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Kentucky prides itself on horse racing.  So much so in fact that its governor was willing to destroy the entire Internet as we know it just to preserve the dominance the horseracing industry holds in Kentucky gaming.

Now Ron Geary, owner of Ellis Park is determined to get slot machines spinning at local racetracks.  Geary fears that without slot machines, his park will have to cut its 2009 season short and in 2010 there will be no season of which to speak.

“He probably will not allow the bill to occur,” said Senator Dorsey Ridely of the Senate president, who controls the fate of slot machines in the state.

“There is a rumor floating around the capital that in the month of June this summer there very well may be a special legislative session in regards to looking for additional revenue for the Commonwealth of Kentucky.”

According to the Governor’s office it is way too early to tell whether a special session will be called as the regular session has not yet come to an end. 

The cry for slot machines is loud and getting louder, the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission is receiving call for help from Turfway and Kentucky Downs as well.  And the solution remains the same; all tracks want to legally operate slot machines on their premises.

“We see it is a serious threat,” said Lisa Underwood, executive director of the commission.  

“This commission is very cognizant of the problem. I think, ultimately, it's going to be needed from the legislature.”

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