Economics of the thoroughbred racehorse industry in Arizona

Published in 1974

There is a growing awareness among elected state officials of the social need of industries offering recreational services to local citizens. In the State of Arizona the operation and sponsorship of pari-mutuel horse racing has been a significant contributor in fulfilling this growing social demand by local citizens for recreational alternatives. However, associated with the recreational aspects of pari-mutuel horse racing are employment and business activities deriving from the racing and breeding of equine stock, which are important stimulators of the local economy. The intent of this thesis is to describe the structure of the thoroughbred breeding and racing industries in Arizona, and to measure the financial characteristics of these industries. Capital investment and cost of operation data are presented to illustrate the economic parameters associated with the thoroughbred racing industry. Results from the economic survey of the thoroughbred racing industry showed that tax revenues paid on the pari-mutuel handles at Arizona's racetracks are only one of the economic assets associated with thoroughbred racing in the state. Millions of dollars have been invested in land facilities and stock by Arizonans to support the state's horse racing program.

AZU_TD_BOX282_E9791_1974_267.pdf (1.87 MB)

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