From TOC ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 13, 2018)  — At its April board meeting, the TOC board voted to appoint Gary Fenton chairman of its Racing Affairs Committee effective immediately. Racing Affairs is one of the most active working board committees with primary responsibility including approving stakes and overnight purse schedules and purse contracts and overseeing race date recommendations, horse inventory, race conditions, and incentive programs.    Fenton, who began his career as an entertainment attorney, is currently the managing partner of Little Red Feather Racing (LRF), one of California’s leading owners with over 75 horses and 450 active partners. LRF has syndicated over 150 horses and brought hundreds of new owners into the sport.   “We are very pleased that Gary has accepted the chairmanship of Racing Affairs,” said TOC Chairman Nick Alexander. “His involvement and experience in the racing business make him uniquely qualified to lead this important committee.”   Outgoing board member Kathy Walsh is stepping down as chair of the committee. After having served two terms beginning in... ...

From DMTC Publicity BONSALL, Calif. (Apr. 11, 2018) — The first of the Lilac fire horses who had to be evacuated from San Luis Rey Downs and take up residence at Del Mar in December began to filter back to the Bonsall training center this past weekend and more followed Monday. The transition will continue throughout this week with all of the approximately 400-plus Thoroughbreds who have called Del Mar home for the past four months returned by next weekend. “We’ve had about 100 horses ship out over the past two days,” said Del Mar’s racing secretary, David Jerkens, who has been overseeing the track’s busy stable area since the fast-moving fire burned more than 4,100 acres, destroyed more than 200 homes and structures and took 46 equine lives at San Luis Rey in early December. “We will have another 50 ship over today (Monday). By this coming weekend, we expect they’ll all be back home at San Luis Rey.” Among trainers who moved their runners back to the Bonsall... ...

By DRF.com DEL MAR, Calif. (Apr. 4, 2018) — Del Mar will increase appearance bonuses for out-of-state shippers who meet certain criteria for the track’s two race meetings this year. The owner of a horse who made his previous start at other circuits or outside the United States and has not started in California in the preceding 12 months will be paid a $2,000 bonus for the horse’s first start at Del Mar. First-time starters are not eligible. Last year, a bonus of $1,500 was paid to the owner of a horse who met that criteria. The track has left in place a 30 percent bonus on purse money earned by out-of-state shippers in a horse’s first start at Del Mar in all races other than stakes. The program, known as “Ship and Win,” was launched in 2011 with $1,000 appearance fees and 20 percent bonuses for prize money earned in initial starts. The incentives are designed to lure stables from other circuits and encourage California-based owners to acquire race-ready... ...

From CHRB ALBANY, Calif. (Mar. 30, 2018) — Representatives of Golden Gate Fields, the northern fairs, and horsemen’s groups reached agreement Friday on a financing plan to keep Golden Gate open for stabling and training during the summer fair season. The agreement eliminates the need for the Special Committee on Northern California Racing to meet April 5 as originally planned. The key elements of the agreement, which were worked out Thursday when the committee met privately with stakeholders, are:      1.            Golden Gate will be open for stabling and training for all 2018 Northern California racing fairs. Stabling and training schedules will be in accordance with past practices.        2.            Golden Gate will receive the full two percent that is generated from handle for the stabling and vanning fund during all 2018 Northern California racing fairs.        3.            All trainers stabled at Golden Gate during the summer fair season will be required to make at least one start per stall during that period (“Minimum Start Requirement”). If the... ...

PASO ROBLES, Calif. (Mar. 26, 2018) – Ray Allen, Jr., who managed Silver Creek Ranch and was a longtime member of California Thoroughbred Breeders Association, passed away at home on his ranch on Thursday. He was 86. He stood the California-bred stallion Painted Wagon at Silver Creek. Allen, a Korean War veteran, was 2010 Cattleman of the Year for San Luis Obispo County; 2004 Santa Barbara Fiesta Honorary Vaquero; and he was inducted into the California Mid-State Fair Hall of Fame in 2016. He is survived by three children , six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at the Paso Robles Fairgrounds / Event Center on Friday, March 30 at 5:30 p.m. in the Frontier Pavilion, 2198 Riverside Ave, Paso Robles, CA 93446 with barbecue to follow hosted by SLO Cattlemen’s Association. ...

From NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (Mar. 23, 2018) — Congress early Friday passed a Fiscal 2018 omnibus appropriations bill which includes language that could almost double the number of H-2B visas available, potentially improving a dire situation for Thoroughbred trainers, many of whom depend on these visas for the industry’s sizable foreign temporary workforce. The bill provides the Secretary of Homeland Security the authority to raise the cap on H-2B visas if the Secretary, in consultation with the Department of Labor, determines that there is an economic need. If the omnibus spending bill is signed into law by President Trump, the total number of H-2B workers that may enter the U.S. during fiscal 2018, which ends on September 30, 2018, will then be capped at 129,547. If fully implemented, this new cap would be equal to the number of new and returning H-2B workers admitted to the U.S. in fiscal 2007, which is the fiscal year when the highest number of H-2B foreign temporary workers participated in the H-2B program. “Congress... ...

ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 14, 2018) — California champion Sircat Sally is in foal to Breeders’ Cup Classic winner Arrogate, breeder Joe Turner announced. Sircat Sally, a 4-year-old daughter of Surf Cat, out of the In Excess mare Sister Sally, was bred and owned by Turner and went on to win seven of eight career starts and with earnings of $552,880. She won her first seven starts, including three graded stakes, but was injured in her final start, when she finished third in the July 23 San Clemente Stakes. Sircat Sally was named the 2017 Cal-bred Horse of the Year and champion 3-year-old female. She was trained by Jerry Hollendorfer. ...

WAIALUA, Hawaii (Mar. 8, 2018) — California breeder and owner Stan Hodge passed away in Hawaii last month. He was nine days shy of his 80th birthday. Hodge, a longtime member of California Thoroughbred Breeders Association, is survived by his wife, Frances, eight children, 14 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. A celebration of life will be held on March 18, 2018, at 3:30 p.m. at St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Byron, Calif. ...

By Del Mar Times DEL MAR, Calif. — Hours after surveying the Lilac fire’s grim fallout in Del Mar, Michelle Storm took to Facebook. In the three days since the blaze tore through San Luis Rey Downs—killing nearly 50 horses on Dec. 7 and displacing the training facility’s live-in workers—Del Mar Racetrack had become a makeshift sanctuary for more than 800 horses and some 200 groomsmen. http://www.delmartimes.net/lifestyle/sd-cm-nc-lilac-fire-20180227-story.html ...

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Mar. 7, 2018) – The regular meeting of the California Horse Racing Board scheduled for Thursday, Mar. 22, 2018, at Golden Gate Fields, has been canceled. The next meeting of the Board is scheduled for Thursday, Apr. 19, 2018, at Santa Anita. A meeting of the CHRB Special Committee on Northern California Racing will be held on Thursday, Mar. 22, 2018, at 10:30 a.m. in the Bayview Lounge (Turf Club) at Golden Gate Fields. Non-committee Board members attending the committee meeting may not participate in the public discussion, official committee vote, or committee closed session. The agenda of the committee meeting will consist of the following matters: Discussion regarding a report and update from the Pacific Racing Association (Golden Gate Fields) and the Northern California Stabling and Vanning Committee on the projected availability of stalls at Golden Gate Fields through the remainder of its race meeting and the projected availability of stalls for off-site stabling and training during the 2018 summer fair circuit. Discussion regarding a... ...

From CHRB CYPRESS, Calif. (Mar. 6, 2018) — The California Department of Food and Agriculture today lifted the quarantine at Los Alamitos Race Course after determining there have been no additional cases of equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) since the first and only case was confirmed February 20. (See February 23 update for details.) Normal transfer of horses to and from Los Alamitos has been resumed. ...

From Barretts DEL MAR, Calif. (Feb. 28, 2018) — The catalog for the Barretts April Sale of Two-Year-Olds in Training is now on-line and will be mailed soon. This auction of 157 two-year-olds will be held on Wednesday, April 4 in the Surfside Raceplace located on the grounds of Del Mar Racetrack in Del Mar, California beginning at 2:00 p.m. PDT.   The catalog can be viewed here. The April Sale catalog will also be available soon for your Ipad.  Click here for details. The official training preview is scheduled to be held on Monday, April 2 on the Del Mar racetrack beginning at 10:00 a.m. PDT.   The preview will be streamed live at barretts.com. Video clips for each preview, will be posted during the preview and can be viewed on-line by the following morning. Recent graduates of Barretts two-year-old sales include two 2018 Graded Stakes winners at Santa Anita, Om and Kanthaka, as well as three stakes winners in Japan: Best Macho, Ryano Tesoro and Nanchinnon. ...

From CHRB ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 23, 2018) – The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, February 22, at Santa Anita Park. Chair Chuck Winner presided. Vice Chair Madeline Auerbach and Commissioners Jesse Choper, Fred Maas, Araceli Ruano and Alex Solis also were in attendance. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: ·        Tim Ritvo, chief operating officer for The Stronach Group (TSG), reported that repairs and construction of barns either damaged or destroyed by the fire at San Luis Rey training center are underway, and TSG plans to reopen the facility for auxiliary stabling and training after April 1. This led to a discussion of continuing efforts to help those affected by the December 7 blaze. Those efforts are being carefully monitored to make certain that all donations are being properly distributed. ·        Greg Avioli, president of the Thoroughbred Owners of California (TOC) and head of the California Marketing Committee (CMC), followed up on a report on the... ...

