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tinue without the construction of a Hill) had already allocated the funds before we had confirmed the Breeders’ Cup race.”
Getting the Breeders’ Cup race to Fair Hill was a long-term, joint project that began four years ago with Charles T. Colgan, executive secretary of the National Steeplechase and Hunt Association.
“The NSHA went to Breeders’ Cup at the outset,” Mr. Colgan explained. “In our earliest discussions they felt it better not to try to do too much, because it was a new and ambitious plan for all of Thoroughbred racing.
“The first year was a success for the flat racing people and from time to time we would knock on their door and remind them that steeplechase horses are Thoroughbreds too.”
Mr. Groat, who is a member of the NSHA Board of Stewards, was kept abreast of NSHA negotiations. But, rather than sit back and play the waiting game, he decided to do some footwork of his own.
“After the Colonial Cup last year, on a Thursday afternoon I decided it would be a good idea to simulcast the Breeders’ Cup to Fair Hill — no races, just simulcast wagering to generate some income without the expenses of a race meet,” Mr. Groat explained. “I called George Strawbridge and asked for his opinions. He thought it was a good idea and maybe Fair Hill
See Cup, Page 16
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