Hialeah

[vineyridge]

It's gone, isn't it?

It was such a lovely track in its heyday. Woke up this morning thinking of flamingos and wondering what happened to them.

Didn't something about racing dates kill Hialeah off? Is it now a subdivision?

[Glimmerglass]

I could behind in the news, but I don't think the track is entirely dead yet as a physical structure. Racing wise its been closed for years (dark since mid 2001) and its racing dates have been stripped since 2003. John Brunetti who owns the place has tried but you could say he's fighting the world to keep it a race course.

The stables are gone - razed in January 2007.

Miami Herald Mar 9, 2007 - "Race is on to save Hialeah track" (http://www.bradenton.com/mld/bradenton/news/nation/16872166.htm)

Meanwhile, the park's past was fading fast. In November, the Hialeah City Council swiftly approved a measure declassifying the historic designation of the horse stables. In January, a bulldozer tore them down.

Hialeah Mayor Julio Robaina called the stables, which had suffered damage from Hurricane Wilma, an eyesore that was causing a rodent problem for neighboring businesses.

The final clincher for Fuentes' group in came in February when the City Council approved a measure calling for the creation of five ''new business development districts'' throughout the city. Two of the proposed development areas, with buildings of three to seven stories, would be located on Palm Avenue and East 4th Avenue -- land that runs parallel to the park.

Robaina assured the more than 200 residents who crammed into every seat of the council chambers for the Feb. 13 vote that the development districts ``had nothing to do with Hialeah Park.''

The Miami Herald did a great multimedia presentation on the facility in December (although the URL is no longer active) with a walk though of what was left - the pink flamingoes were still there.



From the MH article in December:

[quote]Hialeah Park opened in 1925, attracting such luminaries as Winston Churchill and presidents Truman and Kennedy with its lush landscaping, Mediterranean-style architecture, and the island of frolicking flamingos. Many of the legendary horses -- including Spectacular Bid, Alydar and Seattle Slew -- ran there.

Now? The track once dubbed The World's Most Beautiful Racecourse has been reduced to hosting two or three weddings a week in the only hall that's still operational. However, even that will end after Dec. 31 because the hall's condition has deteriorated.

''I've been here 13 years, and it is sad for me to see a place with so much history and that brought so much excitement sitting dormant,'' said Hialeah city councilman Steve Bovo, who serves as Hialeah Park's asset manager.

The track closed for racing after the Florida Legislature refused to continue regulating racing dates so Hialeah could operate competition-free. Brunetti, who purchased Hialeah Park in 1977, saw no point in engaging Gulfstream Park and Calder Race Course in a battle for customers and horses.

May 22, 2001, Cheeky Mist would be the final horse to win a race at the park.

Images of the course then and now - from Cindy Pierson Dulay's site (http://www.horse-races.net/library/hialeah-photos07.htm)

[vineyridge]

Thanks, Glimmerglass.

Guess I was thinking about Hialeah because it's getting to be Flamingo Stakes time. That race is such a huge loss. The Flamingo winner was the automatic Derby favorite.

[lizathenag]

I post a comment about it on the Gulfstream thread and then continue down and it has it's own thread!

I saw Seattle Slew break the track record in his first race as a three year old (a race they wrote for him-the Flamingo Hopeful) there.

[witherbee]

So sad, to me it is the most beautiful grandstand around and the track was a wonderful surface for the horses. I really miss it and the gorgeous backside too. Just in too rough of an area... I sure hope it doesn't get torn down.

[Glimmerglass]

False hope? Maybe but damn it would be great to see this fallen treasure rise again like Lazarus!

Miami Today May 3, 2007 "Hialeah track could reopen for racing, slots" (http://www.miamitodaynews.com/news/070503/story1.shtml)

excerpt

The [Florida] House of Representatives this week formed a committee to consider allowing 10 parimutuel facilities in the state to have Class II slot machines, currently used in Indian casinos in the state.

The Hialeah track, which stopped conducting races in 2001, would join Flagler Dog Track, Miami Jai-alai and Calder Race Track as Miami-Dade County sites authorized for slots. Track officials would need to apply for a new license from the state's Division of Pari-Mutuel Wagering, which revoked the track's racing permits in 2003.

Hialeah Mayor Julio Robaina and City Councilwoman Cindy Miel have said their top choice is to bring racing back to the park.

National Historic Landmarks Program: Hialeah (http://www.cr.nps.gov/nhl/DOE_dedesignations/hialeah.htm)

The racetrack was purchased in 1930 by Joseph E. Widener, who undertook a major renovation, hiring architect Lester W. Geisler to design a master plan for the sporting facility.

Ironically if you are Philadelphia architecture buff you'll know that Widener's brother (Geroge D.)'s grand mansion Lynnewood Hall has been looted from the inside out (http://www.preservationalliance.com/img/2003%20endangered%20updates/Lynnewood%20Hall.jpg) in a true rape of architecture.

[FLAbreds]

False hope? Maybe but damn it would be great to see this fallen treasure rise again like Lazarus!

Miami Today May 3, 2007 "Hialeah track could reopen for racing, slots" (http://www.miamitodaynews.com/news/070503/story1.shtml)



Now, wouldn't that be something!! Lets hope racing will return to Hialeah. :yes:

[special]

Hialeah was such a beautiful track compared to Calder and Gulfstream. I loved the Flamingo stakes and I will miss the Flamingo Ball!!!

Some great racing legends have raced there. The drive to get there was a little funky as I would not like to break down on my way to that track. However I will never forget the many beautiful memories I had there. I loved looking at the racing silks everywhere and the lovely pink flamingos. It will be greatly missed!!!:(

[Sunny14]

Does anyone know what happend to the statue of Citation or any of the plaques that were there?

