Golden Hare Takes To The Track

The Cherokee Casino is betting on big-name horses to bring in big business.  The Cherokee's racino in Claremore brought in Golden Hare, the winningest horse in the country on Monday.  News On 6 anchor Jennifer Loren reports the famous steed lured racing fans from all over the state.  And, that's something racino managers hope becomes a trend.

When it comes to horse racing, Oklahoma may not be in the lead, but local casinos are definitely rounding the bend.

"We're building it every year. I mean every year we're stepping up a little better and getting more quality horses and trainers," said Will Rogers Downs Director of Racing Kelly Cathey.

At Will Rogers Downs in Claremore, the Cherokees say they've seen attendance numbers rise year after year.

"I'm not a golfer. I'm not a fisherman. I just like horses," said racing fan Chuck Dobbins.

Will Rogers Downs is Chuck Dobbins' home track.

A self-proclaimed horse racing hobbyist, Chuck says he's watched the track go through plenty of ups and downs since it first opened decades ago.

"And, I have watched it grow and they're just doing super right now," said Chuck Dobbins.

Helping Will Rogers Downs in their attempt to inch ahead of the pack are horses like Golden Hare.

Golden Hare is the winningest horse in North America after 14 wins last year.  After his race at Will Rogers Downs, Golden Hare took yet another spin in the winner's circle.  And, the racino took it with him.

"So, it was a great deal to get him here and it's a compliment to how our track is growing every year," added the track's Kelly Cathey.

Monday's race was Golden Hare's first of the season.  But, it was his seventh straight win in a six-furlong allowance.