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Feb. 21, 2018) – Alex Solis and Madeline Auerbach have been reappointed to the California Horse Racing Board by Governor Edmund G. Brown, Jr. Solis, 53, of Monrovia, has since 2015. Solis was a jockey from 1982 to 2017. He is a member of the Jockey’s Guild and was inducted into the National Racing Hall of Fame in 2014. This position requires Senate confirmation and the compensation is $100 per diem. Solis is a Democrat. Auerbach, 73, of Bell Canyon, has served since 2014. Auerbach has been director and owner at M. Auerbach LLC since 2000. She was chief financial officer and owner at JSA Corp DBA Hippopotamus from 1977 to 2004. Auerbach is a member of the Jockey Club. This position requires Senate confirmation and the compensation is $100 per diem. Auerbach is a Democrat. ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Feb. 21, 2018) — The Jockey Club announced today that the 2018 edition of the Fact Book is available in the Resources section of its website at jockeyclub.com. The online Fact Book is a statistical and informational guide to Thoroughbred breeding, racing and auction sales in North America. It also features a directory of Canadian, international, national, and state organizations. Links to the Breeding Statistics report that is released by The Jockey Club each September and the Report of Mares Bred information that is published by The Jockey Club each October can be found in the Breeding section of the Fact Book. The 2018 editions of State Fact Books, which feature detailed breeding, racing and auction sales information specific to numerous states, Canadian provinces, and Puerto Rico, are also available on The Jockey Club website. The State Fact Books are updated monthly.   ...

By Bloodhorse.com Equine artist Fred Stone, whose works are in the White House and Buckingham Palace, died Feb. 4. He was 87. On his Facebook page, Stone’s family reported that the artist died due to complications from cancer. They said he was surrounded by family. Born April 13, 1930, in St. Louis, Stone’s family moved to Los Angeles when he was 3. He studied art at the Otis Art Institute as a child. Later, he attended The Art Center School and Chouinard Art Institute in Los Angeles. Stone worked as a commerical artist and painted backgrounds for the film industry. In the late 1970s he turned to painting racehorses. In a 1990 BloodHorse story, Stone described that transition. “At first they all looked alike,” Stone said. “But I fell  in love with racing and once I studied horses, they became individuals—full of emotion and power.” Stone’s large murals can be found all over the world, including the world’s largest horse mural at the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas. Stone supported worthy charities... ...

From Harris Farms COALINGA, Calif. (February 4, 2018)-Lucky Pulpit’s last and only foal of 2018 arrived at 8:35 p.m. on January 31 at John Harris’ Harris Farms near Coalinga. The plain bay colt is out of Mother Luck (Street Sense x Alishir’s World). His dam is a half-sister to multiple stakes winner and G1 stakes placed Antares World. The unnamed colt was bred by his owners Mr. and Mrs. Larry D. Williams’ Tree Top Ranch, who also owned his sire.   Lucky Pulpit is most noted as the sire of multiple Eclipse winning and two-time Horse of the Year winner California Chrome ($14,752,650). Lucky Pulpit entered stud in 2007 and stood his entire career at Harris Farms. He was California’s Leading Freshman Sire of 2010 and topped the California General Sire List in 2014 and 2016. In 2017, Lucky Pulpit was the Leading Sire of California Conceived Foals by number of winners and of two-year-olds by earnings.   Inquiries to Dave McGlothlin at Harris Farms 800-311-6211 or davem@harrisfarms.com http://www.harrisfarms.com/ ...

By Bloodhorse.com Show horse trainer Stevee Keller didn’t realize a casual conversation about Thoroughbred pedigrees she favored would lead to her owning her first stallion and a rising star in the world of three-day eventing. Keller had been talking with Adrian Gonzalez, with Checkmate Thoroughbreds, who she attends sales with in California. Gonzalez asked her if she had a preference for particular bloodlines. “I told him the one that is really up-and-coming are with The Pamplemousse babies,” Keller recalled Jan. 31, referring to the grade 3-winning son of Kafwain who was standing at Rancho San Miguel. “I have, like, four that are on their way to becoming two-star, three-star, almost up to Olympic level, three-day eventing horses. Adrian just laughed.” It so happened that Gonzalez handles the sale consignments for Rancho San Miguel’s young horses and knew the farm wanted to find a new home for the big gray 12-year-old horse. After face-to-face meetings with Rancho San Miguel’s general manager Clay Murdock, Keller got an exciting new prospect and Murdock found an ideal second career... ...

From CHRB ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 26, 2018) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, January 25, at Santa Anita Park. Chairman Chuck Winner presided. Vice Chairman Madeline Auerbach and Commissioners Jesse Choper, Fred Maas, Araceli Ruano and Alex Solis also were in attendance. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: ·        Cliff Goodrich, executive director of the California Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Foundation (CTHF), summarized the relief efforts for victims of the fire at San Luis Rey training center. Goodrich and representatives of Santa Anita Park/The Stronach Group and the California Thoroughbred Trainers (CTT) detailed the distribution of $818,000 that was donated by more than 6,000 individuals and organizations in response to the tragedy. As a non-profit organization that provides medical care and other services to racetrack workers, CTHF was selected by those involved to receive and distribute the funds, relying on input from those best able to determine the identities and needs of the victims. Funds were... ...

By Bloodhorse.com LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Jan. 23,2018) — Churchill Downs Incorporated announced Jan. 23 that it has made a donation of $25,000 to California Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Foundation (CTHF) to distribute to victims of the San Luis Rey Downs fire. The December fire in Bonsall, Calif., claimed the lives of 46 horses, resulted in the hospitalization of five trainers, and destroyed countless horse stables on the property.   “As attention and support have dwindled for this important cause, it is my hope that our donation will reinvigorate the ongoing efforts at San Luis Rey Downs,” said Bill Carstanjen, chief executive officer of CDI. “We are grateful to CTHF for their swift efforts to provide relief to workers and trainers who suffered from the devastation. Our continued thoughts are with those impacted by this tragedy in our industry.”  CTHF is a non-profit foundation that supports over 5,000 CHRB licensed backstretch workers and their families throughout California. Donations can be made at cthfcares.org/donate. ...

By Bloodhorse.com POMONA, Calif. (Jan. 17, 2018) — Adrian Gonzalez’s Checkmate Thoroughbreds sold three of the four highest-priced horses at the Barretts mixed sale Jan. 17 in Pomona, Calif. All were 2-year-olds and went to three different buyers. Checkmate, the sale’s leading consignor, topped the sale with a 2-year-old son of Quality Road  who brought $120,000. Trainer O.J. Jauregui purchased the colt for Lindsay LaRoche’s Highland Yard. The Barretts sale also included several stallion seasons and art items that were donated to raise funds for victims of the San Luis Rey Downs fire. Kim Lloyd, Barretts’ general manager, said that the items raised more than $25,000. In addition, Barretts announced that it will donate 10% of its commissions from the horses sold at the sale to the California Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Foundation for fire relief. A total of 111 horses grossed $1,180,600 for an average of $10,636, compared to 2017, when 125 horses grossed $995,800 and averaged $7,966, an increase of 34% in average. The 2-year-olds brought the highest average of $13,241 for 37... ...

By DRF.com HALLANDALE BEACH, Fla. (Jan. 12, 2018) — The administrators of the Eclipse Awards have voted to issue a Special Eclipse Award this year to the people who responded to two disasters affecting the racing community in 2017 – the hurricane in September that put more than 800 horses at risk in Puerto Rico, and the wildfire in December that killed 46 horses at San Luis Rey Downs training center. The administrators said in a press release that they were issuing the Special Eclipse “in recognition of countless acts of heroism, bravery, and benevolence in the face of tragedy.” Unlike other Eclipse Awards, the Special Eclipse is not issued every year and was last issued in 2014 to recognize Old Friends Farm, the retirement organization. The Award will be presented to “representatives” of the two relief efforts at the Eclipse Awards dinner and ceremony on Jan. 25 at Gulfstream Park in south Florida. The release said that Kelley Stobie and Shelley Blodgett of Caribbean Thoroughbred Aftercare would represent “countless... ...

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Dec. 23, 2017) — The California Horse Racing Board announced Dec. 22 that it has rejected the settlement offer made by the attorneys for trainer Ron Ellis, regarding his sanctions over the drug violation in California-bred Masochistic from the 2016 TwinSpires Breeders’ Cup Sprint (G1). Ellis’ attorney, Steve Schwartz, said Dec. 20 that a settlement offer had been made to cut the trainer’s suspension down to 59 days from 60, in exchange for a year of probation. A 60-day suspension requires that a trainer’s stable be disbanded. Schwartz said the motivation for the proposal was to save the jobs of the 15 workers Ellis employs at his Santa Anita Park base. The CHRB responded Friday—although Schwartz said he had not been notified—with a statement from spokesman Mike Marten. “Mr. Ellis could have proposed a settlement to the CHRB’s deputy attorney general and/or executive director at any point in time leading up to the board’s consideration of the proposed decision this month. He did not do so,” the statement... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Dec. 21, 2017) — The Jockey Club today announced that beginning with the 2018 breeding season, it will charge $35 for each mare reported bred by a stallion on the annual Report of Mares Bred form. The fee will supplement the industry support already provided by The Jockey Club for Thoroughbred aftercare initiatives, including the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA), Thoroughbred Charities of America (TCA), and Thoroughbred Incentive Program (T.I.P.). “The Jockey Club has examined its rate structure, and a fee for mares reported bred is consistent with fees required by other Thoroughbred breed registries worldwide,” said James L. Gagliano, president and chief operating officer of The Jockey Club. “We are pleased to announce that proceeds of this fee will be used to support a host of aftercare initiatives.” “These funds will augment the great work already being done by the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, which now accredits and grants funds to dozens of aftercare organizations each year,” said John Phillips, owner of Darby Dan Farm... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Dec. 21, 2017) — Today The Jockey Club published a list of more than 42,000 names released from active use. This list is sortable by letter and available onregistry.jockeyclub.com and mobile.registry.jockeyclub.com to help customers with name selections for claiming and reserving names. A majority of the released names are from horses more than 10 years old that have not raced or been used for breeding during the preceding five years. Names selected from the list for re-use are subject to approval by The Jockey Club. Name selections can be submitted to The Jockey Club from the registry website or can be submitted via iOS and Android mobile applications. The Naming Application is available for download free of charge and provides a fast and convenient way to reserve, change, or claim a name. “The Jockey Club’s Registry provides a variety of platforms through which owners and breeders can easily claim and reserve names,” said Matt Iuliano, The Jockey Club’s executive vice president and executive director. “For those who... ...