[el insider]

savehialeahpark.com i think is their site soooo sad one of the most beautiful tracks in the country of not the world !!!!!!

[el insider]

i meant to say "if not the world"

[mintano]

My boss had a horse, Sensitive Prince, a wicked fast colt who set a track record at Hialeah. Ran in the derby but faded badly due to using up all his energy on the front end.

[horsepowerco]

My boss had a horse, Sensitive Prince, a wicked fast colt who set a track record at Hialeah. Ran in the derby but faded badly due to using up all his energy on the front end.


I had a lovely mare by Sensitive Prince... she was AWESOME! He was a beautiful stallion.

[Acertainsmile]

The last time I galloped around that track was in 96 or 97... such a grand old place...

When I was very young my grandfather had a news stand not far from the stable gate that sold racing forms...he frequented the races there often... my hubby was stabled there in the early 90's...

It would be wonderful to see the place saved from complete ruin.

[horsepowerco]

When I was little I lived in South Fla...Dana, Ft Laud, Hollywood, Davie, Biscane Bay Trips to Hialeah happened every now and then. Got to see Slew start his 3 yr old season in fine fashion but was too young to know why he was so special. For petesake my idea of racing back then was running the snot out of my pony through the orange groves! (look out for them trees)

I do remember how majestic Hialeah was though...with the Flamingos in the infield.
I certainly hope they can save it.

[mintano]

I had a lovely mare by Sensitive Prince... she was AWESOME! He was a beautiful stallion.

That's so neat. He was gorgeous and fast...my boss told me when she galloped him he was nothing but a dead runaway...granted a talented runaway.

[lizathenag]

Got to see Slew start his 3 yr old season in fine fashion.

How cool that we were both there that day. ..

[horsepowerco]

Liza...you know what else is cool...the lady who broke and started Slew now breaks Mine. LOVE HER! Fate maybe? who knows. :)

[Glimmerglass]

Another very well done article on what has effectively and will almost certainly be lost forever ...

Palm Beach Post May 23, 2008 "Hialeah Park remains a horse racing tragedy" (http://www.palmbeachpost.com/sports/content/sports/epaper/2008/05/22/0522hialeah_park.html)

excerpt

Various plans have been on the drawing board for so long, it's pointless to dwell on what will be.

All everybody knows is what Hialeah is today - off-limits - isn't what it should be. Hall of Fame trainer Nick Zito, whose horses hold two Hialeah records: "Oh, you talk about history - I would call it the queen mother. Hialeah is as good as any track in America."


"Hialeah was built for Palm Beach," Brunetti says. "You had so many of those great families, particularly in racing, that were up in Palm Beach and you had the train that brought them all down here. It became a social event, an hour ride on the train."

Some came for the racing, some for the rice pudding, but everyone came to feel special. This was an age when uniformed policemen saluted as each car rolled down the famous tree-lined driveway. A time when if you stood up, ushers tapped you on the shoulder, a quiet reminder there were ladies and gentlemen behind you.

"If you had diamonds," Joe Hirsch, famed columnist for the Daily Racing Form once said, "you wore them at Hialeah."

Nothing shined like the horses: War Admiral. Whirlaway. Assault. Citation. Seattle Slew.

Triple Crown winners, all. And Nashua, the 1955 Horse of the Year who was expected to draw perhaps 35,000 when he ran in the '56 Widener Handicap. He didn't. A record 42,366 attended. Then again, 33 photographers captured him receiving the key to the city upon arrival.

"The most-publicized equine journey since Paul Revere," The New York Times reported

[Glimmerglass]

Youtube.com - 4min video from 'Save Hialeah' on what once was (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TFLPA8VZIBI)

youtube.com = 3min video - a mix of old and new images (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-CslbrGphJA&feature=related)

[Glimmerglass]

Wait is that a pulse we hear? Is the patient not dead yet? Mr. Minor who bought a lovely historic Virginia estate house last year - to breed race horses - and owns a few excellent runners as well is the exceedingly wealthy man behind this news

Palm Beach Post July 19, 2008 "CNet founder wants to buy, resurrect Hialeah Park" (http://www.palmbeachpost.com/Sports/content/sports/epaper/2008/07/19/0718hialeah.html)

A Virginia multimillionaire with a soft spot for horses and preserving history said he wants to buy Hialeah Park, restore it to its most glorious state and resume wintertime racing at the facility, which has been dormant since 2001.

Halsey Minor, 43, founder of Nasdaq 100 technology news site CNet and owner of an also-ran in this year's Florida Derby, hopes he can strike a deal with Hialeah owner John Brunetti, begin renovations to the hurricane-ravaged park and compete with Gulfstream Park during the prime winter tourist season.

Minor and Brunetti have not spoken, so no timetables or dollar figures have been discussed. Reached Friday on a trip to California for the opening of Del Mar racetrack, Brunetti was intrigued and said he would spend the weekend talking to horsemen to learn about Minor.

"I continue to say it: My first desire was the continuation of racing at Hialeah at the highest standard possible," Brunetti said. "I think that Hialeah would get a lot of support from breeders, owners, fans and everyone else.

"Every place I go, I hear, 'When are you going to open up Hialeah, John?' And it becomes vitriolic, like, 'Why the hell don't you open up and get rid of these guys?' "

As recently as this spring, Brunetti agreed that the resumption of racing at Hialeah, which opened in 1925, represented one of the longest of long shots.

He estimated it would take $25 million to $30 million to get it in racing shape, and even then, issues remain: whether a racing license can be obtained from the state, whether Hialeah can compete with Gulfstream in Hallandale Beach and Calder Race Course in Miami Gardens, and whether accessibility will deter fans.

