Keeneland puts Lexington in financial winner’s circle

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ)- Two seasons, two sales and a whole lot of dough.

For the first time, we’re learning just how profitable Keeneland is for Lexington and Fayette County.

Keeneland is popular. Travelers from Cincinnati would agree with that statement.

"It’s a great event for, if we’re going to bring employees down or group events. it’s a fun event for everybody. you don’t have to focus on one thing. you get to bring them all down and have a good time," says one man, in town on business.

"It’s gorgeous. Everybody I know in Cincinnati, comes to Keeneland," says another.

They’ll climb back aboard their charter bus likely, without knowledge of just how much Lexington and Fayette County appreciate their business.

A recent and first study by the track and UK, peg the estimated economic impact at more than half a billion dollars.

But it’s more than hype when you’re talking hooves.

The study breaks down Keeneland’s spring and fall race meets along with its thoroughbred sales. It accounts for what visitors are spending, plus tax. Researchers figured it to be more than $590 million for the area.

"It’s what Keeneland is all about. It’s our mission. Our mission’s to grow our industry, support our community and take care of this great facility," says Keeneland president, Bill Thomason.

So what’s the draw? In efforts to attract fans, incentives. Keeneland Kids’ Club includes an upcoming generation of racing fans and days dedicated to our service members, offer free gate entry and meals.

"So what we saw is we’re being able to bring people into this industry who wouldn’t be in Lexington, other than being able to come out here. That’s a great responsibility and a great opportunity for us, for Keeneland and the community to make sure that we do the things that support what those people are enjoying and why they’re being a part of the business," says Thomason.

Now, track and community leaders look ahead to the Breeders’ Cup.

There are some very interesting numbers contained in the study.

The study identified visitors from 41 different states at the fall 2014 meet.

They spent $19 million on food, $15 million on hotels and nine million on gasoline.