Hastings Exposition and Racing President Cynthia Smith.

© KSNB/ Channel 4

HASTINGS, NE–APRIL 23, 2024–For the first time in nearly five years, Nebraska Racing and Gaming organized two Quarter Horse races last week at the Adams County Fairgrounds' Fairplay Park.

The horses ran 350 yards, and Hastings Exposition President, Cynthia Smith called this the drag race of horse racing.

In Nebraska, there are approximately 80,000 quarter horses and 14,000 owners.

Smith also said when the casino opens in Ogallala, it will increase purse money.

Smith said racing and gaming go hand-in-hand because increased purse money is also an investment in agriculture and can increase interest in the sport. They also educated attendees about the sport.

"We’re able to answer any questions they have about breeding," Smith told Leroy Triggs with the local channel 4 station KSNB. "What are the opportunities if they wanted to get in the industry, how can (they) do that. How can they get in by claiming a horse, which is if you have a claiming race, it’s kind of like buying a horse. You can come and buy a quarter horse and raise it and race it."

Smith said buying and raising a Quarter Horse is the best way to get into the industry because most horses are ready to race at the selling point.

Races will be held yearly in Hastings while they await the casino and racetrack in Ogallala to open. According to Nebraska Racing and Gaming, Hastings Exposition is required to hold one day of racing per year to retain its racing and gaming license.

In recent years, Hastings Exposition attempted to secure a location for a racino in North Hastings, but plans were rejected.