Minor said he needs to study those issues but is determined to press forward. Hialeah last held a race on May 22, 2001, so Minor has never attended the track, not even to tour the grounds in their present state.

He said that doesn't matter.

"What I really care about is what it looked like in its heyday," said Minor, who has studied recent Hialeah photos on the Internet. "That's what I want to recreate. I want to create the charm, the Hialeah everybody talks about in hushed tones. I could go down and look at it right now ... I could tell you, 'I looked at Hialeah and yes, Hialeah is falling apart,' but it doesn't make any difference. I don't care about the beginning state. I care about the end state."

From Brunetti's perspective, the timing could be right. He bought the track in 1977 but is weary from years of seeing it empty, in disrepair and overgrown. His proposals to develop the site have stalled, and he recently requested the state restore its racing permit. He also said he recently was approached by trainers, including Eclipse Award winner Todd Pletcher, about the possibility of building stables at Hialeah for their horses.

Minor has aligned himself with Alex Fuentes, who as head of Citizens to Save Hialeah Park has fielded plenty of calls from would-be Hialeah saviors.

"A lot of yahoos saying they want to buy the park, so I'm very suspicious," Fuentes said. "But this one intrigued me because after three e-mails that he sent me, I did my research on him. I said, 'OK, if he is who he says he is, just his name and his background have enough clout to make a story out of it.' ... We spoke for hours at a time and he didn't seem like a yahoo to me."

Minor's family is entrenched in Virginia history. It includes great-great-grandfather John B. Minor, chair of the University of Virginia law department in the 1800s, who persuaded George Custer to not to burn down the university during the Civil War.

Halsey Minor, who has a home in San Francisco but considers himself a Virginian, started CNet and Web-based communications platform GrandCentral, which he sold to Google. In December, he bought the 400-acre plantation Carter's Grove for $15.3 million for horse-breeding and preservation. Like Hialeah Park, Carter's Grove has historic designations. Minor said he has never lived in a house that didn't have horse pictures on the walls.

"Hialeah is kind of at the nexus of the two things I care about most, which is preserving something which is of historical significance - which Hialeah no doubt is - and also reinvigorating the horse racing industry," said Minor, who doesn't feel the Gulfstream model of a racetrack and casino is the answer.

" ... I'm looking for a place to plant my flag and I think there is no better place than Hialeah. If Hialeah were brought back so it's as beautiful as it was on its most beautiful day, I think it would send a very strong signal to a thoroughbred industry that is now reeling and on its heels."

[98neigh]

Wouldn't that be great. My mother and aunt used to go to Hialeah when I was a kid, I think my mom won a $2 bet on a 99 - 1 shot, she bet the horse because Bill Shoemaker was the jock.

[VirginiaBred]

This is exciting news. I hope he can do it!

[halo]

If any of you have recently been in that area, you'll know that this idea has very little chance of happening. The area that it is in now is terrible; I dont know of any owners or trainers who would want to have to live there to race.

[DMK]

I was working for a SFL trainer with primo barn space when Brunetti played his very poor hand against Donn and discovered that Kenny Noe and Calder actually did hold all the cards. The squabbling had been going on for years, but I do believe when Kenny Noe had enough of playing 3rd chair and decided to close Calder that winter for "renovation" that was the straw that broke Hialeah's back, it just took a few more years to bury the grand old gal.

But living and working in racing those days, it sure looked like the asshole with a Hialeah Death Wish was Brunetti. Maybe there was more behind the scenes, but it sure played out in a public face like he was doing everything possible to ruin any chance it had.

So sad. One of my fondest memories of Hialeah was walking down that lovely old path to put this horse (http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2200/3302146/10616695/259669308.jpg) on my trailer to start his new career.

[Glimmerglass]

As spied by equidaily ....

PBP July 21, 2008 "Talks continue on Hialeah Park sale" (http://www.palmbeachpost.com/sports/content/sports/epaper/2008/07/21/0721hialeah.html)

Brunetti said the conversation never covered a potential price. He said commitments will keep both men from a face-to-face meeting sooner and stressed that getting the state to restore Hialeah's racing permit is the key first step.

Brunetti said Hialeah losing its permit started the downward spiral of racing in South Florida, so restoring the permit is the industry's logical route toward recovery.

If the permit is restored, it would take about $25 million to $30 million to renovate hurricane-ravaged Hialeah for racing, Brunetti said.

Hialeah then could apply for specific racing dates. Minor said he has "no qualms" about going head-to-head against Gulfstream Park for control of South Florida's prime winter racing dollars.

Brunetti, in California for the annual opening of Del Mar racetrack, spoke with horsemen about Minor, whose horse, Fierce Wind, placed 10th in this year's Florida Derby, won by Big Brown.

[Andrew]

I would MUCH rather see Miami/Dade County spend $25-40 M on rebuliding Hialeah than spending $$$$ gazillion on the Marlins Baseball Stadium!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Artful]

oh--this would be great!
p.s.the Minors take nice care of their horses.

[Glimmerglass]

The BloodHorse has a bit more - 7-23 "Minor's Dream: Resurrect Hialeah Park
" (http://news.bloodhorse.com/article/46275.htm)

One of the most interesting elements:

“My goal is to make Hialeah look as good as it looked on its best day and then to do some innovative things to help bring the fans closer to the sport,” Minor said. “It will have the same natural beauty, but no one will have ever seen a track be as high tech in the way I will make Hialeah.”

Minor wants to resurrect Hialeah without relying on slot machines.

“I have no plans for anything other than a racetrack,” he said. “I hate slots. I think they are corrosive, and I think people are going after slots because they have given up hope they can make racing work. They are putting their fate in the hands of the government, and they don’t control the government. There is no crossover between people who play slots and people who race. They (slots) are the worst thing that has happened to our sport; they are utterly and completely corrosive.”

