Sales Market polarized . . .

[Shammy_Davis]

. . . from top to bottom. And the industry didn’t see this coming? Come on. This trend is probably the biggest indicator that horse racing is in serious decline. Only the high rollers can really play and it is truly a hobby for them.

http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/213990/recent-trends-expected-to-continue-at-f-t

Certainly race meds are a problem but the industry can work that out. What the industry won’t be able to cure is the pervasive greed and extravagant market that has overwhelmed the game.

It is nice to see the turl writers finally speaking to the issues but they are as much a part of the problem as the mainstream press is in politics. They don’t understand (or ignore) the financial realities of the game nor the ultimate consequences. Well if turf writers lose the game to write about they can turn to being political hacks. The horsemen can go on welfare. I guess.

[Palm_Beach]

I think that trend has been going on for decades. The bottom’s always been awful and the middle struggles.

[Shammy_Davis]

[QUOTE=Palm Beach;8784803]
I think that trend has been going on for decades. The bottom’s always been awful and the middle struggles.[/QUOTE]

My point exactly. It appears just recently that the turf writers are focusing on the severe problems. Research papers galore have historically exposed the problems inherent in the market particularly as it relates to production, inflated expectations, and wastage. Now we read breeders, like PA, are at critical point.

The critical point for the industry was visible over 5 decades ago and, to sales company and KY stud benefit, the industry leaders ignored it.

[omare]

Many moons ago racing could support the small stable and owner and the small stable and owner could support racing. Another words long ago the little guy could own a horse that raced at the mile tracks…not sure they can own anything now…the costs go up and up.

I read quickly but I do not see where there is an analysis of what has happened to the lower and middle end of the market other than it is not there…I see the same thing happen in all the horse sports …horse ownership/horse sport competition is becoming more for the wealthy.

[jennywho]

The same thing is happening to the breeders as well.