TVG, HRTV merger could be cost efficient, stir interest

An interesting scenario presented itself this week when Multichannel News reported TVG officially is up for sale. The network has an estimated value of $112 million. However, it remains to be seen in this country's economic climate if anyone would be willing to pay anything close to that.

TVG has provided a valuable service to horse racing fans. We've been spoiled this past decade and have taken TVG and HRTV for granted.

I would love to see a merger of the two networks. There is more than enough horse racing product to provide a two-headed broadcast like ESPN and ESPN2 does.

A combined operation could be cost efficient, too. HRTV is in no great shakes financially if the market value of Magna Entertainment stock is any indicator. For horse racing to grow its audience, we need to protect the long-term futures of TVG and HRTV.

Excellent talent is in front of the cameras and behind the scenes that could elevate the product further. For example, where both channels have room for improvement is in creating new fans.

I'm sure you've noticed that Las Vegas casinos build race, sports and poker facilities near each other for a reason. They are brain games, and its players have much in common. Las Vegas is promoting horse racing to neophytes better than the sport itself.

• BOOK BETS? -- Patty Jones, executive director of the Nevada Pari-Mutuel Association, spoke this week at the International Simulcast Conference in St. Petersburg, Fla. According to the Blood-Horse, Jones said Nevada casinos have spent a "fortune" improving race and sports books. This despite a smaller return on investment than other forms of gaming. In response to racetracks seeking higher simulcast fees for its signal, Jones said, "If the books aren't fairly priced, they'd probably go back to booking."

• TOURNAMENTS -- If you missed the Fall Classic this week at the Orleans or Thursday's one-day sub-qualifier at Santa Fe Station, you have more chances. A $150 one-day qualifier for the South Point Finale will take place Thursday. Then on Oct. 23, Sunset Station will host a $40 sub-qualifier for the 2009 National Handicapping Championship.

• BC FUTURES -- Lucky's race books have posted future book odds for the Breeders' Cup Classic, Turf, Sprint and Ladies Classic. Now you can price shop between those Breeders' Cup races against 10 offered at Wynn Las Vegas.

Richard Eng's horse racing column is published Friday. He can be reached at rich_eng@hotmail.com.