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National Thoroughbred League Continues Record-Breaking Streak at Fairmount Park

NTL’s latest event, The Nelly Cup, resulted in the league’s largest crowd

ST. LOUIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The National Thoroughbred League reported results from its latest event, The Nelly Cup, which resulted in its largest-ever crowd, more than 6,200 fans, and one of the year’s largest betting days at Fairmount Park, outside St. Louis, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary.

The league’s newest team, the St. Louis Nellies, who recently moved from Seatle after native son Nelly took an increased ownership stake in the franchise, won the very first race, thanks to a stirring win by Sassy and Bold. The overall Nelly Cup, determined by the accumulated points total over the three NTL races, was won by the New York Knights, who had a winner in Busk, and who extended their season-long lead in the standings.

“The opportunity to host the NTL this past weekend was wonderful for Fairmount Park and our loyal and exuberant fan base,” said Vince Gabbert, General Manager at Fairmount Park, which is undergoing a $100 million expansion and renovation. “It signifies optimism for the racing product that will continue to work hand in hand-with-a first-class gaming operation. We look forward to serving as an NTL host site for many years to come.”

Besides the on-track competition, the afternoon-long event featured numerous activities, including a fan fashion show, an on-track kids race featuring inflatable horses, NFL player meet-and-greets, a VIP afterparty at Fairmount’s brand-new trackside bar, Longshots, and DJ performances, hosted by Jarobi White, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member of A Tribe Called Quest and a co-owner of the Miami Thunderbolts.

“This event again demonstrates the power of the ‘NTL Effect’,” said NTL cofounder Randall Lane, referring to the surges in attendance and betting when the league hosts at a track. “We were blown away by the response in St. Louis, both the numbers and the enthusiasm of the crowd.”

The NTL finishes its third season next month, when it will host the Nashville Cup at Kentucky Downs. That event, hosted by Country Music Hall of Famer Tanya Tucker, anticipates total purses that will approach $2 million as it crowns its overall champion.

For more information on the NTL and upcoming events, visit www.NTL.Racing.

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National Thoroughbred League

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