Item 1. Business
Item 1. BUSINESS
Available Information
The SEC maintains a website at http://www.sec.gov that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers, including Canterbury Park Holding Corporation, that file electronically with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The Company files annual reports, quarterly reports, proxy statements, and other documents with the SEC under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Exchange Act).
We also make available free of charge through our website (www.canterburypark.com) the reports and other documents that we file with the SEC, including the Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, and, if applicable, amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to the Exchange Act as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with, or furnish such material to, the SEC.
Overview
Canterbury Park Holding Corporation (the “Company,” “we,” “our,” or “us”) is the holding company for and parent company of two subsidiaries, Canterbury Park Entertainment LLC (“Canterbury Entertainment”) and Canterbury Development LLC (“Canterbury Development”) and an indirect subsidiary Canterbury Park Concessions, Inc. which is wholly-owned by Canterbury Entertainment. As used herein, the term “Company” or “we” includes Canterbury Park Holding Corporation and its subsidiaries unless the context indicates otherwise.
We divide our business into four segments: (i) horse racing, (ii) Casino, (iii) food and beverage, and (iv) real estate development. The horse racing segment represents our pari-mutuel wagering operations on simulcast and live horse races; the Casino segment represents our unbanked card operations; the food and beverage segment includes concessions, catering, and events and services provided at the Racetrack; and the real estate development segment represents our real estate development operations. We conduct our (i) horse racing, (ii) Casino, and (iii) food and beverage segments through Canterbury Entertainment. We conduct our real estate development segment through Canterbury Development.
In 2023, we developed a five-year strategic plan focused on growing Casino revenue. As part of our execution on the five-year strategic plan, we are actively evaluating new opportunities that would diversify and grow our business, including through potential strategic transactions and initiatives.
Canterbury Park Entertainment
Through Canterbury Entertainment, we host pari-mutuel wagering on thoroughbred and quarter horse races and “unbanked” card games at our Canterbury Park Racetrack and Casino facility (the “Racetrack”) in Shakopee, Minnesota, which is approximately 20 miles southwest of downtown Minneapolis. The Racetrack is the only facility in the State of Minnesota that offers live pari-mutuel thoroughbred and quarter horse racing. Our pari-mutuel wagering operations include both wagering on thoroughbred and quarter horse races during live meets at the Racetrack and year-round wagering on races held at out-of-state racetracks that are televised simultaneously at the Racetrack (“simulcasting”). Unbanked card games, in which patrons compete against each other instead of the house, are also hosted in the Casino at the Racetrack. The Casino has historically operated 24 hours a day, seven days a week and has offered both poker and table games at up to 80 tables as allowed by Minnesota statute. We also derive revenues from related services and activities, such as food and beverage, advertising signage, publication sales, and catering and events held at the Racetrack. The ownership and operation of the Racetrack and the Casino are significantly regulated by the Minnesota Racing Commission (“MRC”). Canterbury Entertainment is the direct owner of all land, facilities, and substantially all other assets related to our pari-mutuel wagering, Casino, concessions, and other related businesses (“Racetrack Operations”), and is subject to direct regulation by the MRC. Canterbury Development is the direct owner of all land used in the real estate development operations. We own approximately 260 acres of land as of December 31, 2025 , in Shakopee, Minnesota where the Racetrack is located.
Traditionally, our revenues have been principally derived from three activities: Casino operations, pari-mutuel operations, and food and beverage operations. For the year ended December 31, 2025 , revenues from Casino operations represented 62.3% of total net revenues, wagering on horse races represented 12.9% of total net revenues, and food and beverage revenue represented 13.8% of total net revenues. These components of revenue are described in more detail below. In addition, other revenues, which are principally derived from the three activities noted above, represented 11.0% of total net revenues for the year ended December 31, 2025 .
Horse Racing Operations
The Company’s horse racing operations consist of year-round simulcasting of horse races from around the U.S. and internationally and wagering on live thoroughbred and quarter horse races (“live meets”) held on a seasonal basis beginning in May and generally concluding in September each year. At the Racetrack, various aspects of our operations are subject to approval by the MRC and the organization that represents a majority of the owners and trainers of the horses who race at the Racetrack, which is the Minnesota Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (“MNHBPA”).
All of the wagering on simulcast and live horse races at the Racetrack is pari-mutuel wagering. In pari-mutuel wagering, bettors wager against each other in a pool, rather than against the operator of the facility or with preset odds. From the total handle wagered, the Minnesota Pari-Mutuel Horse Racing Act (the “Minnesota Racing Act”) specifies the maximum percentage, referred to as the “takeout,” that may be withheld by the Racetrack, with the balance returned to the winning bettors.
