Do you remember the golden days of greyhound racing in Colorado? Mile High Kennel Club in Commerce City was the place to be, attracting thousands of spectators and earning the nickname “The Big Store.” The sport thrived in the 1980s, with a year-round calendar filled with thrilling races and staggering amounts of money wagered. However, as the state embraced other forms of entertainment like casinos and professional sports, the popularity of greyhound racing dwindled. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore the rise and fall of this beloved sport.
The Glory Days
In its prime, Mile High Kennel Club was the epitome of excitement. Pari-mutuel handles soared, reaching staggering amounts like $1 million on closing nights. The track even surpassed this milestone on several occasions, solidifying its position as a leader in the industry. Greyhound racing, often referred to as “The Sport of Queens,” captivated Colorado residents for decades. It became a beloved pastime, rivaling minor-league baseball and horse racing as the go-to entertainment option.
The racing season at Mile High Kennel Club, which opened in 1949, ran from early June to late August. The track attracted dignitaries, from governors to mayors, who had their own boxes in the grandstand. It was the perfect place for a night out, combining the thrill of races with fine dining experiences.
The Decline
The decline of greyhound racing in Colorado can be attributed to a series of factors. The introduction of the state lottery in 1983 and casino gambling in 1991 provided alternative forms of gambling, diverting attention and funds away from the tracks. Additionally, the arrival of professional sports teams like the Rockies and Avalanche in the 1990s offered new entertainment options, capturing the hearts of Colorado sports enthusiasts.
As a result, the last race at Mile High was held on June 28, 2008, marking the end of an era. Three other tracks in the area had closed in the preceding years, leaving a void in the sporting landscape of Colorado. The reasons for this decline are varied and complex, with many speculating about the causes. Nonetheless, the legacy of Mile High and other tracks lives on in the memories of those who experienced the thrill of greyhound racing.
A Sporting Legacy
The impact of greyhound racing in Colorado cannot be understated. It provided an outlet for the post-World War II generation to let loose and have fun. Race nights became memorable events, with the sound of a bell signaling the close of the mutuel windows, and the announcement of “Here Comes Rusty” capturing everyone’s attention. Mechanical lures, affectionately called rabbits, added to the excitement, and each track had its own iconic lure.
The track was also home to a colorful cast of characters, from information sharers like Eddie McLaughlin, Bill Saul, and Al Flohr to notable figures like Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Lattner, who served as an associate judge. The memories of these individuals and the experiences they created are etched into the hearts of those who were part of the racing community.
Remembering the Past
Though greyhound racing may be a thing of the past, its impact lives on. Mile High Kennel Club and other tracks held a special place in the hearts of Colorado residents. Even today, people reminisce about the excitement and wish that the dogs were still running. The legacy of “The Big Store” and the joy it brought to thousands of people will never be forgotten.
So let us raise a toast to the glory days of greyhound racing in Colorado, a time when the roar of the crowd and the thundering paws of the racing dogs filled the air. For more captivating stories and nostalgic moments, visit HOT NEWS DAY, your go-to source for the juiciest secrets of yesteryears.
Irv Moss: 303 954-1296 or [email protected]