Here-here!!

[WhiteCamry]

Here-here!!

Second the motion!

[Glimmerglass]

If you love something, set it free ...

Alas I think Hialeah isn't going to rise again simply because the man who says he wants to see it return will never allow it to. Like a cat hoarder who thinks they are saving the cats by keeping them but oblivious they cannot offer a better life for the cat and in fact offers one that is doomed.


BloodHorse July 25 (http://news.bloodhorse.com/article/46308.htm)

Brunetti told Minor he “isn’t really interested in selling yet” because he still hopes to resurrect Hialeah himself.

“Under what conditions would I sell Hialeah? Probably none,” said Brunetti on July 25.

[98neigh]

the man's a moron (Brunetti).

[Andrew]

the man's a moron (Brunetti).


Tell us how you REALLY feel about Brunetti LOL!!!!

[Florida Fan]

I treasure my win pictures from Hialeah. I wish it would come back too. (sigh). Original surface there proved that an educated maintenance crew can keep tracks safe and even, and was very kind to the horses. They glided over it, unlike Calder which had the 3M base (replaced) and so many of the horses that raced there had sore back ends. Brunetti was difficult, but Kenny Noe was a control freak, and did nothing much to help Florida racing. Until that time, Florida vied with Ky. for leading state bred winners. He ruined the overall Florida ambiance that had existed for years. One of the last days of the meet, Monday, (dark day, no racing) we explored the old grandstand , west end,at Hialeah, found big rooms with tables, chairs, sofas, decorated walls, that must have held groups that came to the races.(never found out for sure) but the whole thing was so beautiful---like a movie in another era.

[Glimmerglass]

Miami Herald July 27, 2008 "New life for Hialeah Park?" (http://www.miamiherald.com/624/story/619334.html)

The same remarks from John Brunetti: he has no interest in selling the track

''Hialeah Park is a little tattered and torn but everyone always talks about how much they love it, what a wonderful and beautiful place it is,'' he said.

Damaged by two hurricanes, the track would need between $25 million and $50 million in renovations to make it usable again, he estimated.

Yet, he said, ''I'm not interested in selling it.'' Nor does he want a partner, he added.

Brunetti has talked for years about developing the property. He's had discussions with Hialeah city officials and has drawn up plans that would save some of the historic buildings but use most of the land for housing.

The article cites that Brunetti is a horse owner but has he actively raced horses in this decade?

I have to say it is very odd Minor hasn't toured the property. Realistically he really should see it first hand to know how it could be saved:

He has a great appreciation for the historic value of the Hialeah property, though he hasn't seen it in person.

''I've seen every picture on the Web, watched every movie that shows Hialeah Park. I've talked to many people who have seen the track fairly recently,'' he said. ``And I know it's getting more expensive every day to restore it. It's really bumming me out.''

Minor has said he is ''single-minded'' in his intent to save the horse-racing industry by making it more attractive to fans, a vision he has shared with his longtime friend, Bill Farish, chairman of the Breeders' Cup board of directors.

''He has a great passion to make the sport much more fan-based. He wants everyone walking through the turnstiles to get the same experience as a VIP,'' Farish said. ``For the average person, the daily racing form is like Greek. He wants to make it more understandable and build excitement.''

[Drvmb1ggl3]

Miami Herald July 27, 2008 "New life for Hialeah Park?" (http://www.miamiherald.com/624/story/619334.html)
Minor has said he is ''single-minded'' in his intent to save the horse-racing industry by making it more attractive to fans, a vision he has shared with his longtime friend, Bill Farish, chairman of the Breeders' Cup board of directors.

''He has a great passion to make the sport much more fan-based. He wants everyone walking through the turnstiles to get the same experience as a VIP,'' Farish said. ``For the average person, the daily racing form is like Greek. He wants to make it more understandable and build excitement.''



Minor should talk to Farish about making the Hialeah a permanent home for the BC. I think it would be a match made in heaven, and nobody else seems to want to host the BC anymore anyway. Do a version of the Dubai racing carnival. I think it would be sweet.

[Andrew]

Minor should talk to Farish about making the Hialeah a permanent home for the BC. I think it would be a match made in heaven, and nobody else seems to want to host the BC anymore anyway. Do a version of the Dubai racing carnival. I think it would be sweet.

AWSOME IDEA

[WhiteCamry]

Minor should talk to Farish about making the Hialeah a permanent home for the BC. I think it would be a match made in heaven, and nobody else seems to want to host the BC anymore anyway. Do a version of the Dubai racing carnival. I think it would be sweet.

It'd be a bit of a problem if a hurricane should happen by.

[Andrew]

It'd be a bit of a problem if a hurricane should happen by.

What hurricanes??? Andrew, Ivan, Katrina, Wilma
Tho Wilma was a real heffer so to speake..... 17 days w/o electirc... I'll deal with a hurricane any day than an earthquake and wild fires!!!!

We could move the bc dates to the first week in December! Hurricane season ends Nov 30th :-)))

[DMK]

It'd be a bit of a problem if a hurricane should happen by.

In late October? Global warming will have to step it up a pace before that is a serious concern. The season might officially end in November but I never met anyone who thought twice about it after September.

It's good to see that 20+ years later some things never change. Brunetti = Asshole

[Glimmerglass]

I think the concept of Hialeah, if it is saved and revived, being the home of the multi-day Breeders' Cup is a great one. The traveling show concept is hit or miss at best and as cited only a few tracks actually want to host the BC.

Hurricanes aside, Florida still is a destination for many people - fans as well as trainers from Europe, South Africa, Asia - want to go to [vs. going to say Illinois or Texas] for sun and a relaxed holiday feel. You aren't going to have a festival of racing if its held at Belmont let alone Monmouth.