Pari-mutuel wagering can be divided into two categories: straight wagering pools and multiple wagering pools, which are also referred to as “exotic” wagering pools. Examples of straight wagers include: “win,” “place,” and “show.” Examples of exotic wagers include: “daily double,” “exacta,” “trifecta,” and “pick four.”
The amount of takeout earned by the Company on pari-mutuel wagering depends on where the race is run and the form of wager (straight or exotic). The total maximum takeouts are 17% from straight wagering pools and 23% from exotic wagering pools. From this takeout, Minnesota law requires deductions for purses, pari-mutuel taxes, and payments to the Minnesota Breeders’ Fund (“MBF”). The balance of the takeout remaining after these deductions is commonly referred to as the “retainage.”
While the Minnesota Racing Act regulates that a minimum of 8.4% of the live racing handle be paid as purses to the owners of the horses, purse contributions are governed by an agreement that we negotiate annually with the MNHBPA and the Minnesota Quarter Horse Racing Association (“MQHRA”).
In addition, the MBF receives 1% of the handle. The current pari-mutuel tax applicable to wagering on all simulcast and live races is 6% of takeout in excess of $12 million during the twelve-month period beginning July 1 and ending the following June 30.
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Net revenues from pari-mutuel wagering on live races run at the Racetrack consist of the total amount wagered, less the amounts paid (i) to winning patrons, (ii) for purses, (iii) to the MBF, and (iv) for pari-mutuel taxes to the State of Minnesota. Net revenues from pari-mutuel wagering on races being run at out-of-state racetracks and simulcast to the Racetrack have similar expenses but also include a host fee payment to the host track. The host fee, which is calculated as a percentage of monies wagered (generally 3.0% to 10.0%), is negotiated with the host track and must comply with state laws governing the host track. Pari-mutuel revenues also include commission and breakage revenues on live on-track and simulcast racing, fees received from out-of-state racetracks for wagering on our live races, and proceeds from unredeemed pari-mutuel tickets and vouchers.
Additionally, Minnesota Advanced Deposit Wagering (“ADW”) legislation allows Minnesota residents to engage in pari-mutuel wagering on out-of-state horse races online with a prefunded account through an ADW provider. The Company collects a percentage of monies wagered (generally 2.75% to 5.0%) by Minnesota residents through the ADW provider as a source market fee. The Company pays 28% of the collected revenues to another Minnesota-based horse track, records the remaining 72% as revenues, and records expenses of at least 50% for purses and breeders’ awards.
Live Racing
For the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024 , the Racetrack hos ted 50 and 53 d ays of live racing, respectively, beginning in May and concluding in September. In 2025, the Company had one day of live racing cancelled and one other day shortened due to inclement weather. In 2024, the Company had one day of live racing shortened due to inclement weather.
Simulcasting
Simulcasting is the process by which live horse races held at one facility (the “host track”) are transmitted simultaneously to other locations to allow patrons at each receiving location (the “guest track”) to place wagers on races transmitted from the host track. Monies are collected at the guest track, and the information with respect to the total amount wagered is electronically transmitted to the host track. All of the amounts wagered at guest tracks are combined into the appropriate pools at the host track with the final odds and payouts based upon all the monies in the respective pools.
The Company is able to offer simulcast racing seven days a week, 364 days a year from racetracks around the world, including Churchill Downs, Santa Anita, Gulfstream Park, Belmont Park, Saratoga Racecourse, and Meydan Racecourse. In addition, races of national interest, such as the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, the Belmont Stakes, and the Breeders’ Cup supplement the regular simulcast program. The Company regularly evaluates its agreements with other racetracks to offer the most popular simulcast signals of live horse racing that are reasonably available.
Under federal and state law, in order to conduct simulcast operations either as a host or guest track, the Company must obtain the consent of the MRC and the MNHBPA as the organization that represents a majority of the owners and trainers of the horses who race at the Racetrack. As these consents are obtained annually, no assurance can be given that the MRC and the MNHBPA will allow the Company to conduct simulcast operations either as a host or guest track in future years. If either the MRC or the MNHBPA do not consent, the Company’s operations could be adversely affected by a decrease in pari-mutuel revenue, lower attendance, and lower overall handle.
