the market won't bear higher purses. most promotors are struggling to get weekly fans in the stands as it is. you can increase the purses all you want but, the money has to come from somewhere. I don't see increased "regular show" purses and higher front gate prices doing anything to attract new fans. now that we are in the era of back gate promoting with 3 to 5 classes for a regular show, I believe it will be even more difficult to attract new fans. you can make money promoting short track racing but, I can't see where too many promotors are actually enjoying a "comfortable" life style from it.