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Keeneland In Economic Impact Winners Circle

A new study from the University of Kentucky shows the multi-million dollar economic stimulus that Keeneland provides to Lexington and Fayette County.

The study, conducted by UK’s Center for Business and Economic Research with the Gatton College of Business is the first to put a number on Keeneland’s economic impact to the community.  That number was just a nose shy of 600 million dollars in 2014. “We were very pleased and in some cases  I will have to tell you from the depth of Keeneland and how it affects the Lexington economy and the regional economy we’re very proud of the results.“  Keeneland President Bill Thomason said 6,365 horses came through the auction ring during four globally renowned Thoroughbred sales last year and pulled in $534 million dollars from investors world-wide. “For the sales, the international aspects of who’s here in town from all over the world and outside Fayette County outside the state”

The study also gave an in-depth look at the variety of people who visit Central Kentucky during Keeneland’s spring and fall racing meets.  “More than 50% of the people who come to our races, a half million visitors a year, and the thought that over half of them are coming only to be at Keeneland.  That’s the reason that they’re coming to Fayette County.  That’ means that they’re in our hotels, they’re in our restaurants, they’re in our community because of the industry.  That’s heartening.  That’s a great economic driver for the region”

The economic impact of the track is expected to increase this year, when Keeneland hosts the 2015 Breeders’ Cup World Championship, a 13-race event worth $26 million.