Casino Operations
The Casino may offer gaming 24 hours per day, seven days per week, and offers two forms of unbanked card games: poker and table games.
Poker games, including Texas Hold ‘Em, Stud, and Omaha, with betting limits per hand ranging between $2 and $100, are currently offered in our Casino. A dealer employed by the Company regulates the play of the game at each table and deals the cards but does not participate in play. In poker games, the Company is allowed to deduct a percentage from the accumulated wagers and impose other charges for hosting the activity but does not have an interest in the outcome of a game. The Company may add additional prizes, awards, or money to any game for promotional purposes. The primary source of poker revenue the Company collects is a “rake” of 5-10%, depending on the limit of the game, of the poker pot up to a maximum of $5 per hand. In addition, poker games offer progressive jackpots for most games. In order to fund the poker progressive jackpot pools, the dealer withholds up to $2 from each pot in excess of $15.
Table games, including Blackjack, Mississippi Stud, Fortune Pai Gow, Three Card Poker, Four Card Poker, Ultimate Texas Hold ‘Em, Five Treasures Baccarat, Criss Cross Poker, Free Bet Blackjack, DJ Wild, Double Down Madness Blackjack, and I Luv Suits, with betting limits ranging between $1 and $300, are currently offered in our Casino. The Company has the option to offer banked games under the Minnesota law governing Casino operations but currently only offers “unbanked” games. “Unbanked” refers to a wagering system or game where wagers lost in card games are accumulated into a player pool liability for purposes of enhancing the total amount paid back to winning players. The Company can only serve as custodian of the player pool, may not have an active interest in any card game, and does not recognize amounts that dealers “win” or “lose” during the course of play as revenue. The primary source of table games revenue is a percentage of the buy in received from the players, aggregated up to 20% per day, as defined by the MRC regulations, as compensation for providing the Casino facility and services, referred to as “collection revenue.” In addition, several table games offer a progressive jackpot. The player has the option of playing the jackpot with the opportunity to win some or the entire jackpot amount, depending upon the player’s hand.
Under Minnesota law, the Company is required to pay 10% of the first $6 million of gross Casino revenues towards purses for live horse racing at the Racetrack. After meeting the $6 million threshold, the Company must pay 14% of gross Casino revenues as purse monies. Of funds allocated for purses, the Company pays 10% of the purse monies to the MBF, which is a fund apportioned by the MRC among various purposes related to Minnesota’s horse breeding and horse racing industries. The remaining 90% of purse monies are divided between thoroughbred and quarter horse purse funds, the split of which is governed by an agreement that we negotiate annually with the MNHBPA and the MQHRA .
Food and Beverage Operations
We derive revenue from our food and beverage operations through sales at concession stands, restaurant and buffet, bars, and other food venues. The Company currently offers two, year-round café style restaurants and full service bars within the Casino and simulcast area. The Casino offers tableside menu service generally 20 hours a day. Our Triple Crown Club offers lounge services along with a buffet restaurant. During live racing, a wide variety of concession-style food and beverage options are available to our guests.
The food and beverage operations also include our catering and events operations. We have one of the largest event spaces in the Twin Cities with more than 100,000 square feet of available space. Our facilities provide a variety of purposes for year-round events and other activities. Our event space has been used for craft shows, trade shows, pool and poker tournaments, mixed martial arts events, automobile and other utility vehicle shows, and fundraisers. Our outdoor spaces have been used for concerts, snowmobile races, rodeos, and other competitions. The infield of the Racetrack has also been used as a concert and event area. In addition to event space, we have offered space in our horse stable area for rent for boat storage during the winter months and recreational vehicle storage during the summer months.
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Development Operations
Beginning in 2015, we began executing our development plan for Company land that was not necessary to conduct our Racetrack Operations (grandstand, racetrack, stable area, and parking areas) and land for other facilities, including the event center. Both Canterbury Development and the land held by Canterbury Development are not subject to direct regulation by the MRC. Originally, approximately 140 acres were considered underutilized and were targeted for real estate development by Canterbury Development to be complementary with our Racetrack Operations.
In 2025, Canterbury Development continued to pursue various development opportunities for the underutilized land in a project known as Canterbury Commons™. Canterbury Development continues to pursue various mixed use development opportunities, such as residential development, office, restaurants, hotel, entertainment, and retail operations. As of December 31, 2025 , Canterbury Development has contributed approximately 40 acres of land to four, separate joint ventures described below.
