Racing and Gaming Conference at Saratoga

to Examine the Economics of Racehorse Ownership

SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY: The Racing and Gaming Conference at Saratoga (RGCS) announced a timely and candid panel that will examine one of the sport’s most persistent and misunderstood challenges: the financial realities of owning a racehorse. Titled “Stubborn Optimism: The Economics of Horse Ownership,” the session brings together leading owners, advisors, and industry veterans to break down the true costs, revenue pressures, and structural inefficiencies shaping the modern ownership experience.

Low-level and mid‑level owners today face rising monthly training bills, escalating workers’ compensation premiums, higher transportation costs, and a growing list of ancillary expenses. At the same time, purse structures must keep pace just to maintain viability. Outdated condition books, short fields, and unfilled races frequently limit earning opportunities, creating a system where passion often outweighs profit.

The conference (taking place August 10-12 at the Saratoga Hilton) will feature this expert panel that will be moderated by Karl Sleight, a Partner at Lippes Mathias. Speakers include:

• Justin Andreozzi, Partner, Lippes Mathias
• Brian Culnan, Of Counsel, O’Connell & Aronowitz
• Kenny McPeek, Trainer, McPeek Racing; Kentucky Derby and Oaks Winning Trainer
• Jack Knowlton, Owner of Kentucky Derby Winner Funny Cide; Managing Partner, Sackatoga Stable
• Brent Malmstrom, Horse Owner

This year’s conference will also include:

NBC’s Steve Kornacki to headline with a discussion called “Concentration, Competition and the Future of American Horse Racing”

• Integrity, Horse Welfare, and the Human Element in Racing
• Regulatory Modernization in U.S. Racing and HISA Update
• Prediction Markets: Innovation or Regulatory and Legal Challenge
• Downstate Casinos and the Future of Gaming in the Northeast
• Prop Bets, Point Shaving, and Game Integrity
• iGaming: Inevitable Innovation or Passing Fancy?
• Regulation, Competition, and Conflicts in the Gaming Ecosystem
• The Future of Historical Horse Racing
• Can the $100/Week Bettor Compete with CAWs?
• A Bet Is a Bet … Or Is It?

SIGNATURE EVENTS

• Welcome Party at the historic Adelphi Hotel
• Twilight Racing Happy Hour
• A Day at the Races at Saratoga Race Course
• Conference coincides with the Fasig-Tipton Yearling Sale

A DAY AT THE RACES

Immediately following the final panel on Wednesday, August 12 (beginning at noon)

Registered attendees can add this always‑popular experience for just $75. Your Race Day package includes:

• Admission to the Saratoga Race Course
• Preferred seating in the popular Porch section — located on the track level of the Clubhouse, just feet from the outside rail
• Food & beverage credit
• Souvenir program book

Space is limited and will sell out! Reserve your Race Day spot today.

SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE, BUT FILLING FAST

A limited number of high‑visibility sponsorship opportunities remain. Organizations interested in elevating their presence at RGCS are encouraged to secure their package soon. See available sponsorship opportunities here.

Registration for the RGCS is open! Early-bird rates are available for those who register before July 9.

A group room block is available at the Saratoga Hilton. Attendees are strongly encouraged to book early to secure their accommodation. Rooms must be booked by July 8 to receive the group rate. To book your stay click here.

An additional block of rooms has been added at the nearby Hampton Inn & Suites Saratoga Springs Downtown. Rooms must be booked by end of day July 10 in order to receive the group rate. To book you stay click here. 

RGCS Contacts:

Sponsorship information: Josh Faber 

Conference and registration questions: Jenna Wheeler

Media inquiries: Sherry Amos

PRESENTED BY

SPONSORS