Bill Finley 7-28-08 "Reviving Hialeah" (http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/horse/columns/story?columnist=finley_bill&id=3508604)

One thing he doesn't have to worry about is Brunetti's insistence that he will not sell Hialeah. The track has been closed since 2001 and there's no hope that the track will ever re-open under his stewardship. Nor will he be able to develop the property with Halsey lurking out there promising to restore racing. He'd be crazy not to take Minor's money.

Hialeah's biggest problem will be finding a place on the racing calendar to call its own. Back when Hialeah worked, it had control of the prime mid-winter dates, which now belong to Gulfstream Park Gulfstream obviously isn't going to give them up, which means Hialeah's only alternative may be to go head-to-head against the track to its north.

With the new Gulfstream facility so unpopular with fans and with its parent company Magna Entertainment in serious financial trouble that may not be as difficult as it once was.

"If they choose to put their dates on top of mine, so be it," Minor said. "They'll be going up against a beautifully refurbished Hialeah where the track is 100 percent attuned to the fan experience. I have competed with many companies in my life and I would not view this as one of the more significant competitive threats that I would face."

Still, it won't be that easy. There aren't enough horses in Florida to support two tracks and the established stables figure to stick with Gulfstream, at least initially. Finding horses to run at Hialeah could be a huge problem.

That's just one of many reasons Minor has his work cut out for him. Maybe bringing Hialeah back just can't be done. A bright guy with a lot of willpower says it can. Let's hope Halsey Minor is right.

[Florida Fan]

In response to conflicting dates----if the Hialeah purses are better----guess what?
Also, besides the limited stabling at Gulfstream due to development around there, Minor has another plus in making a go of it. There are lots of racehorses that come down here for the winter----the training center at Boynton is full because of the limited stabling at Gulfstream. Those horses ready to run would benefit from not having to ship in to run. Bottom line is (sigh) Brunetti is stubborn......and holds all the cards there.

[Glimmerglass]

Some of the latest below in regards to Minor meeting John Brunetti (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YXTN3h-b9nU) .. oh, I'm sorry, did I provide that link? ;)

One of the more positive aspects is the almost near collapse of Magna Entertainment who owns Gulfstream. There are rumblings that they could sell that track off - likely buyers would be real estate developers who would discontinue racing. So if that is gone then getting dates for Hialeah would be easier ...

BloodHorse 8-7-08 "Hialeah's Brunetti Meets With Minor" (http://news.bloodhorse.com/article/46492.htm?id=46492)

Hialeah Park owner John Brunetti and prospective buyer Halsey Minor held their first meeting Aug. 6, with Brunetti later saying “we will have another meeting to see if our common interests are strong enough to continue going forward.”

They have not picked a date for a second meeting, Brunetti said. He added that he and Minor did not discuss any terms of a possible sale of Hialeah Park, which has not held races since 2001.

“He (Minor) was as forthright as possible, and he has the same dream I have to re-open Hialeah,” said Brunetti, who has owned the track since 1977.

“We talked about how he might temper his idealism, in view of the realities of the political and economic situations,” Brunetti said.

“Mr. Minor is a successful businessman, and he has a love for racing,” [Hialeah Mayor Julio Robaina] said. “If he and John arrange financial terms for a sale, I would give him my full support to help make things happen.”

[Glimmerglass]

Another update: BloodHorse 8-21-08 "Minor Active in Pursuit of Hialeah Park" (http://news.bloodhorse.com/article/46686.htm)

Prospective Hialeah Park buyer Halsey Minor has sent consultants and accountants to examine the closed racetrack, and Minor and Hialeah owner John Brunetti say they are planning more talks on a possible sale.

But as of Aug. 20, Brunetti and Minor had not discussed a sales price for the historic track in Hialeah, Fla.

“I have sent John an operational plan, and I am getting estimates and valuations from my advisors,“ Minor said. Two teams of his advisors toured Hialeah Park between Aug. 14 and Aug. 20.

“We have made progress and have established an honest and constructive line of communication,” said Brunetti, who has owned Hialeah Park since 1977. “I still need to know more about the depth of his commitment for the time and money that would be involved.”

In 2004, Fortune magazine estimated Minor’s net worth at $286 million, from investments in CNET and other Internet and technology companies. Minor owns several Thoroughbreds including filly Dream Rush, who won four graded stakes as a 3-year old in 2007.

Minor and Brunetti have both estimated that it would cost at least $30 million to refurbish and rebuild the grandstand and the remainder of the property. Minor said he is prepared to spend that money and take about three years for a restoration.

Engineers believe that Hialeah’s grandstand would need extensive structural repairs but would not need to be torn down, Robaina said.

In 2007, Miami-Dade County’s appraised valuation of the 206-acre property was $17.1 million. Brunetti said he pays about $1.5 million a year in taxes and maintenance for the property, using cash flow from his real estate development business.

[Glimmerglass]

I hate to say it but the more I read and hear remarks from supposed savior Halsey Minor the more I think he's just a wealthy flake. Yep, I said it. Mr. Minor didn't care too much for my remarks (and said so) on another forum.

He seems to talk a great game about returning the sport to its roots but is somewhat disconnected to the problems 'here and now' of the sport. Worse he lacks detail with the actual nuts and bolts of how to operate a track. If sincerely a track owner and its management could survive simply by offering just racing and that's it does he not think that tracks like Laurel, Suffolk Downs and even Hawthorne would be rolling in clover?

He's been quoted a lot as of late with his challenge to the establishment and the leaders of this sport (or lack there of) and I applaude that. However it has to come backed up with corrections which would truly resolve problems.

