Can't Bet On The Derby At Running Aces
FOREST LAKE, Minn. (WCCO) -- For the first year, Canterbury Park in Shakopee has exclusive Minnesota rights to Kentucky Derby bidding.
That means Running Aces is shut out of one of racing's biggest days.
Running Aces is known for harness racing, but the Kentucky Derby is a thoroughbred race.
The track has betting rights to harness rights, but as of January, it doesn't have rights to thoroughbred races. The track will broadcast the race, but bets can't be placed on the Derby.
Chairman of the Board John Derus said they are in negotiations, trying to get thoroughbred betting rights back.
"There are no good guys or bad guys, just people who disagree," he said.
Derus says it is a distraction, but not a total loss. The casino said 90 percent of its profits come from the card room and the dining room.
"Bottom line, of course, we want everyone to enjoy racing," he said.
He insists TVs, raffles and cocktails will still attract a crowd.
Canterbury Park said it was Running Aces that made the call to stop sharing rights.
