From TOC ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 4, 2026) — Nominations for the 2026 Ballot closed on March 1 with seven candidates for seven open positions. As a result, and consistent with previously established TOC procedures, the TOC Board declared the seven candidates that were nominated and qualified as having been elected without the vote of the full membership. This has the added benefit of saving the organization approximately $18,000 in election expenses. I am pleased to announce the election of five directors to three-year terms and two directors to two-year terms. Gary Barber – Twice named National Owner of the Year by the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association (TOBA) and Outstanding Owner at the Jockey Club of Canada’s Sovereign Awards in 2023 and 2024, Gary has enjoyed incredible success as an owner and breeder in America, Canada, and across the world. He is Chairman and CEO of Spyglass Media Group, LLC, a premier entertainment company and his career in entertainment spans over four decades. Tim Cohen – A lifelong Californian from... ...

From CHRB ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 27, 2026) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted a meeting Thursday, February 26, at the Hilton Hotel in Arcadia. Chairman Greg Ferraro chaired the meeting, joined by Vice Chair Oscar Gonzales and Commissioners Dennis Alfieri, Damascus Castellanos, Brenda Washington Davis, and Peter Stern. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcastlink, accessed through the Media Room tab. The agenda was short, just two main items dealing with 2026 dates allocations in Northern California, but the meeting went long, nearly three hours, with extensive public comment that can be heard via the archive link on the website. The Board denied both requests for 2026 racing dates, one from the Tehama District Fair, which is a new applicant, and the other from the more familiar Humboldt County Fair. The commissioners rejected each request by the same 4-2 vote, but for different reasons. Tehama has not had racing at its fair in more than 40 years, and as... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Feb. 26, 2026) — The Jockey Club today announced the appointment of Charlotte Clement de Bona as its chief strategy & transformation officer, reinforcing its commitment to innovation, performance, and long-term growth. “The sport is evolving, and so must we. Charlotte’s role is an important step as the industry continues to seek growth and modernization opportunities. Charlotte’s track record of delivering meaningful transformations, particularly in dynamic and complex environments, in addition to her unparalleled knowledge of racing, makes her uniquely suited to help guide The Jockey Club through this next chapter. We are delighted to welcome her to the team,” said Chair Everett Dobson. Charlotte brings extensive experience leading large-scale transformations and driving digital innovation. She began her career at McKinsey & Company, where she advised senior leadership teams on strategy and operational performance. She has since held senior roles across high growth startups and private equity backed portfolio companies, where she successfully led operational turnarounds and executed scalable growth strategies. As chief strategy... ...

From Horse Racing Women’s Association ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 25, 2026) — It’s time to meet the speakers for our upcoming event at Santa Anita Park on March 6th. We are excited to welcome Zoe Metz, Aggie Ordonez, Samantha Siegel and Michelle Yu Hanson to share valuable insights and expertise with the HRWA community. In addition to an inspiring panel moderated by HRWA Chairwoman, Stephanie Hronis, we get the pleasure of spending time with handicapping expert, Millie Ball. Millie will provide pro tips for the days’ Handicapping Contest which comes with prizes and bragging rights! We look forward to seeing you for a day of live racing, networking, handicapping, giveaways, and more. To view the full agenda and purchase tickets, click HRWA x Santa Anita Park Tickets, Friday, Mar 6 from 10:30 am to 5 pm | Eventbrite. Pay It Forward Scholarship & Community Initiatives: The HRWA Pay It Forward program is back for 2026. This initiative invites companies and individuals to sponsor tickets for women who would like to attend an HRWA event.... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Feb. 24, 2026) — The Jockey Club announced today that, as part of its traceability initiative, it is distributing 100 microchip scanners this week free of charge to identified aftercare organizations to facilitate the identification of Thoroughbreds. Approximately 400 additional scanners will be distributed in the coming months. “We are providing these scanners as a service to the industry to help aftercare organizations and others identify Thoroughbreds and report whereabouts information, which will greatly benefit our traceability efforts,” said Kristin Werner, deputy general counsel and director of Industry Initiatives, The Jockey Club. “These scanners work with the ID My Thoroughbred app, which was released last week through the App Store and Google Play.” “The ability to identify Thoroughbreds quickly and accurately, especially in sanctuary situations, is vital for aftercare organizations to find the best options for horses in their care,” said Stacie Clark Rogers, operations consultant for the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. “We are grateful for The Jockey Club instituting this initiative.” The additional microchip scanners will be distributed... ...

