“It’s Disappointing”: Despite a Lackluster Beginning, New Equestrian Racing League Eyes Labor Day Weekend

There is a new equestrian league on the horizon. As Labor Day approaches, the National Thoroughbred League (NTL) aims to become a new premier league for all equestrian enthusiasts. With a grand plan of attracting a youthful, affluent audience, the NTL has been busy crafting a high-end, VIP experience that promises a thrilling race at Kentucky Downs, followed by a spectacular concert in the vibrant heart of Nashville.

However, all good things take time and the path leading up to this much-anticipated premiere has not been without its share of hurdles. But despite the setbacks, all stakeholders look forward to resolving the issues at the latest and are still on track for a September launch.

The latest equestrian league already faces setbacks

The initial blueprint envisioned summer events at two prominent East Coast tracks, but the road has been reshaped. This means that there will now be a condensed tour with four stops instead of the initially planned seven. According to a Horse Racing Nation report, NTL president Tom Ludt said, “I’m not going to lie. It’s disappointing.” However, despite these early setbacks, the NTL remains positive in its approach. The young league will proudly grace an undercard handicap race at Kentucky Downs on September 3 which will align with the Grade 3, $750,000 Dueling Grounds Derby as the centerpiece of the day’s racing festivities.

Further revealing his game plan for the start of the league, president Tom Ludt said, “We’re running a $500,000, one-mile turf race for 3 and up. It’s being helped purse-wise by Kentucky Downs. The horses are going to run in our silks on a one-day basis.” While the Kentucky Downs event forges ahead with unwavering determination, the NTL will not be gracing Seattle with its presence next month. The originally planned event on September 15 and 16 at Emerald Downs has been postponed until the next year.

Track president Phil Ziegler revealed that the league ran out of time this year. He further emphasized that, given a new league, there were some difficulties from an organizational and structural point of view, which resulted in Emerald Downs being removed from the original plan. However, every league needs a team, without which the whole point of a league becomes irrelevant. NTL president has his own set of ideas when it comes to adding teams to the league.

Where will the teams come from in a new league?

The NTL have their own unique way of attracting new teams to become part of their young league. They are attracting individuals who have a passion for the thundering hooves and heart-pounding excitement of horse racing. With an enticing entry fee of $100,000, the National Thoroughbred League (NTL) is offering an opportunity to step into the shoes of a team owner. Each team will consist of six magnificent horses. Among these, three contenders will grace the track in each of the three-race NTL programs, showcasing their speed, grace, and tenacity to a captivated audience. While the roster of jockeys and trainers might experience shifts as each team sees fit, the star athletes themselves, the horses, remain the consistent elements of this dynamic league.

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As launch day nears a close, all eyes will be on how the NTL will cater to equestrian lovers. It is important to note that new beginnings take time to solidify into household names. As the NTL embraces the ups and downs of its inaugural journey, the league’s spirit of innovation, perseverance, and dedication to revolutionizing the horse racing experience remains undiminished.

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