I cannot stand slots either as they are unrelated in large part to racing. That said they are here and likely here to stay in many markets. Entrenched as they are they put tremendous pressure on other tracks in close proximity. So in the case of Maryland racing what do you do? Or even Florida? A place like Calder has had to try gimmics like concerts and family entertainment and the "Extreme Day" to get seats filled. Simply saying you'll offer great racing as cure all is as hollow as a cheap chocolate Easter Bunny!

Recent blog feedback from Minor to an article in the FtWorth/Dallas Star Telegram (http://startelegramsports.typepad.com/west_points/2008/09/time-to-change.html#comment-129739510)

youtube.com 'interview' with Minor on racing (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=az1yyzemSrg)

Worse it seem rather than him simply focusing on Hialeah and making that a viable return from the dead he appears to be interested in taking over multiple tracks - from the state. Yet all such actions without a sound business proposition as to why he'd do it better and with a great chance of survival and success. I think I'm a smart guy, been around horses for a long time, know a fair amount about the business side, and yet I wouldn't begin to say I know how to run a track in the slightest. Frankly I don't think Mr. Minor does either.

In fact I challenge him to read Not By A Long Shot and tell me how he'd fix a monopoly track like Suffolk in a major city to make it a major success story. If the answer is just to pump more money into the place I'd say a monkey could give me the same solution.

Speaking of money, it doesn't appear he's without some nagging problems there too:

Sep 4, 2008 "Sotheby's Sues "Peaceable Kingdom" Buyer for Payment" (http://www.artinfo.com/news/story/28483/sothebys-sues-peaceable-kingdom-buyer-for-payment/)

Sotheby's has sued Halsey Minor, founder of Cnet Networks and the purchaser of Edward Hicks's Peaceable Kingdom at auction, for the $16.8 million he owes the auction house, reports Bloomberg.

Sotheby's says that Minor originally told them he couldn't pay the sum because he was owed money himself, and that he was offered "generous payment terms."

June 2008 "Halsey Minor Takes Loss in Bel Air" (http://realestalker.blogspot.com/2008/06/halsey-minor-takes-loss-in-bel-air.html)

Back in March of 2006 a Bay Area based tech guru and net nerd named Halsey Minor dropped a spine tingling $20,000,000 to purchase a glitzy glass house on Sarbonne Road in one of the snazzier sections of seriously-swank Bel Air.

A few days ago, Mister Minor's big glass box in Bel Air hit the market with a $12,900,000 asking price. We can, however, speculate (SPECULATE, children, SPECULATE) that Mister Minor might have a cash flow problem (doubtful), there might be a structural issue or something geologic, or maybe mold has set in. OR, it could also be that Mister Minor is just real estate fickle and wants to quickly rid himself of a high maintenance mansion that requires tremendous sums of cash to keep looking meticulous.

Hmmmm .....

[Glimmerglass]

If anyone is interested in asking a question of Mr Minor take advantage of the opportunity with the upcoming Oct 2nd BloodHorse Talkin' Horses session with Halsey Minor (http://www.bloodhorse.com/talkinhorses/HM100208.asp); submit those questions now ...

Ray Paulick's article today (that is Ray posing next to the Hialeah fountain) (http://www.paulickreport.com/blog/monday-morning-quarterback-hialeah-back-to-hibernation/) indicates that the asking price John Brunetti wants for the track is so high that it isn't worth pursuing.

This month's profile of Minor in Portfolio magazine (Sep '08) (http://www.portfolio.com/executives/features/2008/09/18/CNET-Founder-Halsey-Minor-Profile) is not exactly flattering. Sounds like few folks who have dealt with him in the past think too highly of him today.

[Glimmerglass]

If you believe the hype it appears Minor is looking into acquire Magna tracks:

Paulick exclusive Oct 17, 2008 - "Minor goes publicon Magna Bid" (http://www.paulickreport.com/blog/minor-goes-public-on-magna-bid/)

While many, many will think he's the White Knight I don't know how much Minor really knows about racing .... I have to say on a very candid basis his replies recent during the Talkin Horses Q&A was exceptionally less then impressive. I don't think he knows how to run tracks and isn't forthcoming with any public replies as to his special secret for doing better then any track today.

Statement's like 'pure racing and the racing experience' are nice marketing fluff but nothing solid as to how to get more warm bodies into seats and interested in watching and wagering on race horses.

Read: Talkn' Horses: guest Halsey Minor October 2, 2008 (http://www.bloodhorse.com/TalkinHorses/HM100208.asp)

[Glimmerglass]

Not to beat a dead horse but another article on Halsey Minor from his hometown of Charlottesville, VA (http://www.readthehook.com/stories/2008/11/27/COVER-amalg.aspx) - Nov 27, 2008.

It doesn't appear that Mr. Minor's financial troubles and battles with a lot of folks (well outside of racing) have abated. From my little old view I don't think he's the best 'white knight' to hang the hopes of Hialeah's revival or any race track for that matter.

I did like (in an amusing way) his internet posted counter rant on the aforementioned on-line article tied to a hotel venture:

Lastly (and I mean lastly), I don't give a damn if you find one prurient article about me interesting or the whole bunch (there are actually nice ones too just not referenced here by the way).

I want to build a nice, fun hotel in my home town. If I go broke while building it (technically not possible since the bank is now funding from here on out) then i guess something i wanted to do won't happen the way i wanted it to happen.

I don't expect issues with the hotel but i am not going to be a hostage to its success. Boutique hotels make very little money and are usually a labor of love. This was suppose to be fun but I am a little appalled at how some people in my own home town ride me endlessly for doing something that I thought would add to the city and the Historic Downtown Area.

