Eureka Downs is no longer a quiet project on the horizon—it is a racetrack in motion. General Manager Mike Weiss says the transformation is unmistakable. “We are 1,000% moving forward,” he emphasizes. “We are in a whole different dimension both physically and organizationally from when we started this project.”
That momentum is being felt beyond Greenwood County. “Locally and nationally, we are being recognized as a legitimate racetrack coming on the scene,” Weiss notes. “Vendors are reaching out to us regularly. Anyone familiar with the venue can clearly see things are happening, and it’s an exciting time knowing live racing is coming soon.”
When asked what the most significant milestone is yet: “Without a doubt, it’s the resurfacing of the track,” Weiss says. “Andale Construction is doing a great job. Every day, even in the rain, they’re out there with large earth-moving equipment.”
He describes the work with admiration: “They’ve been digging out the pond, digging down to sub-soil layers, moving and leveling and widening the south turn. They’re getting ready to infuse special materials that will stabilize the sub-soil structure and assist in drainage. They are macro-precision focused, and I’m confident this will be a solid, safe, high-performing track that will endure.”
Safety remains the guiding principle behind every decision. “Safety of horses and jockeys is at the forefront of every consideration,” Weiss says. One major improvement is the widening of the south turn and the relocation of the finish line 55 yards to the north. “This will result in more time running up to the first turn as well as more time to pull up after the finish. It just makes sense.”
Because the finish line will no longer sit directly in front of the grandstands, Eureka Downs is investing in modern technology to enhance visibility. “We’ll accommodate with a big high-quality video board for live action and odds,” Weiss explains. “The announcer and stewards will have state-ofthe- art technology, including two elevated pan cameras so they can watch from all angles.”
Additional safety upgrades include a custom- built Duralock rail system. “It’s a safety running rail with smooth surfaces and edges, and it flexes on impact,” Weiss says. “The other important addition is a wireless, solar-powered loose-horse warning system like they use at Santa Anita and Gulfstream. Why in little Eureka? Because we are taking safety seriously.”
Inside the facility, the racing offices and jockeys’ quarters have undergone a full remodel. “A local contractor completely gutted them,” Weiss says. “Plumbing, electrical, internet—everything was updated to ensure functionality. We’re now planning furniture, equipment, TVs, desks, and computers. We should have a lot of that done by next month.”
The test barn and guard shack are also on schedule. Dr. Harold Garner, overseeing that portion, reports that the gravel pad for the guard shack and concrete slab for the test barn are complete and the buildings are ready to be placed once heavy equipment clears the track area. “I anticipate it will be early in July,” Garner says.
Stall barns are progressing as well. “We have 140 stalls ready,” Weiss says. “Some barns were completely cleaned up, some had stall doors rebuilt, and all were stripped down and re-screened for a clean, level cushion. We’d like to add portable stalls this year, but that may not come to fruition.”
Inside the clubhouse and grandstands, the facility remains in strong shape thanks to its ongoing use as a community event center. “That’s the least of my concerns,” Weiss says. “The community takes pride in this building and regularly uses it. The Braden Room was recently remodeled. There are a few more modernizations that will come in time and cosmetic upgrades in the future. For now, we’ll add TVs, tellers, and everything needed for the racing fan experience, but other infrastructure needs are of higher priority at this time.”
Food and beverage planning is also progressing, with outreach underway to local establishments capable of supporting raceday crowds. Key racing roles—such as announcer, paddock judge, horse identifier, race secretary, starter crew, and valets— are being identified now, with department heads expected soon after. Local workers will be needed for concessions, parking, mutuels, janitorial services, and maintenance. Partnerships with the Sheriff’s Office and EMT services are already in motion.
“Having skilled and experienced staff to run this like a well-oiled machine will be important,” he says. “I plan to have the key roles secured in the next month.”
Locals will be needed for concessions, parking, mutuels, janitorial work, and maintenance.
“Right now, if anyone has interest in a job, we’re telling them to send us their resume and a letter of interest,” Weiss adds.
One challenge still looming is temporary housing. With a six- to eight-week race meet and many industry professionals traveling with families, Eureka’s limited lodging options pose a hurdle.
Weiss quips, “This community has a lot to offer- except for housing.” He anticipates the need to offer higher pay or housing assistance and is compiling a list of lodging options in surrounding communities. “Without many motel rooms, limited RV hookups and no mobile home park, we must send staff, officials and horsemen to nearby communities. That will be true for our spectators, too.”
When asked what he is most excited about, despite the complexities, Weiss is clearly energized by what’s ahead. “Opening Day at the Races... of course I’m going to be most nervous about that too,” he admits. “My hope is that the first day is orchestrated seamlessly and that spectators absolutely love it. We want them to come back soon.”
Beyond the grandstands, Weiss sees broader economic potential. “I’m excited to bring an economic boost to Eureka, but really for the whole state of Kansas,” he says. “The growth potential for agriculture—breeding farms, hay and grain needs, veterinary care— should be evident by next year.”
With the first race meet approaching, beginning September 26 through November 1, running Saturdays and Sundays, Weiss believes the momentum will only build. “We get our first race meet going, with new promotions and ideas to generate interest, and folks will want to get into Kansas racing and the Kansas-bred program,” he says. “I anticipate growing interest each year. This is just the beginning.”