From TOC When: Saturday, March 21, 9:00 AM Where: Baldwin Terrace – Santa Anita Park Join us for our upcoming Conformation Clinic, part of our Owner Education Seminar series. The first half of the conformation clinic will feature Craig “Boomer” Rounsefell via lifestream from his home base in Australia. Boomer will share his insight and experience as a world-renowned bloodstock agent, including some of his California success stories such as G1 winner Hit The Road and G2 winner Hong Kong Harry, to help owners better understand conformation. He has traveled to nearly every corner of the racing world and comes to Del Mar every summer with his wife McCall, daughter of the late Mike Mitchell. Having developed international clientele under the banner of Boomer Bloodstock, he will outline many of his key observations when evaluating his short list of prospects. The second half of the clinic will feature a visit to the backstretch where seminar attendees will benefit from the opportunity to see horse conformation up close. This is a great opportunity to ask questions, gain expert insight,... ...

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Feb. 23, 2026) — BloodHorse will accept applications through Friday, March 6, for a new paid internship position to work on the leading industry publication’s various platforms this summer. The accepted intern will work with the BloodHorse editorial department on its monthly magazine, website, BloodHorse Daily newsletter, and BH+ video platform. Interns will be given the opportunity to have published, byline work. The paid internship is being funded by BloodHorse, National Turf Writers and Broadcasters (NTWAB), and The Jockey Club. This is one of a record nine paid internships that the NTWAB and The Jockey Club are teaming together to help support in 2026. “We’re looking forward to continuing our internship program with support of the NTWAB and The Jockey Club to provide an opportunity for a journalist interested in covering the racing industry,” said BloodHorse editorial director Frank Angst. “At BloodHorse, we have a number of platforms to tell stories and any number of topics to cover, from racing to industry news, to sales to breeding.” The... ...

From CHRB ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 22, 2026) — The California Horse Racing Board will conduct an in-person meeting on Thursday, February 26, beginning 10 a.m. The meeting will be held at the Hilton Hotel at 123 W. Huntington Drive in Arcadia (91007). CHRB monthly meetings are open to the public. Those who wish to provide unsolicited public comment on the agenda item will be limited to two minutes. Comments must relate specifically to the agenda item. Note that for agenda item Public Session #3, public comment will be limited to thirty minutes.  For those who are unable to attend the meeting, a webcast audio link will be available on the CHRB website via the Media Room link. The agenda and meeting materials are available on the CHRB website: https://www.chrb.ca.gov/meeting_agendas.asp ...

From DMTC Publicity DEL MAR, Calif. (Feb. 18, 2026) — The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club today announced that first post for the 2026 summer meet will primarily be 2:00 PM (PT) on all race days, including Fridays. The change moves Friday racing from its previous 4:00 PM start to 2:00 PM, creating a consistent post time throughout the week and providing fans, horsemen and women, and industry partners with a streamlined schedule. Del Mar’s 2026 summer meet begins on Friday, July 17, and runs through Labor Day Monday, September 7. Closing weekend — September 5–7 — will be the only deviation from the 2:00 PM start time, with races kicking off at 1:30 PM (PT) each day. The 2026 summer meet will continue to feature the world-class racing, vibrant seaside atmosphere and signature events that have defined Del Mar for generations. For more information, visit www.dmtc.com. ...

Published by the Miami Herald We announce with heavy hearts the peaceful passing of horse trainer Randall W. Winick, on Feb 15th 2026 at the age of 76. Randy was the son of leading Florida horse trainer, owner, breeder Arnold N. Winick and his loving mother LaVergne Winick. In the early years, Randy apprenticed under his father, who eventually sent him to California where Randy spent 31 successful years training multiple stakes winners, culminating with Breeders Cup Juvenile winner Brocco in 1993. Brocco went on to be co-favorite in the 1994 Kentucky Derby. In the later years of his professional career, Randy served as a steward for the California Horse Racing Board. As a young man, Randy attended Miami Military Academy high school, graduating 2nd highest in his class and went on to attend the University of Miami, while apprenticing with his dad. Randy was an avid surfer enjoying the water and outdoors as much as he could. He loved all sports and was particularly loyal to his Chicago Cubs,... ...

By DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 16, 2026) – The California racing community is mourning the death of Dena Glatt, wife of prominent trainer Mark Glatt, after a recent illness. Dena Glatt died Feb. 12 at the age of 53. Raised in Washington state, Dena Carey met Mark Glatt in 1996, the first year of racing at Emerald Downs, near Seattle. Mark Glatt recalled over the weekend that he had box seats at Emerald Downs and that Dena was a waitress in that section of the stands. They soon began dating. Dena accompanied Mark Glatt to Northern California that fall when he moved his stable to the Bay Area. The couple moved to Southern California a few years later. Glatt has won training titles at Del Mar and Santa Anita in recent years. The Glatts were married for 25 years. “She was a wonderful person,” Mark Glatt said on Sunday. “She aimed to please everyone in her life. She was one of those people that could strike up a conversation with... ...

ANGELS CAMP, Calif. (Feb. 15, 2026) — Martha Miller, member of the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association since 1990 and a Yosemite icon, passed away Feb. 11, according to her friend, Shirley Kimball. She was 96. Miller’s most productive California-bred was graded winner Harlington’s Rose. She also raced stakes winner Kessem Power, who later stood in California. Miller also served as one of the longest tenured employees of Yosemite National Park. Last year she was the subject of a documentary, “Meet Martha Miller,” a film that followed her journey from Tuolumne Meadows Lodge to her influential tenures at The Ahwahnee Hotel and Badger Pass, as well as a distinguished career in opera production and racing. ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Feb. 13, 2026) — Today The Jockey Club published its 2026 Industry Impact Report, which describes how profits from its commercial, for-profit subsidiaries and partnerships are used to support important industry initiatives. Since 2010, The Jockey Club has re-invested more than $112 million back into the Thoroughbred industry. This year, another $7 million will bring the investment total to nearly $120 million to fund and grow the sport in areas such as aftercare and second careers for Thoroughbreds, promotion of the sport, education, and national and international collaboration.   “The Jockey Club remains steadfast in its mission to improve Thoroughbred breeding and racing,” said James L. Gagliano, president and COO, The Jockey Club. “Each year we continue to expand on that mission by assisting Thoroughbreds throughout their lives and marketing and growing the sport and its fanbase.” In addition to detailing many of the initiatives supported by The Jockey Club, this year’s report includes The Jockey Club’s consolidated statement of income for the year... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Feb. 4, 2026) — The Jockey Club announced today that the 2026 edition of the Fact Book is available, and the pages in breeding section are now updated daily. “Having the breeding pages of the Fact Book update daily provides industry professionals — and anyone interested — with real-time insight into the current state of Thoroughbred breeding,” said Rick Bailey, registrar of The Jockey Club. “Next, we’re focused on upgrading the racing statistics to refresh on a consistent and timely basis.” The online Fact Book is a statistical and informational guide to Thoroughbred breeding, racing, and auction sales in North America and can be found in the Resources section at jockeyclub.com. The Jockey Club is continually seeking ways to provide information in novel formats concerning the Thoroughbred industry. Please email Shannon Luce, vice president, Communications, with your ideas: sluce@jockeyclub.com. The 2026 State Fact Books, which feature detailed breeding, racing, and auction sales information specific to numerous states, Canadian provinces, and Puerto Rico, are also... ...

From CHRB ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 23, 2026) — The California Horse Racing Board will conduct an in-person meeting on Thursday, February 26, beginning 10 a.m. The meeting will be held at the Hilton Hotel at 123 W. Huntington Drive in Arcadia (91007). CHRB monthly meetings are open to the public. Those who wish to provide unsolicited public comment on the agenda item will be limited to two minutes. Comments must relate specifically to the agenda item. For those who are unable to attend the meeting, a webcast audio link will be available on the CHRB website via the Media Room link. The agenda will be published no later than February 16, 2026, and meeting materials will be made available prior to the meeting via a link on the CHRB website: ...