In addition, we have sold several parcels of land, totaling approximately 50 acres, to third parties that have and will develop the property as described below. Although we will have no continuing ownership in these land sales, we believe the future developments of these properties will contribute to the overall vitality of Canterbury Commons and drive visitation and spend to Canterbury Park.
The following is a summary of our real estate development projects within Canterbury Commons as of December 31, 2025 :
● Our first real estate development project in Canterbury Commons began in 2018 with Doran Canterbury I, LLC, a joint venture between Canterbury Development and an affiliate of Doran Companies (“Doran”) for the development of the upscale Triple Crown Residences at Canterbury Park.
○ In September 2018, Canterbury Development contributed approximately 13 acres of land as its equity contribution in the Doran Canterbury I, LLC joint venture and became a 27.4% equity member. Construction of the 321-unit Phase I, which was developed pursuant to the first joint venture agreement, began in late 2018 with initial occupancy on part of the building in June 2020. Remaining units were completed and available for occupancy by the end of 2020.
○ In August 2020, Doran exercised its option for Phase II of the project, which includes an additional 305 residential units, and the Company entered into a second joint venture with Doran called Doran Canterbury II, LLC. Pursuant to this second agreement, the Company transferred roughly 10 acres of land to Doran Canterbury II, LLC. In addition to receiving 27.4% ownership in Doran Canterbury II, the exchange resulted in the repayment of a $2.9 million note receivable which was on the Company’s balance sheet as a related party receivable as of June 30, 2020. Groundwork on the Doran Canterbury II site began in October 2020, paving the way for the ground-up construction of the second phase of apartments, which began construction in March 2022 with initial occupancy occurring in January 2024.
○ As a result of these joint ventures, Canterbury Development holds a 27.4% equity interest in Doran Canterbury I, LLC governed by an operating agreement effective as of March 1, 2018 with Doran Shakopee LLC, and Canterbury Development also holds a 27.4% equity interest in Doran Canterbury II, LLC governed by an operating agreement effective as of July 30, 2020 with Doran Shakopee LLC and amended October 1, 2021.
● On June 16, 2020, Canterbury Development, entered into an operating agreement with an affiliate of Greystone Construction ( “ Greystone ” ), as the two members of a Minnesota limited liability company named Canterbury DBSV Development, LLC ( “ Canterbury DBSV ” ). Canterbury DBSV was formed as part of a joint venture between Greystone and Canterbury Development for a multi-use development on the 13-acre land parcel located on the southwest portion of the Company’s Racetrack. Canterbury Development’s equity contribution to Canterbury DBSV was approximately 13 acres of land, which were contributed to Canterbury DBSV on July 1, 2020. In connection with its contribution, Canterbury Development became a 61.87% equity member in Canterbury DBSV.
○ During the fourth quarter of 2020, Canterbury DBSV transferred approximately 1.5 acres of land as an equity contribution into another joint venture, called GS Moving Up, LLC, a Minnesota limited liability company. In connection with its contribution, Canterbury DBSV became a 45.87% equity member in GS Moving Up, LLC. The land was used for the development of a new 28,000 square foot office building, with Greystone occupying the second floor as its corporate headquarters. The project was completed in the 2021 third quarter.
○ During the first quarter of 2022, Canterbury DBSV transferred approximately 3.5 acres of land as an equity contribution into another joint venture, called Omry Canterbury, LLC, a Minnesota limited liability company. In connection with its contribution, Canterbury DBSV became a 16.2% equity member in Omry Canterbury, LLC. The land was used for the development of a 147-unit senior living community with initial occupancy beginning during the fourth quarter of 2023.
○ During the fourth quarter of 2022, Canterbury DBSV transferred approximately 1.5 acres of land as an equity contribution into another joint venture, called SW Gateway, LLC, a Minnesota limited liability company. In connection with its contribution, Canterbury DBSV became a 45.9% equity member in SW Gateway, LLC. The land was used for the development of a new 11,000 square foot building that is occupied by a local restaurant and brewery, both of which began operations in July 2023.
○ During the fourth quarter of 2022, Canterbury DBSV sold approximately 1.7 acres of land to A&M Kerber Holdings, LLC for total consideration of approximately $925,000 for the construction of a Next Steps Learning Center and child care facility, which began operations during the fourth quarter of 2023.
