Fargo track looking to expand horse racing meet

FARGO, N.D. (AP) — The North Dakota Horse Park in Fargo, N.D., is planning a three-week racing season in July, its longest meet in five years.

On Feb. 28, the state racing commission approved $115,000 in promotional funds for the Fargo track and an equal amount to the Chippewa Downs track in Belcourt.

State racing director Gunner laCour says he hopes to ultimately award $180,000 for promotions to the Fargo track and $150,000 to the Belcourt facility. LaCour says the goal is for each track to receive $80,000 apiece in purse money.

LaCour tells The Associated Press that the funding is “subject to availability of funds and continuing review of budgets.” Money for the live horse racing comes from taxes on off-track betting in North Dakota.

The Fargo track had a three-day meet last year.