From National Museum of Racing SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (Dec. 19, 2017) — The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame will launch an innovative new project called Foal Patrol, a one-of-a-kind collection of live web cameras where people can view real-time streams of several in-foal mares during their pregnancy through the actual foaling. The live camera feeds will be available beginning Dec. 19 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST daily with extended hours as the expected foaling date approaches. The live cameras can be accessed for free by visiting www.foalpatrol.com. The website is optimized for viewing across all media platforms, including tablets and smart phones. “We are delighted to be the first to offer this one-of-a-kind program that will build new fans and strengthen insights for racing enthusiasts,” said Cathy Marino, the Museum’s director. “We are so thankful for the creative mind and generous heart of our president, John Hendrickson, who brought the Museum this opportunity. In addition to creating the concept of Foal Patrol, Mr. Hendrickson and... ...

From DMTC Publicity DEL MAR, Calif. (Dec. 20, 2017) — Burt Bacharach, a horse owner and racing fan for 50 years, has announced that he will host a fundraiser for the victims of the tragic San Luis Rey Downs training track fire in Bonsall on December 7 that took the lives of 46 horses and seriously injured several of their caretakers. The musical event, planned for Wednesday, January 17 will start at 7:30 p.m. with a small auction of special items, notably a chance to sing “Close to You” onstage with Bacharach that evening and a table for four on Opening Day at Del Mar in 2018. The event will be held at the iconic Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach, less than a mile from the racetrack at Del Mar, and will be called “An Evening of Music To Support the Victims of the Fire at San Luis Rey Downs Training Center.” Bacharach will be joined on stage during the evening for a special performance by Grammy Award winning... ...

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Dec. 18, 2017)—With Santa Anita’s traditional Winter Meet opener looming on Tuesday, Dec. 26, veteran racing official Daniel Eidson has returned to Southern California following a four year stint in New York to become Santa Anita Park’s Racing Director. Eidson, 65, who served with distinction for more than 30 years in various roles at Golden Gate Fields and Hollywood Park prior to going to work for NYRA in 2014, will assist Santa Anita Vice President of Racing Rick Hammerle in his efforts to present competitive, full fields to the betting public. “Danny and I worked together at Golden Gate back in the late 80s and we’ve remained in close contact over these many years,” said Hammerle. “He’s from California and he’s been anxious to come home. He’s known and well respected here and throughout the country and that’s a huge plus for us. We’re excited to have a guy of his caliber filling this very important position.” Eidson, who officially assumed his duties today... ...

By DRF.com CYPRESS, Calif. (Dec. 17, 2017) — Trainer Ron Ellis has been fined $10,000 and suspended 60 days after California-bred Masochistic tested positive for the steroid stanozolol following a second-place finish in the Breeders’ Cup Sprint at Santa Anita in November 2016. Ellis said Sunday afternoon that he is considering an appeal, pending a conversation with his attorney, Steve Schwartz. He described the penalty as “egregious.” “I’ll meet with my lawyer and explore an appeal,” he said. “I want to explore my options.” The decision was announced in a one-page ruling released by Los Alamitos stewards Luis Jauregui, Kim Sawyer, and Tom Ward on Sunday. The decision, recently adopted by the California Horse Racing Board, was proposed earlier this fall by stewards Grant Baker, Scott Chaney, and Sawyer, who heard hearings in the case in the last year. Ellis’s suspension runs from Jan. 1 through March 1. The penalty would essentially shut down Ellis’s stable for the first two months of the Santa Anita winter-spring meeting that begins on... ...

From CHRB CYPRESS, Calif. (Dec. 15, 2017) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, December 14, at Los Alamitos Race Course. Chairman Chuck Winner presided. Vice Chairman Madeline Auerbach and Commissioners Jesse Choper, Fred Maas, Araceli Ruano and Alex Solis also were in attendance. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: ·        Chairman Winner began the meeting by honoring the equine and human victims of the December 7 fire at San Luis Rey (SLR) training center and all those who rushed to their aid and later contributed to relief efforts. Vice Chairman Auerbach elaborated on the generosity of thousands who donated cash, services and supplies in the aftermath of the tragedy, and she was followed by Alan Balch, executive director of the California Thoroughbred Trainers; Cliff Goodrich, executive director of the California Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Foundation; and Tim Ritvo, chief operating officer of The Stronach Group, which owns SLR and Santa Anita Park. Among... ...

From TOC ALBANY, Calif. (Dec. 8, 2017) — Due to the California wildfires, TOC’s Q&A with Patrick Mackey and Tom Doutrich on Sunday, December 10th, at Golden Gate has been postponed until further notice. We apologize for any inconvenience. ...

By DRF.com SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Dec. 8, 2017) — Larry Swartzlander finally got the interim tag removed from his title and has been named executive director of the California Authority of Racing Fairs. Swartzlander, who served 21 years in the U.S. Army, retiring as a lieutenant colonel, has been with CARF for 15 years, serving in facility management and racing operations as director of racing and chief operating officer before taking over as interim executive director upon the retirement of Chris Korby in November 2016. A graduate of the University of Arizona’s Race Track Industry Program and the University of Southern California, Swartzlander developed CARF’s racetrack safety and maintenance program and its out-of-state recruitment program. Swartzlander, who also is a horse owner, said the fairs will not decrease purses or stakes in 2018. “The model of the fairs will be purses, purses, purses,” he said. “Trainer incentives have been helpful, but purses are a key.” Swartzlander said CARF has begun a recruiting process for California businesses with the goal of raising... ...

ARCADIA, Calif. (Dec. 7, 2017) — The California Thoroughbred Breeders Association thanks the many stallion owners for their donations that made the Thursday night Annual Stallion Season Auction a success. Proceeds from the auction by law go strictly toward the lobbying expenses of the CTBA, working in support of legislation that favorably impacts California Thoroughbred breeders. The sale featured seasons donated by these farms: Ballena Vista Farm, Barton Thoroughbreds, Blue Diamond Farm, BG Thoroughbreds, Daehling Ranch, Flag Is Up Farms, Harris Farms, Lovacres Ranch, Bean Acres, Old English Rancho, Rancho San Miguel, Rancho Temescal, Ridgeley Farm, Special T Thoroughbreds, Tommy Town Thoroughbreds, Victory Rose Thoroughbreds and Woodbridge Farm. ...

From Barretts POMONA, Calif. (Dec. 7, 2017) – The Barretts January Mixed Sale catalog is now online at www.barretts.com. The sale will be held at the Finish Line Sports Grill in Pomona, on Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2018, at 11 a.m. Additional horses will be added in the catalog supplement that closes on January 3, 2018. The Supplemental Entry form can be found here. ...

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Dec. 6, 2017)–Five finalists for one of American racing’s most prestigious honors, the Santa Anita George Woolf Memorial Jockey Award, have been announced, with the winner to be revealed in February following a vote of jockeys nationwide. Jockeys Alex Birzer, Javier Castellano, Jose Ferrer, Rodney Prescott and Joe Talamo are the finalists for the prestigious trophy that has been presented annually by Santa Anita since 1950. One of the most coveted awards in all of racing, the Woolf Award, which can only be won once, is presented to a different jockey each year and it recognizes those riders whose careers and personal character earn esteem for the individual and the sport of Thoroughbred racing. The trophy is a replica of the life-sized statue of legendary jockey George Woolf, which adorns Santa Anita’s Paddock Gardens area. Woolf, who died at the age of 35 following a spill on Santa Anita’s Club House turn on Jan. 3, 1946, was regarded as one of the top big-money... ...

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Dec. 1, 2017)–Santa Anita Park has announced that it will be offering a couple of new and innovative race conditions in an effort to stimulate entries and boost pari-mutuel handle, effective opening day of its Winter/Spring Meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 26. With full fields for gamblers and more opportunities for horsemen of paramount concern, Santa Anita has instituted the following changes: –Restricted Maiden Special Weight Races for two and three-year-olds. These races will be available to homebreds and horses that have been sold at public auction for $100,000 or less. (Purses on all maiden special weight races, restricted or otherwise, will be the same). –Restricted claiming races of $20,000 or less, for 3-year-olds and up will be offered to trainers who have 20 stalls or less. “The goal with both of these race conditions is to try and open up our game to those owners and horsemen who are breeding, claiming and buying at auction, but often face limited opportunities to protect their investments... ...

From TOC ALBANY, Calif. (Dec. 2, 2017) — All horsemen are invited to TOC’s FREE Member Q&A at Golden Gate Fields in the Bayview Lounge on Sunday, December 10, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. Meet Racing Secretaries Patrick Mackey and Tom Doutrich and learn all you need to know about entries and carding races. To register, click here, or call 626-574-6620. ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Nov. 30, 2017) — The Jockey Club reminds Thoroughbred breeders that digital foal certificates will be replacing hard copies of foal certificates beginning with the 2018 foal crop. The transition to digital foal certificates was first announced at the Round Table Conference on Matters Pertaining to Racing on August 14, 2016. Breeders, as well as those who act as agents for breeders, who do not already have an Interactive Registration account should sign up for one at registry.jockeyclub.com. “We encourage those who manage Certificates of Foal Registration to sign up for an Interactive Registration account between now and early 2018 if they have not already done so,” said Matt Iuliano, executive vice president and executive director of The Jockey Club. “The use of digital foal certificates will allow foal papers to be easily transferred between entities at the click of a button, and we are looking forward to implementing this much-needed change.” “We applaud The Jockey Club for pursuing this digital initiative which, given the... ...