○ During the first quarter of 2024, Canterbury DBSV transferred approximately 1.6 acres of land as an equity contribution into another joint venture, called Starting Gate, LLC, a Minnesota limited liability company. In connection with its contribution, Canterbury DBSV became a 47.77% equity member in Starting Gate, LLC. The land was used for the development of a new, 10,000 square foot commercial building that is occupied by a local pizza restaurant, BBQ restaurant, and fitness center, all of which are in operation as of February 2025.
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○ During the third quarter of 2024, Canterbury DBSV transferred approximately 1.5 acres of land as an equity contribution into another joint venture, called High Stakes, LLC, a Minnesota limited liability company. In connection with its contribution, Canterbury DBSV became a 31.22% equity member in High Stakes, LLC. The land was used for the development of a new, 28,000 square foot office building. The project was completed in the 2025 fourth quarter.
● On September 20, 2023, Canterbury Development, entered into an Operating Agreement with Trackside Hospitality, LLC as the two members of a Minnesota limited liability company named Trackside Investments, LLC ("Trackside Investments"). Trackside Investments was formed as a joint venture for the development of an approximately 16,000 square foot restaurant and entertainment venue, which began operations in June 2025. Canterbury Development's equity contribution to Trackside Investments was approximately 3.5 acres of land, which were contributed to Trackside Investments on August 20, 2024. In connection with its contribution, Canterbury Development became a 50% equity member in Trackside Investments. In addition, Canterbury Development is guaranteed an annual 6% preferred return on the balance of Canterbury Development's undistributed base capital.
● In April 2020, Canterbury Development entered into two agreements to sell approximately 14 acres of land on the west side of the Racetrack to Pulte Homes of Minnesota (“Pulte”) and Lifestyle Communities for total consideration of approximately $3,500,000. Closing of the Lifestyle Communities and the first phase of the Pulte transactions occurred in April 2021, totaling approximately 9.8 acres. The closing of phase two of the Pulte transaction and the sale of the remaining 4.2 acres occurred in June 2022.
○ Development approvals by Pulte on 110 new for sale row homes and townhome residences at Canterbury Commons was completed in late 2020. The project received its approvals from the City of Shakopee in a joint planned urban development application with Lifestyle Communities, which is located adjacent to the townhome project. Ground improvements and utility work commenced in early 2021 for both projects. Pulte has completed construction of all row home and townhome buildings with all of the residences occupied as of
December 31, 2025
.
● In September 2021, the Company entered into a purchase agreement to sell approximately 37 acres of land on the northeast corner of the Racetrack to Minneapolis-based Swervo Development Corporation (“Swervo”). Swervo intends to construct a state-of-the-art amphitheater as part of the Canterbury Commons development. The closing of the land sale took place in April 2023 for approximately $8,800,000 in total consideration. In late 2023, Swervo broke ground and construction is underway on the amphitheater. They have announced their 2026 live concert series that will begin in June. In connection with the land sale and amphitheater development, Canterbury received approval for a three-phase barn relocation and redevelopment plan which was substantially completed in 2025. We believe this $15 million barn area redevelopment project will continue the Company’s ongoing commitment to provide quality horse racing in the State of Minnesota as well as allow for future development of Canterbury’s underutilized land.
In addition to the aforementioned projects, the Company continues to make progress with developer and partner selection for the other development opportunities within Canterbury Commons. The initial development portfolio was weighted heavily in the residential segment with over 800 units of multifamily and over 100 units of for sale townhomes. The Company anticipates more opportunity and focus in the entertainment, office, retail, and hospitality segments in the later phases of the Canterbury Commons development. Canterbury expects to make additional announcements of new partners for this phase in the future.
See footnote 11 of the consolidated financial statements for more detailed information on recent transactions and development activity.
Competition
The Company operates in a highly competitive wagering and gaming environment with a large number of participants. The Company competes with competitive wagering operations and activities that include tribal casinos, state-sponsored lotteries, and other forms of legalized gaming in the U.S. and other jurisdictions. The Company competes with a number of tribal casinos in the State of Minnesota that offer video slot machines, table games, and both banked and unbanked card games, including Minnesota’s largest casino, Mystic Lake, which is located approximately four miles from the Racetrack and which is owned by the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community ("SMSC").
The Company faces direct competition from Running Aces Harness Park (“Running Aces”) in Columbus Township, Anoka County, Minnesota, a racetrack and card room that is located approximately 40 miles from Canterbury Park. Running Aces offers pari-mutuel wagering on live races of standardbred (“harness”) horses on a seasonal basis and year-round wagering on simulcasting of all breeds of horse races. In addition to pari-mutuel wagering, Running Aces operates a card room that directly competes with the Company’s Casino.
