Today, the National Thoroughbred League (NTL) reported that the final event in its three-part 2024 NTL Cup Series—the Championship Cup, won by Julius “Dr. J” Erving’s Philadelphia Stallions—exceeded the highest numbers seen by both Turf Paradise and The NTL in recent memory.
The nine-race event, which took place at Turf Paradise in Phoenix ahead of the Fiesta Bowl, saw the track’s largest attendance of its meet — and saw $3.1 million in total bets placed, with the three NTL Championship races alone responsible for over $1.7 million in wagers. This was the largest handle for Turf Paradise this decade, and combined with betting carryovers for the following day, resulted in the largest betting totals for Turf Paradise this century.
The turnout and participation highlights how this first-of-its-kind racing league is adding a new dynamic element to the sport and drawing in fans excited to experience exceptional races and a weekend of food, fashion and fun, akin to the pomp and circumstance surrounding events like the Kentucky Derby or Formula 1 races.
Erving, an investor in the league and co-owner of its Philadelphia Stallions franchise, hosted an exclusive golf invitational the afternoon before the race. He was also on hand for an exclusive meet and greet experience during the races and popped Champagne in the Winner’s Circle to celebrate the Stallions victory. In addition to Erving, over a dozen former athletes were in attendance.
One of the biggest racing days in Phoenix history featured thrilling NTL races, including stake races named after Boise State and Penn State, and a garden with beer, food, and music. In keeping with the college football theme, the grass in front of the toteboard was painted blue in honor of Boise State.
The NTL–which recently added two-time NFL MVP and Baltimore Ravens superstar quarterback Lamar Jackson to its team owner ranks, joining prominent public figures like Dr. J, Tanya Tucker, Nelly, Rick Ross, Kayvon Thibodeaux and Moira Forbes along with other private investors–now sets its sights on the 2025 season where the league looks to continue delivering competitive races and compelling experiences.
“From day one the National Thoroughbred League has set out to create a new exciting format that can serve as a catalyst to both engage diehard racing fans and bring interested newcomers into the fold of this tremendous sport,” said Bob Daugherty, co-Founder of the NTL. “The results of this past weekend and the excitement throughout this past season show that the NTL is already well on our way to delivering on that vision. We’re driving people to the track and providing them with engaging experiences that make them more compelled to participate in the action and exhilaration of one of our country’s most storied sports.”
“The NTL is bringing a new dynamic to horseracing and new fans to the sport itself,” said Turf Paradise General Manager Vince Francia. “Turf Paradise is proud to work with this dynamic organization.”
This press release has not been edited by BloodHorse. If there are any questions please contact the organization that produced the release.