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Nov. 21, 2017) — With its traditional Winter Meet opener looming on Tuesday, Dec. 26, Santa Anita Park has announced a first-ever “Ship and Stay” program, that is intended to attract out-of-state horsemen and to incentivize them to keep running in California throughout the new year. Funded solely by Santa Anita and The Stronach Group (TSG), the “Ship and Stay” program is patterned after Del Mar’s successful “Ship and Win” program and provides on-going bonuses to individual trainers and owners who bring horses to Santa Anita from out of state. Bonuses will be paid to the connections who originally brought them to California for their first three starts. These bonuses will be paid even if the horse is claimed. “This is a new day for us here at Santa Anita on several fronts,” said Santa Anita Vice President of Racing, Rick Hammerle. “Field size is a major concern for us and by undertaking this new program, we’re hoping to be able to shore up... ...

By Los Angeles Times LOS ANGELES, Calif. (Nov. 19, 2017) — The Los Angeles Times is now offering a free email newsletter devoted to horse racing, including each day’s entries and charts. Sign up here: http://www.latimes.com/newsletters/la-newsletter-racing-signup-page-htmlstory.html#nws=mcnewsletter   ...

From CHRB DEL MAR, Calif. (Nov. 17, 2017) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, November 16, at Del Mar Race Track. Chairman Chuck Winner presided. Vice Chairman Madeline Auerbach and Commissioners Jesse Choper, Fred Maas, Araceli Ruano and Alex Solis also were in attendance. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: The Board shifted one week of fair racing from Santa Rosa to Sacramento after the Sonoma County Fair Board voted to delay by one week the start of its annual fair (i.e. carnival and events). As a result, Cal Expo will offer three weeks of racing in in conjunction with the State Fair beginning July 11, 2018. Santa Rosa will offer two weeks of racing beginning August 1, both weeks in conjunction with their fair. The Board conditionally approved the license application for the Los Angeles Turf Club to conduct a race meet at Santa Anita Park from December 20 (racing scheduled to... ...

From DMTC Publicity DEL MAR, Calif. (Nov. 14, 2017) — Iconic horse racing announcer Trevor Denman will become one of two members of the Southern California Sports Broadcasters Hall of Fame when he is inducted at the 27th annual SCSB Awards Luncheon on Jan. 22, 2018, at Lakeside Golf Club in Toluca Lake. The other inductee will be longtime Laker TV commentator Stu Lantz. He and Denman will become the 36th and 37th members of the SCSB Hall of Fame. Denman, 65, revolutionized race commentary after coming from South Africa to Southern California in 1983 and working at all three of the area’s major racetracks – Santa Anita, the now-defunct Hollywood Park and Del Mar. He retired from Santa Anita in December 2015 but still calls races at Del Mar. Denman’s approach to calling races involves not only describing the position of the runners but adding in-race commentary. One of his most familiar phrases is “moving like a winner.” His most memorable call – among the thousands he did – came when then-undefeated... ...

From TOC ARCADIA, Calif. (Oct. 26, 2017) – The California Marketing Committee (CMC) launched a new communications program today, Cal Racing Cares (CalRacingCares.com), to increase public awareness of the industry’s comprehensive equine health and safety initiatives.   Cal Racing Cares includes a website, video and digital content that detail extensive equine safety and welfare measures, thoroughbred aftercare, training and veterinary policies along with other ongoing care and safety measures.   “Thoroughbreds in training in California receive a tremendous amount of care and handling every day. There is a strong industry-wide commitment in our state to continuously improve equine health, safety and aftercare.While most industry participants understand all the things that we do to care for these amazing athletes, the CMC and the tracks, fairs and horsemen that we represent felt like we needed to provide a platform where fans and the general public could learn more,” said Greg Avioli,Chairman of the CMC and President of the Thoroughbred Owners of California. “We have created Cal Racing Cares to be a place... ...

From The Jockey Club The Jockey Club today released Report of Mares Bred (RMB) statistics for the 2017 breeding season. Based on RMBs received through October 17, 2017, The Jockey Club reports that 1,342 stallions covered 31,863 mares in North America during 2017.   Based upon historical reporting trends, The Jockey Club estimates an additional 2,000 to 3,000 mares will be reported as bred during the 2017 breeding season.   The number of stallions declined 5.7% from the 1,423 reported at this time in 2016, and the number of mares bred decreased 5.6% from the 33,746 reported last year. The number of stallions covering 125 or more mares decreased from 64 in 2016 to 60 in 2017.   Further book size analysis shows a 3.3% decrease in the number of mares bred to stallions with a book size of 125 or more in 2017 when compared to 2016 as reported at this time last year; a 13.0% decrease in mares bred to stallions with a book size between 100 and... ...

CYPRESS, Calif. (Oct. 6, 2017) – The Los Alamitos Winter Meet stakes schedule includes the $100,000 Soviet Problem for fillies and mares on Saturday, Dec. 2, and the $100,000 King Glorious for 2-year-olds on Saturday, Dec. 16, both races for Golden State Series eligibles. Four stakes at the meet are for 2-year-olds – including a pair of Grade I races. The 12-day season will begin Thursday, Nov. 30 and continue through Sunday, Dec. 17. The $300,000-guaranteed Los Alamitos CashCall Futurity and the $300,000-guaranteed Starlet – for fillies – will be renewed on Saturday, Dec. 9. Won a year ago by the Bob Baffert-trained Mastery, the Futurity – like the Starlet – will be contested at 1 1/16 miles. Among the nominees to the Futurity are Del Mar Juvenile Turf winner Encumbered, multiple stakes winner Run Away and St Patrick’s Day, a full brother to 2015 Triple Crown winner American Pharoah. Nominees for the Starlet, which was won a year ago by the Simon Callaghan-trained Abel Tasman, include Del Mar Debutante... ...

From Race Track Chaplaincy LEXINGTON, Ky. (Oct. 5, 2017) – A hero is a person who is admired for courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities.  There are heroes all around the horse racing industry and the Race Track Chaplaincy of America (RTCA) recognizes some of these selfless servants through its White Horse Awards.  Established in 2003, the White Horse Awards recognizes individuals within the horse racing industry for their acts of selflessness and bravery. This year’s White Horse Awards ceremony will be held on Thursday, November 2, at 11 a.m. PST, at Del Mar Racetrack in Del Mar, California in conjunction with the Breeders’ Cup World Championships week.  Hall of Fame jockey Pat Day will be the featured guest speaker.  The honorees are as follows: White Horse Award – Angie Cheak:  Co-founder and Executive Director of the Equine Sanctuary Center of Kentucky (ESCofKY), Angie is a strong presence in equine neglect and abuse cases throughout Central Kentucky. The most notable case to-date was Angie’s work in caring for, re-training, and... ...

From CHRB CYPRESS, Calif. (Sept. 29, 2017) – The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, September 28, at Los Alamitos Race Course. Chairman Chuck Winner presided. Vice Chair Madeline Auerbach and Commissioners Jesse Choper, Fred Maas, Araceli Ruano and Alex Solis also were in attendance. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: Chairman Winner began the meeting by announcing that George Krikorian completed his term as a racing commissioner and stated that Krikorian’s departure is a loss to the Board and the racing industry. The chairman then welcomed newly appointed Commissioner Fred Maas and expressed confidence that he will be a strong addition to the Board. Commissioner Maas fills the seat vacated by Steve Beneto. Executive Director Rick Baedeker reported that handle at all California tracks increased by 8.3 percent in August, compared with August 2016. The Board allocated 2018 racing dates for the Southern California thoroughbred and fair racing circuit that duplicate the... ...

By DRF.com CYPRESS, Calif. (Sept. 28, 2017) — The California Horse Racing Board approved racing dates for the 2018 Southern California Thoroughbred circuit similar to this year at its monthly meeting on Thursday, but did not take action on the Northern California circuit after a disquieting 90-minute discussion about the state of the county fair circuit. Specific racing dates for Del Mar, Los Alamitos and Santa Anita on the Southern California circuit will be announced at the racing board’s next meeting, on Oct. 26 at Santa Anita. Racing board officials announced that Northern California racing dates will be awarded at that meeting. During the lengthy discussion on Thursday regarding Northern California dates, several speakers from Golden Gate Fields, county fairs, and horsemen’s organizations argued for a variety of positions, ranging from more racing dates at Golden Gate Fields during the summer, giving certain fairs more dates during specific weeks from July to early September, and a decline in handle at county fair meetings. Golden Gate Fields holds a majority of... ...

POMONA, Calif. (Sept. 26, 2017) – A weanling filly from the last crop of Unusual Heat and a weanling filly by Square Eddie are among the California-foaled offerings in the dispersal of J & M Thoroughbreds at the Barretts Fall Sale on Tuesday, Oct. 17, in Pomona. The dispersal includes many individuals closely related to La Traviata, a multiple Grade I producer. Also included are six in-foal broodmares. ...

From TOC ALBANY, Calif. (Sept. 21, 2017) — Thoroughbred Owners of California (TOC) invites all members to the Northern California Annual Meeting on Saturday, October 21, at Golden Gate Fields. The general business meeting will allow directors an opportunity to bring the membership up to date on important issues and will include a question-and-answer session. The business meeting will begin at 10:00 a.m. and will be followed by a buffet lunch. The Handicapping Contest will begin at 1:00 p.m. Reservations for both events are required and can be made by calling (626) 574-6620 or by following the links below: To register for the Northern Annual Meeting, click http://www.toconline.com/events/northern-california-annual-meeting-2/. To register for the Northern Handicapping Contest, click http://www.toconline.com/events/northern-california-toc-owners-challenge-handicapping-contest/. ...

