LOS ALAMITOS, CA – The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, December 17, at Los Alamitos Race Course. Chairman Chuck Winner presided. Vice Chair Richard Rosenberg and Commissioners Madeline Auerbach, Steve Beneto, Jesse Choper, George Krikorian, 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 a license for the Los Angeles Turf Club to conduct a race meet at Santa Anita Park beginning December 26 through July 10 after industry representatives indicated they had finalized a vanning and stabling agreement for 2016 providing stabling arrangements in Southern California similar to 2015.
· The Board approved a license for the Pacific Racing Association (PRA) to conduct a race meet at Golden Gate Fields beginning December 26 through June 12 after industry representatives outlined various scenarios for vanning and stabling in Northern California that hinge largely on proposed legislation.
· The Board led a discussion of various aspects of fantasy sports, including its legal status in California and other states. Commissioner Choper said fantasy sports provide an opportunity for horse racing to attract players with similar skills and interests.
· The Board waived a rule governing rail construction, so that Santa Anita can install an alternative type of safety rail for its turf course – one that complies with all safety requirements. This only applies to the movable, temporary rail that is sometimes moved away from the permanent inner rail to protect sections of the course.
· The Board adopted a regulatory amendment requiring the voiding of a claim if the horse is placed on the Veterinarian’s List for having bled visibly during the race.
· Chairman Winner presented a Board resolution to George Slender in appreciation for his 43 years as a steward in California. Slender will be retiring after this weekend’s quarter horse programs.
· The Board approved requests from the two simulcast organizations in the north and south to continue the modification of revenue distributions from advance deposit wagering in compliance with state law.