Complexities of Modern Gaming Regulation to be Topic at Racing and Gaming Conference at Saratoga 


SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY: The Racing and Gaming Conference at Saratoga (RGCS), will present a timely and in‑depth panel titled “Regulation, Competition, and Conflicts in the Modern Gaming Ecosystem.” As gaming markets continue to evolve and expand, this session will examine the increasingly complex relationships among state lotteries, casinos, racetracks, sportsbooks, OTBs, VLTs and other competing sectors vying for consumer attention and revenue.


The conference will be held August 10-12 at the Saratoga Hilton.



Today’s gaming environment is defined by overlapping jurisdictions, blurred market boundaries, and regulatory bodies that often serve dual roles as both overseers and market participants. This dynamic raises critical questions about structure, accountability, independence, and the long‑term integrity of the industry. Panelists will explore how regulatory frameworks can be designed to minimize conflicts of interest, promote fair competition, and ensure that governance models keep pace with rapid innovation and shifting consumer behavior.

This powerhouse panel will be moderated by Josh Oppenheimer, Shareholder at Greenberg Traurig. Speakers will include:


  • Waqas Ahmed, Executive Secretary, Virginia Racing Commission
  • Adam Koenig, former Kentucky Legislator; Executive Director, Kentucky Quarter Horse Racing Association
  • Melanie laCour, Legal Director, ZwillGen PLLC
  • Stephen Landry, Executive Director, Louisiana State Racing Commission

This session underscores RGCS’s commitment to fostering informed dialogue, strengthening regulatory integrity, and addressing the most pressing issues facing the modern gaming ecosystem.


The conference also will feature NBC’s Steve Kornacki, who will headline a discussion called “Concentration, Competition and the Future of American Horse Racing.” Other session topics include:

 

  • Regulatory Modernization in U.S. Racing and HISA Update
  • Integrity, Horse Welfare, and the Human Element in Racing
  • Downstate Casinos and the Future of Gaming in the Northeast
  • Prediction Markets: Innovation or Regulatory and Legal Challenge?
  • iGaming: Inevitable Innovation or Passing Fancy?
  • The Economics of Horse Ownership
  • Prop Bets, Point Shaving, and Game Integrity
  • 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

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.

HOTEL INFORMATION

This year’s conference coincides with “the crown jewel of the North American yearling sales calendar” – The Saratoga Sale – which features the finest of the North American yearling crop. This also means Saratoga will be bustling with visitors, so Attendees are strongly encouraged to book early.



If you have not yet secured your accommodations, a list of area hotels is as follows. Please note that the RGCS cannot guarantee availability.


Saratoga Hilton

Hampton Inn & Suites Saratoga Downtown

Embassy Suites Saratoga Springs

Holiday Inn Saratoga Springs

Saratoga Casino Hotel

Hilton Garden Inn Saratoga

RGCS Contacts:

Sponsorship information: Josh Faber 

Conference and registration questions: Jenna Wheeler

Media inquiries: Sherry Amos

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