POMONA, Calif. (Sept. 15, 2017) – The Barretts Fall Sale of Yearlings and Horses of Racing Age will be held Tuesday, Oct. 17, at 11 a.m. at the Finish Line Sports Grill in Pomona. Among the sires of the 213 yearlings already cataloged are Animal Kingdom, Bluegrass Cat, Boisterous, Can the Man, Creative Cause, Declaration of War, First Sumarai, Ghostzapper, Goldencents, Lucky Pulpit, Macho Uno, Magician, Midnight Lute, Midshipman, Mineshaft, Mucho Macho Man, Munnings, Noble Mission, Overanalyze, Revolutionary, Shackleford, Shanghai Bobby, Smiling Tiger, Square Eddie, Tapizar, The Factor, Trappe Shot, Twirling Candy, Unusual Heat, Violence and Vronsky. Among the covering stallions of 35 broodmares already cataloged are Acclamation, Afleet Alex, Alternation, Artie Schiller, Commissioner, Competitive Edge, Creative Cause, Grazen, Run Away and Hide, Smiling Tiger, Stay Thirsty, Upstart and Wicked Strong. Also include weanlings by Boisterous, Smiling Tiger, Square Eddie and Unusual Heat. ...

January Mixed Sale To be held in Pomona, California Sale Date: Wednesday, January 17, 2018 Early Bird Entry Deadline: Monday, November 6, 2017 Entry Deadline: Friday, November 17, 2017 Supplemental Entries Close: January 3, 2018   Spring Two-Year-Olds in Training Sale To be held in Del Mar, California Sale Date: Wednesday, April 4, 2018 Training Preview: Monday, April 2, 2018 Early Bird Entry Deadline: Friday, January 12, 2018 Entry Deadline: Friday, January 26, 2018 Supplemental Entries Close: Wednesday, March 21, 2018   The Paddock Sale of Race Ready Horses To be held in Del Mar, California Training Preview: Monday, July 23, 2018 Sale Date: Wednesday, July 25, 2018   August Select Yearling Sale To be held in Del Mar, California Sale Date: Tuesday, August 28, 2018 Nominations Close: April 13, 2018   Fall Sale of Yearlings and Horses of All Ages To be held in Pomona, California Sale Date: Tuesday, October 16, 2018 Early Entries Close: August 24 , 2018 Entries Close: August 31, 2018 Supplemental Entries Close: October 2,... ...

CYPRESS, Calif. (Sept. 8, 2017) – California stallion Allaboutdreams was represented by his first winner on Thursday when Trickonomics won the first race at Los Alamitos. The 3-year-old gelding is out of the Abaginone mare Trickey Diva, was bred by Charlie Robin, is owned by Lan Ding and Robin and trained by Jeff Bonde. He ran the 5 ½ furlongs in 1:04.10 and won by three-quarters of a length at odds of 2-1 in the field of seven. ...

From TOBA LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 30, 2017) – Heinz Steinmann was named 2017 California Breeder of the Year by the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association. Spendthrift Farm was named Western Regional Owner of the Year by the association. The winners will receive their awards at the TOBA National Awards Dinner, which will be held on Saturday, September 9 at Calumet Farm in Lexington, Ky. ...

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 30, 2017) – Clay Murdock of Rancho San Miguel is a finalist for the second annual North American edition of the Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards. The finalists for the other awards will be recognized at an awards ceremony luncheon Oct. 13 at Keeneland. The awards are sponsored by Godolphin, in partnership with the National Horsemens’ Benevolent and Protective Association, Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association, and The Jockey Club. For the leadership award in the farm category, the finalists are Murdock, Larry McGinnis (WinStar Farm), and Aidan O’Meara (Hill ‘n’ Dale). For the racing stable category, the finalists are Richard Budge (WinStar), Christophe Lorieul (Christophe Clement), and Hilary Pridham (Michael Stidham). For the dedication to breeding award, the finalists are Francisco “Pancho” Sanchez (Craig Wheeler Thoroughbreds), Ronda Clifton (WinStar), and Lugusta “Gus” Gray (Double Diamond Farm). In the racing category, the finalists are Lena Lorieul (Shug McGaughey), Manuel Osoria-Perez (Chris Stenslie), and Raymond Davenport (Timothy L. Keefe). ...

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Aug. 29, 2017) — Fredric Maas, 59, of San Diego, has been appointed to the California Horse Racing Board of Directors. Maas has been executive chairman at MRV Systems since 2014. He was founder and chief executive officer at Pacific EcoCompanies LLC from 2009 to 2014, president and chief executive officer at Black Mountain Ranch LLC from 2003 to 2009 and chairman and chief executive officer at Centre City Development Corporation from 2005 to 2010. This position requires Senate confirmation and the compensation is $100 per diem. Maas is a Republican. ...

From CHRB DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 25, 2017) – The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, August 24, at Del Mar Race Track. Chairman Chuck Winner presided. First Vice Chair George Krikorian, Second Vice Chair Madeline Auerbach and Commissioners Jesse Choper, Araceli Ruano and Alex Solis also were in attendance. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: ·        Chairman Winner began the meeting with a dedication to Brad McKinzie, the longtime executive at Los Alamitos Racecourse and a principal in the Finish Line Insurance Group, who passed away August 6 from cancer at the age of 62. CHRB Executive Director Rick Baedeker, a longtime friend of Mr. McKinzie, said that he will be remembered for solving two of California’s biggest problems: the workers’ compensation insurance crisis in 2004 and, more recently, the stabling shortage caused by the closing of Hollywood Park. “Brad was our voice of reason but, far more important, he was the... ...

By Bloodhorse.com AUBURN, Wash. (Aug. 23, 2017) — A colt by California stallion Smiling Tiger  was sold for $67,000 to top the Washington Thoroughbred Breeders and Owners Association’s summer yearling and mixed sale Aug. 22 in Auburn, Wash., that saw across-the-board declines. WTBOA reported 92 yearlings grossed $1,204,600, down 15.8% from the $1,431,400 total paid for 84 head in 2016, with the average price falling 23.1% to $13,093 from $17,040, and a median price of $7,500 that was half the $15,000 figure a year ago. The sale topper, consigned as Hip 92 by Halvorson Bloodstock Services, was bought by John and Janene Maryanski. Bred in Washington by John Roche, the colt was produced from the stakes-winning Supremo mare Premo Copy, who has produced seven winners, including Washington state champion 3-year-old filly Castinette Dancer and stakes winner Seattles Best Copy. Soft Copy, the colt’s second dam, was purchased by Roche for $4,200 from McMurry Bloodstock Agency at the 1985 WTBOA winter mixed sale and went on to Washington championship honors while winning... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 12, 2017) — The Jockey Club is projecting a 2018 North American registered Thoroughbred foal crop of 21,500. The 21,500 foals estimated for 2018 is a 4.4% decrease from the 2017 foal crop projection of 22,500 that was announced in August 2016. “As always, this projection is based on reports of mares bred received to date, and we estimate that approximately 85% of those reports have been received,” said Matt Iuliano, The Jockey Club’s executive vice president and executive director. The foal crop projection, traditionally announced in mid-August, is computed by using Reports of Mares Bred (RMBs) received to date for the 2017 breeding season. RMBs are to be filed by August 1 of each breeding season. Additional foal crop information is available in The Jockey Club’s online fact book at jockeyclub.com/factbook.asp and in the online state fact books. Stallion owners who have not returned their RMBs for the 2017 breeding season are encouraged to do so as soon as possible. Interactive RegistrationTM,... ...

From TOBA SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. — The Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association announced today the re-election of Dr. J. David Richardson as chairman of its Board of Trustees.  Also joining Richardson on the Board of Trustees to serve three-year terms as new members are Robert Devlin, Terry Finley, Bernard McCormack, Charlie O’Connor and Garrett O’Rourke. Re-elected to three-year terms were current trustees Barbara Banke, Mike Caruso, Brant Laue, Michael McMahon and Kenneth McPeek. “I am honored to be re-elected as TOBA chairman,” said Dr. Richardson. “Our board of trustees and the TOBA membership represent an important constituency and we look forward to working with other industry stakeholders to improve the economics and integrity of the sport.” Immediately following its annual members meeting, the TOBA Board of Trustees met to elect officers for the 1,800-member association.  Officers named for 2017-2018 are: Dr. J. David Richardson, chairman, Everett Dobson, vice-chairman, Dan Metzger, president; Michael McMahon, secretary; and Craig Bernick, treasurer. The TOBA Board also approved the reappointment of Craig Bernick to the... ...

From CHRB DEL MAR, Calif. (July 22, 2017) – The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, July 20, at Del Mar Race Track. Chairman Chuck Winner presided. First Vice Chair George Krikorian, Second Vice Chair Madeline Auerbach and Commissioners Jesse Choper, Araceli Ruano and Alex Solis also were in attendance. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: •           Executive Director Rick Baedeker described significant steps being taken by the CHRB, Del Mar management and other stakeholders to protect horses and riders. In addition to major improvements to the racing surface and maintenance procedures, an increased number of Official Veterinarians and CHRB safety personnel working with track veterinarians are scrutinizing horses entered in races as well as other horses training in the mornings. Horses deemed unfit will not be permitted to run. A complete list of safeguards is posted on the CHRB Website. •           Rick Baedeker also announced that several new videos focusing on safety... ...

By Bloodhorse.com DEL MAR, Calif. (July 21, 2017) –For the second time in 2017, the California Horse Racing Board’s Race Dates Committee bandied about the idea of restricting the amount of racing dates in the state, and again roundly faced opposition by industry stakeholders in attendance. In May, the Race Dates Committee discussed the radical idea of a single circuit in the state, rather than separate circuits in the northern and southern regions. On July 21 at Del Mar proposed calendars featuring new “dark days” (dates in 2017 that would not run in future years) on the Southern California circuit were presented. BALAN: CHRB Discusses Creating Single California Circuit CHRB executive director Rick Baedeker presented three calendars that would cut down 18-19 racing days, with the target of increased field size as the main objective. “The commissioners asked for new ideas—fresh ideas,” Baedeker said. “I decided to come at this from the perspective of the racing fan and the racehorse. It’s been said here that the last year (has been)... ...

From NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 21, 2017) — A document outlining upcoming federal regulatory actions released Thursday, July 20, 2017 by The White House indicates that modernized tax guidance relating to withholding and reporting of pari-mutuel winnings is nearing enactment. The “Current Unified Agenda of Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions” describes the Amendment of 3402(q) Regulations providing new rules for pari-mutuel wagering as in the “Final Rule Stage.” The regulation, detailed by the Internal Revenue Service and U.S. Treasury in the December 30, 2016 Federal Register in a section titled “Withholding on Payments of Certain Gambling Winnings,” accomplishes goals started and spearheaded by the NTRA three years ago. “We are pleased to see this latest indication that the regulation continues to make its way toward final approval,” said NTRA President & CEO Alex Waldrop. “We take nothing for granted, though, and will continue to work closely with our allies in Washington, D.C., to get this important change completed. We urge Treasury and the IRS to act quickly so horseplayers, the racing... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (July 20, 2017) — The Jockey Club reminds stallion managers to submit their Reports of Mares Bred (RMBs) for the 2017 breeding season by August 1. “We want the breeding statistics we release in the fall to be as accurate as possible, so we request that RMBs be submitted by August 1,” said Matt Iuliano, executive vice president and executive director of The Jockey Club. In addition, stallion managers who submit their RMBs by August 1 are among the first to receive their Stallion Service Certificates, which facilitates the timely registration of 2018 foals. Reports of Mares Bred may be submitted via Interactive Registration at registry.jockeyclub.com or a form is available by email, fax, or mail by contacting inquiries@jockeyclub.com. ...

From Paulick Report DEL MAR, Calif. (July 14, 2017)– The Edwin J. Gregson Foundation is delighted to announce that it will host a charity fundraising dinner honoring two of California’s greats, trainers Jerry Hollendorfer and Art Sherman. The event will take place on Tuesday, August 22, at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar Resort, located just a few miles south of Del Mar Racetrack. This dinner marks year seventeen of fundraising activities spearheaded by Jenine Sahadi, president of the Edwin J. Gregson Foundation. “We look forward to a fabulous evening celebrating Jerry and Art for their long and remarkable careers in thoroughbred horse racing. Good friends throughout their careers, they greatly deserve being celebrated for the excitement and richness they have each brought to this sport,” says Sahadi. Among the Gregson Foundation’s past honorees are trainers Bob Baffert, Jack Van Berg, Ron McAnally, Mel Stute, and the late Warren Stute, in addition to such industry leaders as Ann and Jerry Moss, Mace and Samantha Siegel, Dr. Jack Robbins, and Joe and... ...

From Barretts DEL MAR, Calif. (July 13, 2017) — The catalog for the Sixth Annual Paddock Sale at Del Mar of Race Ready Horses, scheduled to be held on Wednesday, July 26 in the Del Mar paddock approximately 30 minutes after the last race is declared official, is now on-line.  This catalog currently consists of 14 horses of racing age and 21 two-year-olds. Additional horses are expected to be entered prior to sale time (check back at Barretts.com).  Information including pedigree, complete past performances and a recent race video, if applicable, for each horse can be found in a searchable and/or sortable format here. Among the horses of racing age in the sale are three-year-old Aristocratic, who earlier this year won the Listed San Pedro Stakes at Santa Anita, as well as Grade 3 winner Home Run Hitter.   Additional horses are expected to start prior to the sale. The depth and quality of the unraced two-year-olds in the catalog has increased substantially this year and currently includes two-year-olds by such... ...

By Bloodhorse.com GEORGETOWN, Ky. (July 6, 2017) — Multiple grade 1 winner and former California stallion Tinners Way was euthanized July 5 at Old Friends, the Thoroughbred Retirement Farm in Georgetown, KY., where he had been pensioned since 2010. The son of Secretariat was 27. Old Friends resident veterinarian Dr. Bryan Waldridge attributed the cause of death to acute onset of a severe neurologic disease, adding that “Tinner had been treated in the past for EPM, and he did have some lingering neurologic effects from a previous infection.” Bred and owned by Juddmonte Farms, Tinners Way began his career in Europe, where he won three of his seven starts in England and France. After coming stateside as a 4-year-old, Tinners Way joined the barn of California-based Hall of Fame trainer Bobby Frankel, and under his watchful eye the striking chestnut won the 1994 $1 million Pacific Classic Stakes (G1), beating future Hall of Famer Best Pal and posting a record-equaling mile and a quarter of 1:59 2/5. Tinners Way had a... ...

By Bloodhorse.com CYPRESS, Calif. (July 5, 2017) — The National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) announced July 5 that Los Alamitos Race Course has earned reaccreditation from the NTRA Safety & Integrity Alliance for its Thoroughbred race meet. Los Alamitos received its initial Alliance accreditation in 2014. All accreditations and reaccreditations carry an effective period of two years. The summer Thoroughbred meeting will begin July 6 and continue through July 16. The Summer Meet is one of three stands for Thoroughbred racing at the Los Angeles-area track, along with the Los Angeles County Fair and the Winter Meet. The reaccreditation of Los Alamitos was the culmination of a lengthy process that hosted several meetings with Alliance officials. An on-site review included inspections of all facets of the racing facility. Interviews were conducted with race track executives, racetrack personnel, jockeys, owners, trainers, veterinarians and stewards. The inspection team was comprised of Dr. Jennifer Durenberger, DVM, veterinary and regulatory consultant and steward at Canterbury Park, with past experiences as a state veterinarian, track veterinarian... ...

From TOC DEL MAR, Calif. (June 25, 2017) — TOC, Del Mar Racetrack and Barretts Sales Present: A Free New Owner Seminar and Preview of the Paddock Sale Sunday, July 22, 2017 at 9:00 a.m. Del Mar racetrack-Veranda Cafe Come listen to a panel of experts discuss acquiring horses at auction and through private sales, claiming horses, and joining racehorse partnerships and syndicates. The seminar will include a tour of the Barretts Sales barns, where participants will get a preview of the horses entered in that evening’s Paddock Sale. Mark your calendars now for this special event. To register, please click here http://www.toconline.com/events/new-owner-seminar/ or call us at (626) 574-6620. ...

From DMTC DEL MAR, Calif. (June 23, 2017) — Del Mar’s wagering menu comes with its usual full-range of betting options for 2017 and again is expected to attract some of the highest pools in racing. But additionally this year the track will include a special Pick Six bet sure to add extra buzz and further enhance one the foremost racing cards of the year, the $1-million TVG Pacific Classic Day on Saturday, August 19. The 36-day racing season, which begins on Wednesday, July 19, will have 14 different types of wagers available to fans throughout the summer, starting with the traditional win, place and show bets and expanding out to several five- and six-horse combinations. The new twist in the format comes in the presentation of a mandatory Pick Six payout that – instead of being offered only on closing day – also will be on the menu for TVG Pacific Classic Day, allowing for the track’s traditionally biggest wagering afternoon to grow bigger still with the potential of... ...

From CHRB ARCADIA, Calif. (June 23, 2017) – The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, June 22, at Santa Anita Park. First Vice Chair George Krikorian presided. Second Vice Chair Madeline Auerbach and Commissioners Jesse Choper, Araceli Ruano and Alex Solis also were in attendance. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: The Board approved licenses for five Advance Deposit Wagering companies –NYRAbets.com, Twinspires.com/Bet America, WatchandWager.com, XpressBet and TVG – for 18 months. By the time those licenses are up for renewal at the end of 2018, the CHRB plans to have an amended license application in place requiring ADW companies to provide more extensive financial information specific to their California operations. The Board approved the license for the Los Alamitos Racing Association to conduct a daytime thoroughbred race meet at Los Alamitos from July 5 through July 18 on condition that LARA submit all required documents to the CHRB by June 30. The... ...

By BloodHorse.com SAN DIEGO, Calif. (June 22, 2017) — Veteran jockey agent Ivan Puhich died June 19 at age 89, according to a statement from Santa Anita Park June 22. “Big Ivan”—as he was affectionately known from his early days at Longacres in Renton, Wash., to Agua Caliente Racetrack in Tijuana, Mexico—was retired for several years and living with his daughter in San Diego, Calif. Born Dec. 22, 1927 in St. Helena, Calif., and raised in Renton, Puhich during his youth followed older brothers Nick and Stan to the track, where he sold newspapers, mucked stalls, and walked hots. With the outbreak of World War II, Ivan enlisted in the Marine Corps and saw combat in the South Pacific and in China. Following the war and upon his return to base in San Diego, he obtained permission from his commanding officer to take leave to attend the 1948 Kentucky Derby. “I’ll never forget it,” Puhich said during an interview in 1994 at Hollywood Park. “I hitchhiked back there in uniform... ...

From TOC ARCADIA, Calif. (June 22, 2017) –The Thoroughbred Owners of California (TOC) promoted Elizabeth Morey to the position of Director of Racing and Northern California Operations, effective immediately. “Elizabeth is one of the brightest young talents I have seen in my two decades in the industry,” said TOC President and CEO, Greg Avioli. “She is smart, hard-working, always prepared, and has earned the respect of our racetrack partners throughout California.” Morey joined TOC in July 2016 as Northern California Liaison. In addition to overseeing the operations of the TOC in Northern California, her role quickly expanded to encompass oversight of the organization’s racing affairs. She is staff lead on the TOC Racing Affairs Committee, working with the California racing secretaries to implement purse agreements and tracking and analyzing handle and revenue trends. A life-long equestrian, Morey worked as an exercise rider in college and after graduating worked as a liaison between horsemen and the CARMA Thoroughbred retirement program. She came to the TOC with a wide variety of hands-on experience... ...