Anyway, these are my final words on the matter. Bitch, moan, scream, ask to "see the money", I don't care. I am not building it for you but the other 98 percent who enjoy something new and don't live their lives to witness the failure of others.

Now you can go ahead and resume your pointless bitching and speculation. I have a hotel to build.

[Calico]

Quarter Horse racing at Hialeah? http://racing.aqha.com/racing/dyn_content.aspx?FQD=http://www.aqha.com/aqharacing.com/news/08stories/08hialeahpark.html]Quarter Horse racing at Hialeah

Considering the allegations in this thread, this is interesting news indeed.

HIALEAH PARK APPLIES FOR QUARTER HORSE RACING PERMIT

December 23, 2008 - Hialeah Park, near Miami, Florida, has applied for a Quarter Horse racing license, according to an article by the Miami Herald.

The track, which has been shuttered since 2001, hopes to conduct Quarter Horse racing and card games. Hialeah city officials are expected to approve a measure tonight supporting the plan. Owner John Brunetti plans to submit an application to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation to run the games.

Hialeah Park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

[Glimmerglass]

Baltimore Sun 1-13-09 "Entrepreneur wants to build slots casino in Arundel" (http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/horseracing/bal-md.slots13jan13,0,2611387.story)

Excerpt

A wealthy entrepreneur who denounced slot machines as the "cancer" of the horse-racing industry now wants to build a slots casino in Anne Arundel County - as a cure for Maryland's ailing racetracks.

Halsey Minor said in an interview yesterday that he still objects to installing slots at tracks and instead wants to develop a standalone casino with the proceeds funding his self-styled crusade to save horse racing.

Racing should avoid this guy like the plague.

[Glimmerglass]

Ah, why look ... Halsey "I'll sue you" Minor has filed suit in Miami County (FL) against Haileah Inc./Bal Bay Realty/City of Hialeah

Paulick Report: Lawsuit filed Feb 9, 2009 (pdf) (http://www.paulickreport.com/wp-content/uploads/image/pdfs/complaint%20minorbrunetti.pdf)

Of course Minor's wealth today - one time significant - is doubtful which may be why he didn't bid on the MD Slots franchise as he said he would:

VA's The Hook Feb 6, 2009 "Minor broke? Christie’s, Merrill say he’s out of cash" (http://www.readthehook.com/blog/index.php/2009/02/06/minor-broke-christies-alleges-hes-out-of-cash-in-lawsuit/)

Is Halsey Minor, the Charlottesville native, UVA alum, and founder of Internet media company CNET who once had an estimated net worth of more than $350 million, out of money? That’s what two new lawsuits are alleging.

London auction house Christie’s and New York investment bank Merrill Lynch are both alleging that Minor has run out of cash.

Lawsuit (PDF) ML Private Finance LLC plaintiff vs. Halsey McLean Minor (et al) filed 12/28/08 - US Dstrct Court of NY (http://www.readthehook.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/merrilllynchsueshalseyminor.pdf)

[Glimmerglass]

Miami Herald Feb 16, 2009 "Lawsuit latest shot at reviving bid for Hialeah Park horse racetrack" (http://www.miamiherald.com/460/story/906143-p2.html)

Now Minor is questioning whether Brunetti has the legal right to hang onto Hialeah Park.

Brunetti, who took control of the track in 1978, agreed to pay $12.3 million for it, according to a 1976 opinion by the state attorney general's office.

The city of Hialeah, which put up $9 million in loans that Brunetti would repay over 20 years, retained title to the property, a summary of the deal in the opinion says. Once Brunetti paid off the loans, the city would cede him title to the racetrack for $100.

Minor's lawsuit contends that the agreement between the city and Brunetti's holding company had conditions, however -- that Brunetti maintain a valid racing license, conduct races and keep up the property through the duration of the agreement, which was to conclude Jan. 31, 2008.

The suit argues Brunetti defaulted on the agreement when he suspended racing and lost his license, and the city should have taken over the property. The point of the city's financial assistance, the suit argues, was to keep the racetrack running because of its economic and historic importance to Hialeah.

In 2004, the city deeded the property to Brunetti's company, after he paid off his obligation, Hialeah City Attorney Bill Grodnik said. He said Hialeah owned the racetrack ``in name only.''

Martinez said the city followed the agreement to the letter.

''That's the way it was in the agreement, and that's the way it was done,'' said Martinez, who was mayor at the time of the transfer.

As an aside - Minor's mare 'Dream Rush' retired (http://www.bloodhorse.com/NOW/News/BreedingNews/49233.aspx)

Halsey Minor bought Dream Rush for $3.3 million at the 2007 Fasig-Tipton Kentucky November mixed sale through D. Easter, agent.

Dream Rush won or placed in 13 of 16 races and earned $779,364. She experienced her best year at 3 in 2007 when racing for a partnership that included West Point Thoroughbreds.

[Glimmerglass]

While Hialeah has finally made a comeback of sorts - and 28,000 + showed up on opening day - it looks like the woes (and excuses) continue with the once-time would be suitor, H. Minor:

The Hook (C'ville) 12-1-09 "Courthouse steps: Minor facing million-dollar foreclosure " (http://www.readthehook.com/blog/index.php/2009/12/01/courthouse-steps-minor-facing-million-dollar-foreclosure/)

excerpt

Fox Ridge Farm. A 205-acre spread with a brick mansion, spectacular Blue Ridge views, and one of Albemarle’s largest equestrian barns, the Farm will be sold December 21 on the steps of the county courthouse— unless Minor’s Fox Ridge Farms Holdings LLC makes good on the loan he put against the Free Union-area property earlier this year.

