7/24/2010
After 21 years as a pari-mutuel racetrack, Manor Downs near Austin will close on July 25. In a press release, the track attributed the closure to “the recent significant drop in handle due to the economy along with the migration of horses to our neighboring states” as the primary reasons for closure.
According to the release, the track is considering alternative uses for the facility, including the possibility of a live concert venue. Prior to the closure, track CEO Howard Phillips indicated that the track could reopen if it were to be sold or if legislation was passed to help the horse racing industry.
Outstanding tickets may be cashed up to one year from the date of issue. Tickets may be cashed in the business office opposite the Turf Club between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday thru Friday. Tickets may also be mailed to: Manor Downs, P.O. Box 141309, Austin, TX 78714.
Manor, which was the oldest operating pari-mutuel track in Texas, held 14 days of mixed breed racing earlier this year and had been open for simulcasting on a year-round basis.
Although the closing will affect both breeds, it will have a greater impact on Quarter Horses because Manor averaged about nine Quarter Horse races per day and three Thoroughbred races. Manor has typically been a starting point for 2-year-old Quarter Horses and offers two rich futurities. Unlike at the state’s three Class 1 tracks, the majority of simulcast revenue at Manor goes to the Quarter Horse purse fund.