Additionally, Internet-based interactive gaming and wagering is growing rapidly and adversely affects all forms of wagering offered by the Company. In recent years, this form of wagering has become increasingly prevalent, as evidenced by the growth of sweepstakes websites and predictive market wagering.
Legislation became effective November 1, 2016 in Minnesota that allowed the Company to begin collecting source market fees from companies that offer ADW wagering. These companies provide legal simulcast horse wagering over the internet. The legislation now allows the Company to recoup a percentage of all simulcast horse racing wagers made by Minnesota residents over the internet on out-of-state races.
The Minnesota legislature continues to consider bills to legalize sports betting in the State of Minnesota. If sports betting were legalized in Minnesota for tribal casinos and through mobile applications operated by the tribes, we would experience increased competition from the tribal casinos which could divert customers from our Casino and Racetrack and thus adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.
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The Company also faces indirect competition from a variety of sources for discretionary consumer spending including spectator sports and other entertainment and gaming options. In the Minneapolis-Saint Paul metropolitan area, competition includes a wide range of live and televised professional and collegiate sporting events. In addition, live horse racing competes with a wide variety of summer attractions, including amusement parks, sporting events, and other local activities.
Finally, the Company competes with racetracks located throughout the United States in securing horses to run at the Racetrack. Attracting owners and trainers that can bring high quality horses to our Racetrack is largely dependent on our ability to offer competitive purses. The Company experiences significant competition for horses from racetracks located near Des Moines, Iowa and Chicago, Illinois. We expect this competition to continue for the foreseeable future.
Canterbury Development and its joint ventures face competition from developers of other residential, mixed use, office, retail, hotel, and entertainment spaces around Shakopee, Minnesota and elsewhere in Minnesota. These other developers may be larger and have more resources than Canterbury Development or than Canterbury Development and its developer partners on a combined basis. The leasing of real estate is highly competitive. The principal competitive factors are rent, location, lease term, lease concessions, services provided, and the nature and condition of the property to be leased. The Canterbury Development joint ventures will directly compete with all owners, developers, and operators of similar space in the areas in which our properties are located. The number of competitive multifamily properties in our particular market could adversely affect lease rates at residential properties in Canterbury Commons, as well as the rents able to be charged. In addition, other forms of residential properties, including single family housing and town homes, provide housing alternatives to potential residents of luxury apartment communities like our Triple Crown Residences at Canterbury Park. Likewise, the competition for high-quality tenants for retail, office, and other spaces is intense. In order to be successful, our real estate joint ventures must have high lease rates, competitive rental rates, and maintain high occupancy rates with a financially stable tenant base.
We may again in the future seek developers or other partners for joint venture arrangements or opportunities for Canterbury Development to develop our properties. We will be competing with other property owners, both around Shakopee and elsewhere, for high-quality builders, commercial and residential real estate firms, and developers that share our vision for Canterbury Commons. We have in the past and may agree in the future to sell parcels of land to third parties that will then develop the properties and in that case, we will also be in competition with other sellers of properties for purchasers. Although we will have no continuing ownership in these land sales, we believe that the ability to effectively compete for tenants will be a factor in the purchasers’ selection of our property over other competing properties for their developments.
Regulation and Regulatory Changes
General
The ownership and operation of the Racetrack in Minnesota is subject to significant regulation by the MRC under the Minnesota Racing Act and the rules adopted by the MRC. The Minnesota Racing Act governs the allocation of each wagering pool to winning bettors, the Racetrack, purses, pari-mutuel taxes, and the MBF, and empowers the MRC to license and regulate substantially all aspects of horse racing in the state. The MRC, among other things, grants operating licenses to racetracks after an application process and public hearings, licenses all racetrack employees, jockeys, trainers, veterinarians, and other participants, regulates the transfer of ownership interests in licenses, allocates live race days and simulcast-only race days, approves race programs, regulates the conduct of races, sets specifications for the racing ovals, animal facilities, employee quarters and public areas of racetracks, regulates the types of wagers on horse races, and approves significant contractual arrangements with racetracks, including management agreements, simulcast arrangements, and totalizator contracts.
A federal statute, the Interstate Horse Racing Act of 1978, also requires that a racetrack must obtain the consent of the group representing the horsepersons (owners and trainers) racing the breed of horses that race a majority of the time at the racetrack (which is the MNHBPA), and the consent of the state agency regulating the racetrack (in Minnesota, the MRC), in order to transmit simulcast signals of its live races or to receive and use simulcast signals from other racetracks.
