap Giveaway & Satin Silk and
Luncheon
Aug. 8
Sunday
T-Shirt Giveaway, NFL Legends Day
Aug. 9
Monday
Hall of Fame Day
Aug. 14
Saturday
Chili Cook-Off
Aug. 15
Sunday
Stein Giveaway
Aug. 22
Sunday
Sport Bag Giveaway
Aug. 22Aug. 29
Sunday
Travers Festival
Aug. 26
Thursday
Jockey Foot-Race
Aug. 28
Saturday
Travers Day
Sept. 4Sept. 6
Saturday
Monday
Final Stretch Weekend
Sept. 5
Family
Sunday
Classic Collection T-Shirt giveaway, Okterberfest,
Fun Fest
Sept. 6
Monday
America's Day at the Races, Oktoberfest, Family
Fun Fest
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Track I
Schedule of Promotions
March 19
Friday
Opening Day
May 1
Saturday
Kentucky Derby
May 15
Saturday
Preakness Stakes
June 5
Saturday
Belmont Stakes
June 12
Saturday
Country Jam Berea Fairgrounds
June 13
Sunday
Country Jam Berea Fairgrounds
July 3
Saturday
Beach Party
July 4
Sunday
Premier Race Day
July 17
Saturday
5K Fun Run leading up to Graded Stakes
Race.
July 23
Friday
After Work Party leading up to Graded
Sates Race.
July 24
Saturday
Graded Staked Day
July 25
Sunday
Beach Towel Giveaway
Sept 4
Saturday
Kid's Day
Sept 19
Sunday
Concert Series
Oct 2
Saturday
October Beer Stein Giveaway
Nov 6
Saturday
National Breeder's Cup
Dec 4
Saturday
Fan Appreciation Day
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Cover Art
*Cover Art by Sharon Crute. Acquired from website: http:handarc.simplenet.com/.
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