From TOC ARCADIA, Calif. (June 22, 2017) — TOC’s membership re-elected incumbents Mark Dedomenico, Gary Fenton, Mike Harrington, Terry Lovingier, Jack Owens, and Bill Strauss to its Board of Directors. Dedomenico, Fenton, Harrington, Lovingier, and Strauss were elected to three-year terms, and Owens was elected to a two-year term. The new Board officially takes office on July 1st. Dedomenico has served on the board since 2011 and is chair of the Medication & Integrity Committee.  Fenton, who is active on the Wagering and Owner Relations committees, was appointed to fill a board vacancy in September 2016. Harrington, who was elected to his third term, is one of five owner-trainer representatives on the board, serves on the Racing Affairs and Medication committees, and is an at-large member of the Executive Committee. Lovingier, who has served on the board since 2013, chairs the Owner Relations Committee and serves on the Racing Affairs Committee. Owens was elected to the board in TOC’s initial election and has served several terms since then including three... ...

From Barretts DEL MAR, (June 8, 2017) — The sale date for the sixth annual Barretts Paddock Sale at Del Mar, originally scheduled for Sunday, July 30 has been moved forward to Wednesday, July 26 following the day’s racing. The undertack preview is now scheduled for Monday, July 24 after morning training. According to the General Manager Kim Lloyd, the new format will enhance the sales experience for all involved. “Wednesday is a short race day with eight races and having the preview on a dark day allows unraced sales entries to be showcased at a time convenient for both buyers and trainers. All horses catalogued must be “Race Ready” and able to work 3/8 of a mile or farther.” “The date adjustments are part of an evolving process to restructure the sales calendar at Del Mar to better serve our buyers, consignors and the California racing industry in the best way possible,” Lloyd continued. Successful graduates produced from last year’s sale include California-bred juvenile champion California Diamond, a stakes... ...

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, CALIF. (June 2, 2017) — The State of California has officially approved rules establishing that race-day medication must be administered by independent veterinary professionals – further aligning California with the national uniform medication program. The California Office of Administrative Law advised the California Horse Racing Board on Thursday that amendments to CHRB Rules 1433 and 1845, which the Board approved in April, have passed review and can now go into effect, with full implementation expected later this year California joins 20 states across the nation that have adopted the policy governing third-party Lasix, which was developed by the Racing Medication and Testing Consortium (RMTC) and is a key component of the National Uniform Medication Policy promulgated by the Association of Racing Commissioners International (ARCI). Lasix, generically furosemide, will be the only authorized bleeder medication and the only medication that can be administered to horses on the day they race. Lasix must be administered by Board-approved independent veterinarians within certain timeframes, methods, and doses, and the syringes used... ...

From DMTC Publicity DEL MAR, Calif. (May 31, 2017) — The Breeders’ Cup today announced the official distances of the 13 races comprising the 2017 Breeders’ Cup World Championships, which will be held, for the first time, at the Del Mar racetrack in Del Mar, Calif., on November 3-4.   There are two races which will be run at a different distance this year than in 2016 due to Del Mar track configurations. The Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint (G1) will be run at five furlongs (6 ½ furlongs in 2016) and the Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Turf (G1) will be run at 1 1/8 miles (1 ¼ miles in 2016).   The 34th Breeders’ Cup World Championships, which will be held during the Bing Crosby meeting at Del Mar, will feature total purses and awards of over $29 million, including a robust undercard of supporting races over the two days. The meet opens on Wednesday, November 1. The Del Mar barn area will open on Sunday, October 22, and... ...

From CHRB ARCADIA, Calif. (May 26, 2017) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, May 25, at Santa Anita Park. Chairman Chuck Winner presided. First Vice Chair George Krikorian, Second Vice Chair Madeline Auerbach and Commissioners Jesse Choper, Araceli Ruano and Alex Solis also were in attendance. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: The Board approved the license for the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club to operate a race meet at Del Mar from July 19 through September 5. Representatives of Del Mar listed some of the steps they are taking to improve the safety of horses and riders, beginning with a delayed opening to allow more time to get their racing surfaces into excellent condition. Their dual-focus marketing plan will provide more racing-related benefits to frequent visitors, while offering more concerts, food festivals and other major events to the general public. The Board authorized Del Mar to write medication conditions for the... ...

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (May 26, 2017) –In the aftermath of California-bred  Masochistic‘s disqualification from the 2016 TwinSpires Breeders’ Cup Sprint (G1), Del Mar and the Breeders’ Cup asked the California Horse Racing Board May 25 for permission to avoid such an event in the 2017 World Championships. The proposal submitted to the CHRB Thursday at Santa Anita Park asked for the approval of medication-based conditions, specifically conditions that would “prohibit any horse from participating in the (Breeders’ Cup) that tests positive for anabolic steroids and/or any other prohibited substances … within six months of the running of the (Breeders’ Cup) races.” The board approved the request, which was set up by a Feb. 23 CHRB ruling that allows for medication-based eligibility conditions in the state, with the regulatory agency’s approval. The Breeders’ Cup policy follows the model rule approved by the Association of Racing Commissioners last year that calls for any horse who receives an anabolic steroid treatment sit out of racing for at least six months after that administration.... ...

PLEASANTON, Calif. (May 25, 2017) – Entry forms are available online for the 2017 Northern California Yearling and Horses of Racing Age Sale, bot be conducted on Tuesday,  August 15 at Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton, beginning at noon. Entries closing will be on Monday, June 5, 2017. For an online entry form, click https://ctba.com/consignorscontract2017   ...

From TOC PLEASANTON, Calif. (May 25, 2017) — All horsemen are invited to an Open Forum at Pleasanton (Satellite facility, corner of Valley Ave. and Gate 12) on Saturday, June 24 at 10:30 a.m. Meet TOC staff and directors for a discussion of current events and a chance to have your questions answered. Mark your calendars now for this special event.  To register, please call us at (626) 574-6620. ...

From CHRI WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 25, 2017) — The Coalition for Horse Racing Integrity (CHRI) today announced its strong support for the Horseracing Integrity Act of 2017, introduced by U.S. Reps. Andy Barr (R-KY) and Paul Tonko (D-NY) earlier today. The bill, designated H.R. 2651, would require that a uniform, anti-doping and medication control program be developed and enforced by a private, non-profit, self-regulatory organization known as the Horseracing Anti-Doping and Medication Control Authority. The authority would be governed by a board composed of the chief executive officer of the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA), six individuals from the USADA board, and six individuals selected by USADA who have demonstrated expertise in a variety of horse-racing areas. The Federal Trade Commission would have limited oversight of the authority. Polling in recent years has shown widespread support for medication reform through federal legislation. “Representatives Barr and Tonko deeply appreciate the scope and economic impact of horse racing, not only in their home states but across the country, and they should be... ...

From Full Stride Communications (John Norton Photography ) GANSEVOORT, N.Y.—An unusually marked, mostly white colt from the last crop of California Chrome’s sire Lucky Pulpit was foaled on May 19 at Stone Bridge Farm in New York in ongoing fulfillment of a dream sparked in owner/breeder Gary Tolchin when he attended races with his father as a youth.       The colt was delivered by the white mare, Passionforfashion, who Tolchin acquired privately last year after a lengthy search for a white Thoroughbred.      “I always wanted a white horse after I saw one at Aqueduct with my father, Sam Tolchin, when I was growing up. My goal is to continue breeding white horses,” Tolchin said, adding that he intends to keep the newborn colt and eventually place him in training for racing.     Rick Bailey, registrar of The Jockey Club, said it is too soon to determine what color the colt officially will be given when registered. His coloring is similar, although a bit more splashed with chestnut, to that... ...

From CHRB ARCADIA, Calif. (May 19, 2017) — The California Horse Racing Board will conduct its regular monthly meeting Thursday, May 25, at Santa Anita Park beginning at 9:30 a.m. The Race Dates Committee will meet Wednesday, May 24, at 10 a.m. followed by the Medication, Safety and Welfare Committee at 12:30 p.m. All three meetings will be held in the Baldwin Terrace Room and the public is encouraged to attend. An audio-only webcast of the Board meeting can be heard through a link on the CHRB website (webcast). The Board meeting agenda and supporting package of materials also are available on the website, along with the Race Dates Committee agenda and package and the Medication Committee agenda and package. ...

By Bloodhorse.com DEL MAR, Calif. (May 17, 2017) –Two California-breds from Kim McCarthy’s McCarthy Bloodstock Agency brought the highest prices at the Barretts May 2-year-old sale, held May 17 at Del Mar. A son of Animal Kingdom   topped the sale at $245,000, while a daughter of Unusual Heat at $195,000 brought the second-highest price and was the most expensive filly. The average rose 6.7% to $43,978 from $41,229 in 2016. Barretts sold 46 2-year-olds for a gross of $2,023,000. (In both 2016 and 2017, one older horse of racing age was also sold; that figure is not included in these numbers.) The median was $27,500 compared with $27,000 in 2016, when 63 2-year-olds grossed $2,597,400. The buyback rate was 29.2%, with 19 horses through the ring not sold. “We were very pleased, considering the size of the catalog,” said Kim Lloyd, general manager of Barretts. “There was a lot of competition for sellable horses at all spectrums of the market. This is a bread-and-butter sale, and a lot of guys bought horses... ...

ARCADIA, Calif. (May 15, 2017) — California-bred Lost Caper received the California-bred Performance Award sponsored by the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association. The Jockey Club Thoroughbred Incentive Program (TIP) announced a plethora of 2016 performance awards, designed to encourage the retraining of Thoroughbreds for other disciplines after racing. Kathleen Boyle of Utah owns and rides Last Caper, a 9-year-old son of Royal Cat-Mystical Caper, by Town Caper. A.C. Avila bred Lost Caper. The performance awards recognize Thoroughbreds that accumulate the most points at all horse shows in each of the 13 award categories and 77 divisions throughout the year. Winners receive ribbons, prize money, and such items as coolers, saddle pads and jackets. ...

By DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 26, 2017) – With the cancellation of racing at Santa Anita on Thursday because of insufficient entries, track and racing officials plan to meet in an effort to avoid a similar circumstance through the end of the spring-summer meeting on July 4. The track announced last Sunday that there would be no racing Thursday because there were not sufficient runners for eight-race programs on Thursday and Friday. Instead, there will be nine races on Friday only. Track senior vice president Joe Morris said Wednesday that the field size situation is a concern. “The entries are lighter than I would have liked,” he said. “We’ve got to get a conversation started. “I am worried about that. I didn’t expect that to happen.” :: Enjoy news and analysis from DRF? Get handicapping analysis, real-time coverage, special reports, and charts. Unlock access with DRF Plus. Morris said there are approximately 2,800 Thoroughbreds in training in Southern California that race at Santa Anita – about 1,750 at Santa Anita,... ...

By DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 26, 2017) — Regulations allowing racetracks to identify wagers placed ontrack through account-wagering platforms is expected to enhance purses, but the impact will not be known for several months, according to a forum conducted by the Thoroughbred Owners of California last Saturday. Some ontrack customers frequently bet online through mobile devices, such as telephones, laptops, and tablets, instead of through tote machines. For years, track and racing officials have looked on in frustration as those bets were logged as offtrack wagers through account-wagering systems and not recognized as ontrack bets, which provide significantly greater revenue for tracks and horsemen. :: Enjoy news and analysis from DRF? Get handicapping analysis, real-time coverage, special reports, and charts. Unlock access with DRF Plus. Recent action by the California Horse Racing Board will lead to a new distribution of revenue in favor of racetracks, through commissions, and horsemen, through purses, on bets placed at racetracks through mobile devices. The locations of those devices can be tracked to identify whether... ...

From TOC ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 24, 2017) — TOC is offering a FREE “Conformation Clinic” at Santa Anita on Saturday, May 13th. The informal workshop is intended to help participants develop an “eye” for a horse. With the assistance of some expert horsemen, attendees will view a variety of horses and identify their conformation strengths and weaknesses. The workshop will take place in the stable area, so attendees are encouraged to wear suitable footwear. Mark your calendars now for this special event. We look forward to seeing you there! Sign up here: http://www.toconline.com/events/conformation-clinic/ ...

From Barretts DEL MAR, Calif. (Apr. 21, 2017) — The catalog for the 28th Annual Barretts May Two-Year-Olds in Training Sale is now on-line and will be mailed soon.  This auction of 72 two-year-olds will be held on Wednesday, May 17 in the Surfside Raceplace located on the grounds of Del Mar Racetrack in Del Mar, California beginning at 2:00 p.m. PDT.   The sortable catalog can be viewed here now.  Additional information may be found here. The May Sale catalog is also available for your Ipad.  Click here for details. The official training preview is scheduled to be held on Monday, May 15 on the Del Mar racetrack beginning at 10:00 a.m. PDT.   The preview will be streamed live at barretts.com.  Video clips for each preview can be viewed on-line at barretts.com by the next morning. Among the stallions represented in the sales catalog are Alternation, Animal Kingdom, Awesome Patriot, City Zip, Creative Cause, Curlin, Dialed In, Discreet Cat, Distorted Humor, Empire Way, Exchange Rate, Include, Justin Phillip, Kitten’s Joy,... ...

From NTRA LEXINGTON, Ky. (Apr. 12, 2017) – Twelve members of Congress from a number of key racing states have signed a letter delivered to the Department of Treasury requesting that recently proposed Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regulations relating to the way pari-mutuel winnings are calculated for tax withholding and reporting purposes be finalized as soon as possible. The letter was in response to actions taken by the Treasury and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in late December when the Treasury issued proposed regulations relating to withholding and reporting of pari-mutuel winnings. The 31-page Treasury document, entitled “Withholding on Payments of Certain Gambling Winnings,” accomplishes the goals championed by the NTRA nearly three years ago to modernize regulations related to pari-mutuel winnings. The proposed regulations will positively impact a significant percentage of winning wagers, particularly those involving multi-horse or multi-race wagers, and are expected to result in tens of millions of dollars in additional pari-mutuel wagering. The proposed regulations clarify ‘the amount of the wager’ to include the entire amount wagered... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Mar. 10, 2017) — The Jockey Club has produced and made available a three-minute instructional video that illustrates the implantation of microchips, which became a condition of registration starting with foals born in 2017 or later. The video is available on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/USJockeyClub/posts/1367410333345505 and directly at: https://vimeo.com/212142590. It has also been tweeted at https://twitter.com/jockeyclub/status/851465724430348288. ...

From CHRB BERKELEY, CA – The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, April 6, at Golden Gate Fields. Chairman Chuck Winner presided. Second Vice Chair Madeline Auerbach and Commissioners Jesse Choper and Alex Solis also were in attendance. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: ·        The Board approved technical and substantive revisions to a regulatory amendment requiring that race-day authorized bleeder medication be administered by independent, third-party veterinarians. The Office of Administrative Law must approve the revisions before the new regulation goes into effect. ·        Greg Avioli, president of the Thoroughbred Owners of California (TOC), informed the Board that the advance deposit wagering (ADW) provider TwinSpires had not yet fulfilled its contract to provide the precise locations where bets are being made in California, so the horsemen’s group has withdrawn its authorization for Twinspires to accept wagers from California residents on California races. He said the TOC would reinstate TwinSpires whenever they begin... ...

From Richill Farms PHELAN, CALIF. (Apr. 7, 2017) – Empire of D’Nile (Pioneerof the Nile – Beauty School by Private School) sired his first foal when the mare Forest Trees (Forestry – Me Moe You Curly, by Memo) dropped a bay colt on April 7. Richill Farms owners, Richard & Hilary Trower said: “This is the first foal, for both Empire of D’Nile and Forest Trees. The foal is a very leggy and bold bay with a pedigree that includes such horses as  Pioneerof the Nile, Storm Cat, Seattle Slew and carries ten strains of the great La Troienne.” Empire of D’Nile stands at Richill Farms in Phelan, CA. ...

From DMTC DEL MAR, Calif. (Apr. 6, 2017) — Del Mar’s simple, yet highly effective, “Ship and Win” program, where owners and trainers are given incentives to import out-of-state horses to race locally, will be back for its seventh summer at the seaside oval with a notable bonus increase providing even more encouragement to – literally – ship and win. Previously, “S&W” horses received an automatic $1,000 check when they made their first start at Del Mar, along with an additional 30% bonus on top of whatever their purse earnings were in that initial outing. Starting in 2017, though, that automatic check has been enhanced by 50% to $1,500, with the 30% purse bonus continuing to be part of the stimulus formula.  Del Mar’s numbers with the program that originated in 2011 have been impressive. Starting with 107 horses being imported that first summer, the total of “S&W” horses had risen to more than 800 after the 2016 summer session. Further, the track attracted over 100 imports at its three... ...

From The Jockey Club DEL MAR, Calif. (Apr. 3, 2017) — OwnerView announced today that registration is now open for the fourth edition of the Thoroughbred Owner Conference, which is scheduled to take place in Del Mar, Calif., October 30 – November 1, 2017, immediately preceding the Breeders’ Cup World Championships. A limited number of reserved seats are available for the Breeders’ Cup races on both Friday, November 3, and Saturday, November 4, to those attending the conference and will be included with the full registration fee on a first-come, first-served basis. Prospective attendees can register at ownerview.com. Additional information about the conference is also available on that website. “OwnerView once again is excited to partner with Breeders’ Cup and expose owners and prospective owners to two days of championship racing,” said Gary Falter, project manager for OwnerView. “The Breeders’ Cup World Championships provide a grand finale for a conference that caters to people interested in owning Thoroughbred racehorses and experiencing the thrill that accompanies it.” “Based on early ticket... ...

By Bloodhorse.com LEXINGTON, Ky. (Mar. 30, 2017) –Continuing its collaboration to raise funds for important causes, the Breeders’ Cup and Maker’s Mark® announced today that the Edwin J. Gregson Foundation, an organization focused on providing a better quality of life for California’s backstretch workers and their families, and Old Friends Farm, home to some of the most popular retired Thoroughbred race horses, have been named the official charity beneficiaries of the 2017 Breeders’ Cup World Championships. Fans can support these causes and receive a 2017 Maker’s Mark® limited-edition commemorative Cigar bottle by making a donation and attending the Champions for Charity event to be held Breeders’ Cup week in Del Mar, Calif. Event details will be available this summer. Please visit www.BreedersCup.com/ChampionsForCharity for further details. This year’s commemorative bottle honors Cigar (see attached), who won the 1995 Breeders’ Cup Classic and became the first American horse, racing against top-class competition, to win 16 consecutive races since Triple Crown winner Citation did so from 1948-1950. Breeders’ Cup and Maker’s Mark® have... ...

From Richill Farms PHELAN, CA. (Mar. 29, 2017) – California stallion Stimulus Plan (Jump Start – Dutchess Alexandra by Judge Smells) sired his first foal when the winning mare Tudie Pop (Aptitude – Otatha by Miswaki) dropped a bay colt on March. 29. Richill Farms owners’, Richard & Hilary Trower said, “This is the first foal, for both Stimulus Plan and Tudie Pop. He has a classic head and stands up and over a good bit of ground. The foals’ family includes leading sires A.P. Indy, Storm Cat, Miswaki, Buckpasser, and Native Dancer, and carries nine strains of the great La Troienne. Stimulus Plan stands at Richill Farms in Phelan, Calif. ...

CITRUS HEIGHTS, Calif. (Mar. 27, 2017) — Longtime Foothill Farms manager and Thoroughbred owner Walt Trobee passed away on Sunday at Mercy San Juan Hospital. He was 89. The family has announced that there will be no services. ...