The Division of Racing of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission releases 2015 Annual Report
- June 06, 2016
- by MGC Communications
- 0 comments
Today the Division of Racing of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission is pleased to publish its Annual Report for calendar year 2015. This report details the fourth year of Division of Racing operations since the Massachusetts Gaming Commission assumed duties of the Massachusetts Racing Commission.
In 2015, the Division of Racing implemented several new programs. For the first time, occupational licensees had the option of taking out multi-year licenses and paying license application fees by credit card. Both programs were well-received. The Massachusetts State Police worked closely with our licensing staff to implement fingerprinting. The TCO2 blood testing program was brought completely under the control of the Gaming Commission.
With the opening of Plainridge Park Casino, a new racing building was constructed, housing the offices for licensing, judges, Massachusetts State Police, and the Division of Racing. Plainridge Park Racecourse increased the number of race days from 80 days in 2014 to 105 days in 2015. There was also a significant increase in the total amount of purses distributed.
Suffolk Downs raced three days, which allowed the Massachusetts-Bred Thoroughbreds a chance to race in-state. Many familiar trainers, owners, jockeys, racing officials, etc. returned.