Issuance of Class A and Class B Licenses to the Company
The Company holds a Class A License, issued by the MRC, that allows the Company to own and operate the Racetrack. The Class A License is effective until revoked, suspended by the MRC, or relinquished by the licensee. Currently, the fee for a Class A License is $253,000 p er fiscal year.
The Company also holds a Class B License, issued by the MRC, that allows the Company to sponsor and manage horse racing on which pari-mutuel wagering is conducted at its Class A licensed racetrack and on other horse races run at out-of-state locations as authorized by the MRC. The Class B License is renewable each year by the MRC after a public hearing (if required by the MRC). Currently, the fee for the Class B License is $500 for each assigned race day on which live racing is actually conducted and $100 for each day on which simulcasting is authorized and actually takes place.
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In addition, the law requires that the Company reimburse the MRC for actual costs, including stewards, state veterinarians and drug testing, related to the regulating of live racing. For fiscal years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024 , the Company paid $557,000 and $555,000, respectively, to the MRC as reimbursement for costs of regulating live racing operations.
The MRC is also authorized by the Racing Act to regulate Casino operations. The law requires that the Company reimburse the MRC for its actual costs, including personnel costs, of regulating the Casino. For fiscal years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024 , the Company paid $354,000 and $356,000, respectively, to the MRC as reimbursement for costs of regulating Casino operations.
On January 19, 2000, the MRC issued an additional Class B License to the Company that authorized the Company to host unbanked card games. The Class B License is renewable each year by the MRC after a public hearing (if required by the MRC). Currently, the Class B License fee of $10,000 per calendar year is included in the Class A License fee of $253,000 per calendar year.
Limitation on the Number of Class A and Class B Licenses
Pursuant to the Racing Act, so long as the Racetrack maintains its Class A License, no other Class A License may be issued to allow an entity to own and operate a racetrack in the seven county metropolitan area where thoroughbred and quarter horses are raced. However, the Racing Act provides that the MRC may issue an additional Class A License within the seven-county metropolitan area, if the additional license is issued for a facility that, among other conditions, is located more than 20 miles from the Racetrack, contains a track no larger than five-eighths of a mile in circumference, and is used exclusively for harness racing. In January 2005, this additional Class A license was issued for the location that later became known as Running Aces (see “Risk Factors” below).
Limitation on Ownership and Management of an Entity that holds a Class A or Class B License
The Racing Act requires prior MRC approval of all officers, directors, 5% shareholders, or other persons having a present or future direct or indirect financial or management interest in any person applying for a Class A or Class B license, and if a change of ownership of more than 5% of the licensee’s shares is made after an application is filed or the license issued, the applicant or licensee must notify the MRC of the changes within five days of this occurrence and provide the information required by the Racing Act.
Advanced Deposit Wagering Legislation
Minnesota ADW legislation that became effective November 1, 2016 requires ADW providers to be licensed by the MRC and established licensing criteria and regulatory oversight of ADW providers doing business in the State of Minnesota. The law allows licensed racetracks to negotiate separate agreements with the ADW providers to remit source market fees to those racetracks. The ADW source market revenue to the Company totaled approximately $1,326,000 and $1,288,000 for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024 , respectively. As part of the agreement, 50% of source market fees is allocated to purse accounts and the MBF.
Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act
The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act ("HISA"), which was passed at the end of 2020 and amended in late 2022, creates uniform national standards for thoroughbred racing in the areas of racetrack safety and medication. The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority was established to enforce HISA and operates under the oversight of the Federal Trade Commission. In addition to oversight by the MRC, our Racetracks and their participants are subject to the HISA equine safety, welfare and drug testing rules and regulations established by the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority under HISA.
Sports Betting
The Minnesota legislature is continuing to consider bills to legalize sports betting in Minnesota at tribal casinos and online through mobile applications operated by the tribes. It is not certain whether any of these bills will be adopted into law. If sports betting were legalized in Minnesota for tribal casinos and through mobile applications operated by the tribes, we would experience increased competition from the tribal casinos which could divert customers from our Casino and Racetrack and thus adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.
Local Regulation
The Company’s operations are subject to state and local laws, regulations, ordinances, and other provisions affecting zoning, public health, and other matters that may have the effect of restricting the uses to which the Company’s land and other assets may be used. Also, any development of the Racetrack site and Canterbury Commons is, among other things, subject to applicable zoning ordinances and requires approval by the City of Shakopee and other authorities. There can be no assurance these approvals will be obtained for any future development the Company proposes.
