Major locales to lose tracks in recent years include Los Angeles, Chicago, Boston, San Francisco, Portland, Detroit, Miami, probably New York and maybe Phoenix. That seems secondary now until Stronach figures out California. Makes me wonder if the Stronach Group will somehow redirect its interests in Arizona Downs - as was once mentioned - to perhaps revitalize the stagnant industry in Arizona. With the extension of Golden Gate's survival until June 30, northern Cal has ongoing discussions with its fair tracks to keep racing ongoing in some capacity and with that, southern Cal should be boosted. Turf Paradise's owner (Jerry Simms) said he is locking the doors on October 1 and by state law that means related OTBs - 37 of them - will not be permitted to simulcast. It is a minor league track by comparison to big boys in Florida, Kentucky, Maryland, New York and elsewhere but to lose another facility and in a major city is not a good sign.