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (June 16, 2026) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted a meeting Wednesday, January 14, at the Cannabis Control Appeals Panel Hearing Room in Sacramento. Chairman Greg Ferraro chaired the meeting, joined by Vice Chair Oscar Gonzales and Commissioners Damascus Castellanos, Brenda Washington Davis, Thomas Hudnut, and Peter Stern. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcastlink, accessed through the Media Room tab. In brief: A combination of Northern California racing interests stood behind a proposal for 2026 race dates at three fairs, but due to what was described as an “11th-hour pivot,” the Board decided to put the matter over to a newly scheduled meeting in February to give the commissioners and CHRB executives and attorneys time to analyze the revised proposal.   CHRB wrote in the Board package before the meeting that several legal and procedural issues with the original proposal needed to be resolved, and their concerns were hammered home by the California Department... ...

From TOC ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 10, 2026) — The board of directors of the Thoroughbred Owners of California unanimously voted to appoint owner John G. Sikura to fill the vacant seat of Nick Alexander, subject to full board ratification at the upcoming Jan. 30 meeting. Sikura is president of Hill ‘n’ Dale Farms in Kentucky and is one of the leading horsemen in the Thoroughbred breeding and racing industry in America. His late father, John Sikura Jr., inducted into the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame in 2013, founded Hill ‘n’ Dale Farms north of Toronto in the late 1960s. He later bought a farm in central Kentucky, and young Sikura took over those operations. Hill n’ Dale relocated to the historic 1,500-acre Xalapa farm in 2022. There they stand stallions such as Curlin   and are both commercial breeders and major consignors at public auction. In addition, John is also an accomplished Thoroughbred owner. He has campaigned many graded stakes winners, including Richi, who captured the 2025 Santa Maria Stakes (G2)... ...

From Governor’s Office SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Jan. 6, 2026) — Thomas Hudnut, of Beverly Hills, has been reappointed to the California Horse Racing Board where he has served since 2021. Hudnut was President and Chief Executive Officer at Harvard-Westlake School from 1987 to 2013. He was Headmaster at The Branston School from 1982 to 1987. Hudnut earned a Master of Arts degree in International Relations and Diplomatic History from Tufts University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Politics from Princeton University. This position requires Senate confirmation and the compensation is $100 per diem. Hudnut is registered without party preference. Damascus Castellanos, of Pico Rivera, has been reappointed to the California Horse Racing Board where he has served since 2020. Castellanos has been a Secretary-Treasurer and Principal Officer at Teamsters Union Local 495 since 2021 where he was a Business Representative from 2005 to 2021. He was a Business Representative at Teamsters Union Local 630 from 2001 to 2012. Castellanos is a Member of the California Thoroughbred Horseman’s Foundation. This position requires... ...

By DRF.com RUBIDOUX, Calif. (Dec. 20, 2025) — Rudy Campas, a fixture among California jockeys for 30 years, died on Wednesday after an illness, his friends said. Campas, who resided in Rubidoux, Calif., near Riverside, was 85. Born in Vernon, Texas, Campas had a varied career, and was well known for his success at the Los Angeles County Fair in Pomona. He won 144 races at the bullring track and was among the 10 all-time leading riders at the venue when it closed in 2013. Campas won 14 stakes at Del Mar, 12 at Hollywood Park, and six at Santa Anita – many on California-breds. His stakes wins at Del Mar included two runnings of the Del Mar Oaks – aboard Cal-breds Pie Queen in 1959 and Greta in 1968 – a division of the 1963 Del Mar Derby on Big Raff, and the Cabrillo and Eddie Read handicaps on Branford Court in 1976. Among his stakes wins at Hollywood Park, Campas won the 1960 A Gleam Stakes on Liberal... ...

From Equibase LEXINGTON, Ky. (Dec. 10, 2025) — Equibase Company, the Thoroughbred industry’s official database for racing information, today announced the launch of a pilot program, Pocket PPs, to provide complimentary digital past performances in a simplified, 4” x 9” format. The Pocket PPs, which are being sponsored by FanDuel, are available for all tracks and can be found via a link within the entries section of equibase.com. In addition to basic entry information, the Pocket PPs display the horse’s past four races with each line including the date, race, race type, points of call, and finish position, along with abbreviated race description comments. “A primary focus for Equibase is to look at ways we can use data to help introduce new horseplayers to the sport while not overwhelming them with complicated past performance information,” said Equibase President Kyle McDoniel. “Our hope is that these simplified PPs will be a good beginning point to handicapping and a stepping stone to other more robust information.” Users can find the Pocket PPs within the... ...

