Racing groups pitch betting machines

Racing groups are urging an Idaho commission to sign off on a last-ditch effort to save their faltering industry after failing to convince the Legislature to reinstate lucrative betting machines known as instant racing terminals.

John Sheldon, the operator of Les Bois, Idaho’s largest horse racing track, told state racing commissioners Wednesday that they have the authority to allow tracks to use the terminals.

Instant horse racing allows bettors to place wagers on prior horse races that are videotaped with no identifiable information about the horses or results.

The terminals have spinning wheels, sounds and animations that mimic slot machines/ Kimberlee Kruesi , Associated Press. More here.