Suffolk Downs

In Spring 2007, a Coastal Development affiliate, became the largest shareholder in Sterling Suffolk Downs, a historic thoroughbred racetrack in Boston, Massachusetts. Suffolk Downs has had a rich history in thoroughbred racing hosting some of thoroughbred racing's greatest champions, including Triple Crown winners War Admiral, Whirlaway and Assault, and other greats such as Seabiscuit, John Henry and Cigar. In addition to these legendary horses, Hall of Fame jockeys George Woolf, Johnny Longden, Eddie Arcaro, Chris McCarron, Angel Cordero and Jerry Bailey have all competed at the East Boston oval. Fields' vision is to return this historic track to its former glory.

In partnership with Vornado Realty Trust (www.vno.com) and Boston Culinary Group (www.bostonculinarygroup.com), Richard Fields has begun major enhancements and revitalization efforts at the track. As a demonstration of their dedication and commitment to Suffolk Downs, the partners announced the return of the Massachusetts Handicap, the marquis racing event of the season. The 65th edition of the MassCap, held September 22, 2007, drew a crowd of over 19,000 fans to the track.

Under Fields' direction, the facility and racing product has since received a number of improvements, including increased purses, new marketing programs and renovations to the building and backstretch area. The results of these efforts in 2007 were a 22% increase in live racing attendance, a 14% increase in on-track handle, and a 15% increase in concession sales.

Suffolk Downs remains an important member of the Boston Community both economically and culturally. An estimated 2,334 workers statewide are employed in jobs related to the horse industry at Suffolk Downs, including helping on the racetrack backstretch, boarding and training farms, veterinary, breeding and related agribusiness, pari-mutuel tellers, and office and civic positions. Approximately, 1,797 of these people work at the track itself. Additionally, there are about 500 owners of racehorses stabled at Suffolk Downs.

Suffolk Downs has infused over $24 million into the local economy through capital improvements since 1992.

To read about William Mulrow, Chairman of Sterling Suffolk Downs, click here.

To learn more about Suffolk Downs please visit: www.SuffolkDowns.com