From a Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races release
Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races (“HCCTR”) and the Charles Town Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (“HBPA”) have agreed to terms on a new contract for a minimum of three years.
“While it was a lengthy process, I’m happy to say that both sides worked amicably and collaboratively towards a completed agreement,” said Charles Town’s General Manager Al Britton. “There was plenty of give and take, but both sides understood how important it was to agree on a contract that would bring some certainty to both the track and the horsemen. We’re happy to have gotten it done.”
The previous contract between the track and horsemen’s group was entered into in 2009 and expired at the end of 2014. The two organizations had been operating on successive extensions of that contract as negotiations progressed.
“We’re pleased that after many months of comprehensive negotiations conducted with integrity by both sides, the HBPA and HCCTR have agreed upon a multi-year contract,” said Charles Town HBPA President Randy Funkhouser. “With the signing of this contract the HBPA and HCCTR reaffirm their shared interest in the promotion and long-term stability of year-round, live thoroughbred horse racing which is so vital to Jefferson County families, businesses, and farms.”
Live racing at Charles Town will be conducted through Saturday this week, prior to a short break being taken over the week of July 4th. Following the holiday, live racing at Charles Town will resume on July 8 with the second half of the 2015 racing calendar highlighted by the Race for the Ribbon – featuring the $350,000 Charles Town Oaks (G3) – on September 19 and West Virginia Breeders’ Classics XXIX on October 10.