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Nov. 20, 2025) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted a meeting Wednesday, November 19, at the Cannabis Control Appeals Panel Hearing Room in Sacramento. Vice Chair Oscar Gonzales chaired the meeting, joined by Commissioners Dennis Alfieri, Brenda Washington Davis, Thomas Hudnut, and Peter Stern. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcastlink, accessed through the Media Room tab. In brief: In a positive sign for racing in Northern California, the Board allocated dates for a harness meet at the Big Fresno Fair between November 4, 2026, and May 11, 2027. The actual dates the meet will be running will be determined when its operator, Watch and Wager, applies for its license in mid-2026. There was no harness racing in 2025 after the breed’s longtime home, Cal Expo, was permanently closed. In response to a question from Commissioner Hudnut as to whether horsemen who previously raced at Cal Expo will return to California to race in Fresno... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Nov. 10, 2025) — Applications for The Jockey Club’s paid internship program for college students and recent college graduates and its five academic scholarships opened today. The internship program will accommodate up to three interns and is now available in the summer or fall based on the intern’s preference. Interns will gain exposure to all companies and departments within the organization, and they will have the opportunity to spend additional time in areas that they find to be of particular interest. The program will last eight weeks. The internships will take place in The Jockey Club’s office located in Lexington, Ky. For more information and to view the application, interested candidates should visit bit.ly/tjcinternships. Applications are being accepted through January 5, 2026. Selected interns will be notified in February 2026. The Jockey Club scholarships will apply to the 2026-2027 academic year and are as follows:   The Jockey Club Scholarship ($15,000; $7,500 per semester) is for those enrolled full time as an undergraduate or... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Oct. 22, 2025) — The Jockey Club today announced the launch of its traceability survey, which records the status of a Thoroughbred, including the horse’s use and location, so that the industry can better understand the whereabouts of Thoroughbreds that have retired from breeding and racing. Respondents can also provide additional information about the horse to help generate data on the lives of retired Thoroughbreds. “With the traceability survey, we hope everyone who owns, leases, or boards a retired or unraced Thoroughbred will voluntarily report the horse’s status to help us improve traceability,” said Kristin Werner, deputy general counsel and director of Industry Initiatives, The Jockey Club. “Understanding where Thoroughbreds go after their racing and breeding careers will advance the entire industry’s aftercare efforts and support welfare, accountability, and public trust in the sport.” The Jockey Club requests all Thoroughbred owners complete the survey, which should take only a few minutes per horse, by June 30, 2026, but the survey will remain open so owners... ...

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Oct. 16, 2025) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted a meeting Thursday, October 16, at the Department of Consumer Affairs in Sacramento. Vice Chair Oscar Gonzales chaired the meeting, joined by Commissioners Dennis Alfieri, Brenda Washington Davis, and Peter Stern. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link, accessed through the Media Room tab. In brief: The Board approved the license application for the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club to conduct a race meet in Del Mar that will operate from October 30 through November 30. The meet will be highlighted by the Breeders’ Cup World Championships, set for October 31 and November 1. Track President Josh Rubinstein reported there will be a 7-percent increase in purses for this fall meet. The Board approved race-date allocations for quarter horses and thoroughbreds in 2026 that largely mirror the calendar for 2025. The allocations begin December 17, 2025, at Santa Anita, through June 16, followed by dates at Del Mar (July... ...

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Oct. 11, 2025) — Longtime equine tax attorney Richard Craigo passed away on Oct. 6 in Los Angeles, Calif. He was 91. Born April 30, 1934 in Hot Springs, Arkansas, Craigo developed a love of horse racing at an early age. He would often sneak away to watch the races at Oaklawn Park, home of the Arkansas Derby. After earning his B.A. from the University of Arkansas, Richard served three years in the U.S. Air Force. His first civilian summer was spent in Lexington, Ky., working at John D. Hertz’s Stoner Creek Farm as an assistant to the famed farm manager Charlie Kenny. Craigo graduated with honors (Law Review and Order of the Coif) from the University of Southern California Law School and was admitted to the California State Bar in 1967. A certified tax specialist, he devoted his practice almost exclusively to equine matters. He was especially adept at handling IRS challenges under the so-called “Hobby Loss” cases against the IRS, successfully negotiating... ...

