Reno Complex Takes Gamble On Track Meet Eldorado Posts Odds On Eight Events For Tonight’s Stop On Grand Prix Tour
Tired of arguing about who can run faster, jump higher or throw farthest? Now you can put your money where your mouth is, at least at the Reno Air Games.
The Eldorado Hotel & Casino, one of the meet’s sponsors along with Reno Air, is posting odds on those competing in five men’s and three women’s events tonight.
“It’s a fun little side deal. It creates some interest in the event,” Gene Carano, Eldorado vice president and general manager, said Thursday.
“We’re just experimenting with this. Basically, it’s new to us. It’s promotional for us and for the track and field to give it some publicity,” he said.
John Mansoor, meet director and executive director of the Pacific Association of USA Track & Field, said it was decided to allow betting when the event was set up in July.
“I thought it would bring excitement to the casual fan. I thought we would take advantage of a gambling state. I approached various casinos about getting involved as a sponsor. Eldorado was the one that decided to sponsor it and do the sports book,” he said.
“There’s been a lot of excitement - among insiders, coaches, agents, athletes and fans. They definitely think it’s the right thing to do.”
Ollan Cassell, executive director of USA Track & Field, said posting a betting line on track and field might be a rarity in this country, but is not unique.
“The Brits always had odds on the Olympic Games. Harrod’s Casino in London offered regular betting on the Olympics,” he said.
Cassell, an Olympic gold medalist on the 1964 1,600-meter relay team, said when he was running, people would tell him they had bet on him through Las Vegas.
Competitors, who aren’t barred from betting on themselves, are looking forward to the opportunity.
Dennis Mitchell is a 4-1 underdog in the 50, with Jon Drummond and Calvin Smith behind Henry Neal, who is 2-1. A successful bettor who placed $10 on Mitchell would win $40 plus the bet. Ten dollars on Neal would pay $20, plus the bet.
“I’m looking at making somebody some money. So if you’ve got an extra $5, try to put it on me,” Mitchell said.
Mitchell said he was betting on himself, as is Chryste Gaines, a 10-1 long shot behind Gwen Torrence in the 50 meters.
The meet at the Livestock Events Center is the second of five events of the indoor Grand Prix, which began last weekend with the Millrose Games in New York. Other stops are in Cleveland, Fairfax, Va., and Atlanta.
Other competitors include Jackie Joyner-Kersee in the women’s 50-meter hurdles, Greg Foster in the men’s 50-meter hurdles and Michael Johnson in the men’s 400 meters. All are favorites.