Gayle Benson Issues Statement on Fair Grounds

Gayle Benson, who owns the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans, talked to the public after more people got interested in what the future holds for horse racing at Fair Grounds Race Course. Folks from the community, fans of racing, and leaders have said they’re worried that horse racing might stop at this old track, leading to talks about what can be done, with some saying Gayle Benson should help out.

The main point here is about Churchill Downs Inc., the company that owns Fair Grounds. Leaders who know about this matter have said that Churchill Downs talked about less money coming in from the historical horse racing machines at their off-track betting place. This loss has made people worry about how well the off-track betting will keep hosting races.

To handle the talk and thoughts about her role, Gayle Benson had Greg Bensel, who is a top person for the Saints and Pelicans, share her words. Her statement answered the people who reached out and made clear where she stands now.

“With the recent news generated by Churchill Downs concerning their continued racing at Fair Grounds, we have had numerous calls regarding our interest in purchasing the Fair Grounds. Mrs. Gayle Benson continues to support the horse racing industry not only in Kentucky but more importantly here in Louisiana,” the statement read.

Bensel added that Gayle Benson has kept a long-standing relationship with Churchill Downs leadership and is closely following the situation. The statement reflected her preference to see racing continue in New Orleans with long-term success, although it confirmed there has been no move on her part to initiate a purchase or negotiate for ownership.

“She has always maintained a great relationship with the leadership at Churchill Downs and certainly has been monitoring this situation at the Fair Grounds. She hopes that horse racing continues in New Orleans at the Fair Grounds and is prosperous and sustainable,” it continued.

Horse racing supporters see the Fair Grounds as more than just a venue. It’s been part of New Orleans’ story since 1837. For many years, it has been a big spot for races in the South, and it still holds a key place in the field.

The overall public interest in Gayle Benson’s possible involvement arises at least in part from her history of patronizing Louisiana-based entities. Her ownership of the Saints and Pelicans, and her local charitable donations, have established her as an individual upon whom many people rely to donate to causes with wide-ranging community impact.

The Fair Grounds anxiety has now reached the attention of legislators, who are debating what actions the state can take to support local races. The majority are interested in how the stream of money would be harmed if live races are limited or removed altogether. Residents have also been vocal in expressing that they don’t want to keep bets off the tracks, as money generated from historic horse racing machines is still controversial.

Churchill Downs, the group that got the Fair Grounds in 2004, has kept quiet about any plans for the place. Now worth $7 billion, the group has turned most of its eye to new spots. What they decide about New Orleans could change talks about the historical horse racing machines and how they help keep the races there make money.

For now, racing at Fair Grounds continues, but public concern is growing. Whether Churchill Downs keeps the off-track betting open or considers a sale remains to be seen. Gayle Benson’s recent comments, though limited, have given supporters hope that community voices are being heard and that the Fair Grounds’ future may still be secured, depending on what happens next.