In a surprising new development, a consortium of businessmen has announced
plans to build North America’s largest racetrack in the desert outside of Las
Vegas. Scheduled to open in 2007, the new facility will be known as the
Thoroughbred Palace and feature a 1 3/4-mile main track and a world-class turf
course inside of it. A spectacular infield lake, with a floating casino and
other water attractions, is planned, and officials believe horsemen will want to
run on the main track’s new surface, Naturetrack.
“Instead of turning to Europeans for a solution in improving track safety, we
hired a team of American scientists who have developed Naturetrack, a sand-like
surface that is better than Polytrack,” said Mike Jackson, spokesman for the
Thoroughbred Palace. “Instead of using silicone or other chemicals, scientists
utilized a new process that turns tree bark into a rubbery-like surface that
will ensure a fair, even racing surface that is impervious to weather conditions
in the area. There won’t be any respiratory concerns because Naturetrack is made
of organic materials, including herbal supplements that inhibit bleeding, and is 100 percent safe to inhale.
“Naturetrack will significantly reduce injuries,” Jackson continued.
“Drainage is also better. Horizontal and vertical drainage both have their flaws
— Naturetrack drains diagonally, which will make a big difference. And forget
about kickback, we promise that won’t be an issue. Naturetrack is sure to
revolutionize the sport for the better.”
Details of ownership remain vague, but Michael Jordan, Steve Wynn and the
Maloof brothers are all rumored to be partners in the new desert track. There is
speculation that retired Hall of Fame jockey Jerry Bailey is being recruited to
be the track’s general manager.
All forms of gambling will be available in the massive new facility, with
card rooms, keno and even a bingo hall planned alongside the gigantic casino. There
will be
plenty of glitz and glamour throughout the new plant, and management plans to
lure top-notch entertainers like Tom Jones, Celine Dion and Danny Gans to
perform at the soon-to-be biggest theatre in Las Vegas. The Thoroughbred Palace
will also have a VIP room on its top floor for high rollers who want to wager or
just enjoy some entertainment.
Air-conditioned barns, lakeside villas, an equine spa and many other amenities are available to horsemen, and
ownership will promote the advantages of new computer technology at the
Thoroughbred Palace.
“Live Thoroughbred racing will thrive in Las Vegas,” industry expert Newton
Wayne explained. “The sport still hasn’t caught up to the 21st century at most
tracks, but the Thoroughbred Palace will be different — it will be a
magnificent achievement on many fronts.”