Greyhound simulcasts are set to resume in Colorado next week after a nearly one-year hiatus. The governor signed a bill Thursday that would allow racetracks and off-track betting parlors to take wagers on out-of-state dog races without having to run greyhounds live in state.
Arapahoe Park, Havana Park, Red & Jerry’s and Mile High Greyhound Park could begin simulcasting greyhound races as soon as Wednesday, said Bruce Seymore, executive director of Mile High Racing & Entertainment.
A full slate of simulcast signals from nine out-of-state tracks is expected by May 30.
Simulcasting of greyhound races halted last summer after track and kennel operators couldn’t reach a new contract on live races. Racetracks were previously required to hold live dog races in Colorado during the same week that they aired out-of-state simulcasts.
In addition to lifting that requirement, the new law allows tracks and betting parlors to take wagers on simulcasts year-round. They were previously restricted to 250 days a year.
Kennel operators opposed the measure, stating that it would effectively kill live greyhound racing in Colorado.
Horse races are still being held in the state. Arapahoe Park kicks off the horse- racing season today.