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Marketing
The Company’s primary market is the seven-county Minneapolis-Saint Paul metropolitan area (Hennepin, Ramsey, Anoka, Washington, Dakota, Scott, and Carver) plus the two counties to the south of the Racetrack and Casino (Le Sueur and Rice). The City of Shakopee, located in the southwestern portion of the metropolitan area, is one of the fastest growing communities in the region, and Scott County is one of the fastest growing counties in the country.
To support its Casino, pari-mutuel horse racing, and catering and events businesses, the Company conducts year-round marketing efforts to maintain the loyalty of existing customers and attract new players and customers to the property. The Company uses radio, television, digital advertising, social media, print advertising, and direct marketing to communicate to its audiences. In addition to its regular advertising and communication program, the Company conducts numerous special promotions, handicapping contests, and Casino tournaments to attract incremental visits. The Company also uses a player rewards and database marketing program to enhance the loyalty of its guests.
The Company continues to focus on creating a premier guest experience as the core element of its marketing efforts. This includes delivering great customer service, developing new food and beverage offerings, creating fan education programs, and providing entertainment opportunities that go beyond the traditional pari-mutuel wagering and card playing activities.
Human Capital and Team Members
Talent Management
At December 31, 2025 , the Compa ny had 214 full-time team members and 532 part-time team members. Th e Company adds approximately 350 team members on a seasonal basis for live racing operations from early May until September. We have seen, and continue to see, industry-wide labor shortages causing challenges in hiring or re-hiring for certain positions. In response, we have enhanced our recruitment and retention efforts and increased compensation where needed to maintain competitiveness in this difficult market.
We also offer benefits to eligible employees, including participation in our KSOP Plan (the “KSOP”) that includes the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (the “ESOP”) and the 401(k) Plan. Beginning January 1, 2016, the matching of employee contributions has been issued in Company stock, which we believe aligns the interests of Company employees with our shareholders and allows employees to participate in the success that they help create at our company.
Our success depends in large part upon our ability to attract, retain, train, lead, and motivate skilled team members. To facilitate the recruitment, development, and retention of our valuable team members, we strive to make Canterbury Park a diverse, inclusive, and safe workplace, with opportunities for our team to grow and develop. The Company offers training and development opportunities for team members to enhance leadership and communication skills . To help retain talent, we measure team member engagement, including conducting regular engagement surveys to all team members. The most recent survey was conducted in 2024 and reflected an engagement level among our team members that exceeded the average engagement levels of benchmarked companies.
Health and Safety
During 2025, we continued to focus significant attention to enhancing health and safety protocols. In addition, our employee guidelines and policies are founded on our cornerstones of safety, service, courtesy, cleanliness, and integrity. We are committed to equal opportunity employment and prohibit harassment or discrimination of any kind. We have adopted an open door policy to encourage an honest employer-associate relationship which includes a confidential hotline available to all employees.
Executive Officers
The executive officers of the Company, their ages and their positions with the Company at March 10, 2026 are as follows:
Name
Age
Position with Company
Randall D. Sampson
67
President, CEO, and Chairman of the Board
Randy J. Dehmer
43
Senior Vice President of Finance and CFO
Randall D. Sampson has been President and Chief Executive Officer since the formation of the Company in March 1994. Mr. Sampson was also named Chairman of the Board on October 3, 2019. He has been active in horse industry associations, currently serving as Director of the Thoroughbred Racetracks of America and is a past Vice President of the Thoroughbred Racetracks of America and past President of the Minnesota Thoroughbred Association. Mr. Sampson also served as a director of Pineapple Energy Inc. (Nasdaq:PEGY), a growing domestic operator and consolidator of residential solar, battery storage, and grid service solutions based in Minnetonka, Minnesota, until 2024.
Randy J. Dehmer was hired as Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer in May 2019, and promoted to Senior Vice President of Finance in September 2021. Mr. Dehmer worked for the Company from December 2007 to August 2013, most recently serving as controller from March 2012 to August 2013. Prior to rejoining the Company, he served as financial controller for Clearfield, Inc. (Nasdaq: CLFD), which designs, manufactures, and distributes fiber protection, fiber management and fiber delivery solutions, from September 2013 to May 2019. Mr. Dehmer also currently serves as a director on the Shakopee Chamber of Commerce board.
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