[snip]

More recently, however, Minor has faced three multi-million-dollar creditor actions including an October federal court’s summary judgment in favor of Merrill Lynch Private Finance. He has angrily denied any cash-flow problems and traced the lawsuits to a sort of panic mentality among creditors. Could Fox Ridge’s foreclosure be part of that?

Two days before Thanksgiving, lawyers for Merrill Lynch issued notice that they intend to collect legal fees on top of the court’s $21.6 million award. And who holds the first deed of trust on Fox Ridge? It’s First Republic Bank, a San Francisco-based company owned by none other than Minor’s nemesis, Merrill Lynch.

You can fool some of the people some of the time ....

[LKF]

Opening day was impressive - it was a good turn out and I heard some folks thought the turnout was more around 30K+. Being sentimental, it made our barn hopeful. We're having a pretty good meet so far.

[AnotherRound]

I've enjoyed this thread. My mare, Here's Suds (1963 ch mare) Winnings: 15 Starts: 2 - 0 - 3, $4,160 1966 age 3 - 15 starts with 2 1ST place and 3 3rd place.) ran her races at Hialeah - according to her previous owner, who picked her up from off the track.

She was bred by Mrs. Francis G. Rust. Does anyone here know anything about this woman and her breeding endeavors?

[danceronice]

Looking way back at page one....if anyone wondered about the flamingoes, they're fine. They're a banded breeding flock and managed--we had some of their offspring at Zoo New England (my boss when I was at ZNE is a zoo-world-reknowned bird guy. I asked. And he didn't even find it an odd question.)

[Glimmerglass]

Not so sure that this isn't timed to take advantage of Calder having problems with equine herpes quarantine actions and accordingly creating a racing void in that region.

BloodHorse 12-4-09 "Hialeah Asks to Run Thoroughbreds" (http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/54264/hialeah-asks-to-run-thoroughbreds?source=rss)

In letters it sent Dec. 1, Hialeah Park is asking other pari-mutuels in the Miami-Fort Lauderdale market for permission to start running Thoroughbred races during its Quarter Horse meet that extends through next Feb. 2.

Those substitute Thoroughbred races are not permitted for Hialeah’s meet under current Florida laws, according to the Florida Division of Pari-Mutuel Wagering. Marc Dunbar, an attorney who teaches gaming law at Florida State University, said he agrees with that regulatory agency’s interpretation.

But Brunetti said he believes two provisions of Florida’s pari-mutuel law are “contradictory,” and that he plans to use one provision to pursue his request to start running Thoroughbred races. He said he and his attorneys had not determined whether and how they might make a request to the Florida DPMW.

Hialeah’s last Thoroughbred meet was in 2001. The track was closed until it began its initial Quarter Horse meet Nov. 28.

Brunetti said Thoroughbred races could help Hialeah Park economically. He noted that handle has been “disappointing” during the first four days of the Quarter Horse meet, when fields have been small because some horses are still being shipped from other states.

[Barnfairy]

Okay. Until now I've resisted but I can hold out no longer.

Every time Hialeah comes up in the headlines or this thread gets bumped up I think of this (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=miWfaUPGG88).

Seriously. Every time.

I'm sorry. :uhoh: (Does anybody even play jai alai anymore? There was a time that could get you killed up around here.... :uhoh: :eek: :uhoh: )

I was wondering how long it would be before they tried to get the TBs there. I don't know if they're taking advantage of the quarantine situation at Calder or not, but asking to run TBs surprises me not at all.

[Glimmerglass]

I'm sorry. :uhoh: (Does anybody even play jai alai anymore? There was a time that could get you killed up around here.... :uhoh: :eek: :uhoh: )

Did you see this season of Mad Men? One of the clients was a wealthy playboy heir who wanted the firm to create a whole ad campaign for jai-alai and get it aired on tv. He envisioned the sport being the next big thing.

Details here from the MM blog (http://blogs.amctv.com/mad-men/2009/09/jai-alai.php)

As for the sport today, if this story is a barometer, it doesn't bode well: Orlando: Final tournament planned at fronton before closing (http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/seminole/os-jai-alai-final,0,4784478.story)

Orlando Jai-Alai, set to close in late December, will hold one last tournament, its general manager said this week. On Dec. 11 and 12, players from as far away as Spain will come to the fronton to play the game, in which players whip balls across a court with baskets attached at the wrist. ... Nearly 48 years old, the fronton has watched business decline for years. Its closure was announced in October.

Today, Miami and Dania Beach in Florida remain the only cities with full-time open frontons in the United States.

In the world of obscure sports this is one in the mix for the title. Me thinks there are likely overly-tanned Miami Vice-like guys working it in bars claiming to be a jai alai champion - although would that even work as a pick up scheme? I'd think dogsled champion might register more of a reaction.

[Glimmerglass]

Btw - the "Secretariat", if you will, of the jai alai sport: Francisco Churruca* - "the best jai alai player in the world" (http://rsbassociates.home.mindspring.com/si/si650329.htm) per Sports Illustrated

Retired in 1983

*his real name in Spanish fashion was much longer: Francisco Maria Churruca Iriondo Azpiazu Alcorta, but he went by "Patxi".

Perhaps giving a better idea of the sport being eclipsed is this New York Times article from 1993 (http://www.nytimes.com/1993/03/16/nyregion/our-towns-a-fast-paced-sport-s-fast-paced-demise.html) citing the closing of the Bridgeport (CT) Jai Alai facility. What was replacing it? A greyhound track. Ouch.

[MunchkinsMom]

They still have jai alai here in Ocala:

http://www.jai-alai.info/ocala-jai-alai.html

I have not been to it however. Went to the one in Hartford CT many moons ago when I lived there, because it was a novelty and the only legal place to gamble, it got a good turnout for a while.

The fronton here in Ocala also has OTB and a poker room.