The Arlington Race Track, located in Arlington Heights, Illinois, has been a long-time favorite of horse racing fans in the Chicago area. In recent years, however, the track has seen a decrease in attendance and revenue and has been struggling to stay afloat. In 2019, it was announced that the track had been purchased by the Chicago Bears, the city’s beloved NFL team. This article will explore the reasons behind the purchase, how the Bears plan to use the track, and how the local community has responded to the news.
Background
The Arlington Race Track was opened in 1927 by the Arlington Park Racetrack Company and has been a fixture of the Chicago area ever since. Over the years, the track has hosted a variety of horse racing events, from Triple Crown races to the Arlington Million. In recent years, however, the track has seen a decrease in attendance and revenue. As a result, in 2018, the track’s owner, Churchill Downs Inc., announced that the track would be put up for sale.
Bears’ Purchase
In June 2019, it was announced that the Chicago Bears had reached an agreement to purchase the Arlington Race Track. The purchase price was not disclosed, but it was reported to be in the range of $20-30 million. The Bears plan to use the track as a practice facility and team headquarters. The team also plans to explore other potential uses of the track, such as hosting special events and concerts.
Reasons Behind the Purchase
The Bears’ purchase of the Arlington Race Track makes sense for a number of reasons. First and foremost, it provides the team with a practice facility and team headquarters that are close to the city and easily accessible. Additionally, the track is large enough to accommodate the size of the team and its staff. Finally, the track could also be used to host special events and concerts, providing an additional source of revenue for the team.
Benefits to the Community
The Bears’ purchase of the Arlington Race Track is not only beneficial to the team, but to the local community as well. First, the purchase provides a much-needed economic boost to the area. The team plans to invest in the track and the surrounding area, which is expected to create jobs and attract additional businesses. Additionally, the track will remain open to the public, providing a space for local residents to enjoy horse racing.
Reaction from Fans
The reaction from fans to the Bears’ purchase of the Arlington Race Track has been overwhelmingly positive. Many fans are excited at the prospect of having a team headquarters and practice facility close to the city. Additionally, fans are looking forward to the potential for special events and concerts at the track. Finally, fans are relieved that the track will remain open to the public, ensuring that horse racing will continue to be a part of the local community.
Reaction from Horse Racing Community
The reaction from the horse racing community has been mixed. On one hand, the sale of the track has provided a much-needed financial boost to the industry. On the other hand, some members of the horse racing community are concerned that the Bears’ plans for the track could have a negative impact on the sport. For example, they fear that the team’s plans to host special events and concerts could interfere with horse racing events.
Impact on Other Sports
The Bears’ purchase of the Arlington Race Track could also have an impact on other sports in the area. For example, the acquisition of the track could mean that the Bears will be more likely to host events at the track, such as football and soccer games. This could lead to additional revenue for the team and could also benefit local businesses and organizations.
Plans for the Future
The Bears have not yet announced any specific plans for the future of the Arlington Race Track. However, the team has stated that they plan to invest in the track and the surrounding area. Additionally, they plan to explore potential uses of the track, such as hosting special events and concerts.
Conclusion
The Bears’ purchase of the Arlington Race Track is a smart move for the team and the local community. The track provides the team with a practice facility and team headquarters that are close to the city, and the acquisition of the track provides a much-needed economic boost to the area. Additionally, the track will remain open to the public, ensuring that horse racing will continue to be a part of the local community. Finally, the Bears’ plans to explore potential uses of the track, such as hosting special events and concerts, could provide an additional source of revenue for the team and the local community.
Overall, the Bears’ purchase of the Arlington Race Track is a win-win for everyone involved.