From NTRA With passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill, yearling buyers have access to 100% bonus depreciation for the first time since 2022.This important investment incentive can benefit horse and farm owners who may be purchasing horses, tractors or other assets. The NTRA encourages anyone who is preparing to make such large asset purchases to consult with a tax professional in advance.     ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Sept. 25, 2025) — Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation today announced a strategic partnership with EnviroEquine & Pet that involves an innovative online cookie drive aimed at raising funds for vital equine research. The collaboration features EnviroEquine & Pet’s best-selling Healthy Hound and Healthy Pony treat lines, offering pet and horse owners a meaningful way to support equine health research while providing nutritious treats for their animals. Through this partnership, a portion of proceeds from specially marked treat sales will directly support the foundation’s research initiatives. “Partnerships like this one with EnviroEquine & Pet are essential to advancing our mission,” said Jamie Haydon, president, Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation. “The funds raised through this cookie drive will directly support research projects that benefit horses everywhere.” The cookie drive showcases EnviroEquine & Pet’s signature “treats with a purpose” philosophy, combining premium nutrition with charitable giving. Each treat contains a full dose of the company’s proprietary, fully traceable omega-3 oil, which is grown domestically in the USA using sustainable... ...

From the Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Sept. 22, 2025) — The Free Lifetime Starts for Thoroughbred Breeders service, which was launched earlier this year, has been expanded to include all registered racehorses as well as younger horses that are registered but have not reached the track. The service provides a complimentary race record for Thoroughbreds that is updated after each domestic or international start. “We were pleased to provide automatically updated free lifetime starts to breeders for the current foal crop, and I’m glad we were able to expand the service so quickly to include breeders with horses already racing,” said Matt Iuliano, executive vice president and executive director, The Jockey Club. “As we hoped, the response to this initiative has been overwhelmingly positive.” Following direct emails sent to breeders of record announcing this expansion, more than 8,500 horses are now enrolled, representing approximately 2,250 unique breeders. “We expect these numbers will continue to grow as requests to join this service have remained steady,” said Iuliano. “It’s encouraging to see so many... ...

From Los Alamitos Publicity CYPRESS, Calif. (Sept. 21, 2025) — Four stakes for 2-year-olds – including a pair for Golden State Series eligibles – highlight the upcoming Winter Thoroughbred meet at Los Alamitos. The $100,000 Soviet Problem – for 2-year-old fillies – will be offered Sunday, Dec. 7 while the $100,000 King Glorious for 2-year-olds will be run Sunday, Dec. 14. Both are for horses bred or sired in California and made eligible for the Golden State Series. The six-day season is scheduled to begin Friday, Dec. 5 and continue through Sunday, Dec. 14. Racing will be conducted on a Friday-Sunday basis (Dec. 5-7 and 12-14) both weeks. Post time will be 12:30 p.m. The $200,000-guaranteed Starlet, a Grade II for 2-year-old fillies, will be renewed for the 12th time at Los Alamitos Saturday, Dec. 6 one week before the Grade II, $200,000-guaranteed Los Alamitos Futurity, captured in 2024 by eventual Santa Anita Derby and Preakness Stakes winner Journalism. Won a year ago by the Bob Baffert-trained Tenma, the Starlet... ...

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Sept. 20, 2025) — Dennis Alfieri, of Pasadena, has been reappointed to the California Horse Racing Board, where he has served since 2018. Alfieri has been Vice President of West Cost Planning and Management, Inc since 2025. Alfieri is a member of the Board of Directors of the Children’s Burn Foundation of Los Angeles, the Crown City Club, the Rose Bowl Legacy Foundation, the Knights of Malta Western Association, and an Auxiliary Member of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association. This position requires Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Alfieri is a Republican. ...

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Sept. 19, 2025) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted a meeting Thursday, September 18, at Cal Expo. Vice Chair Oscar Gonzales chaired the meeting, joined by Commissioners Dennis Alfieri, Damascus Castellanos, Brenda Washington Davis, Thomas Hudnut, and Peter Stern. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link, accessed through the Media Room tab. In brief: The Board authorized the Keeneland Championship Sale to conduct its second championship horse sale on Wednesday, October 29, in the Del Mar paddock in conjunction with the Breeders’ Cup (October 31, November 1). The sale will include Breeders’ Cup contenders, direct relations to Breeders’ Cup runners, and stallion shares or breeding rights in Breeders’ Cup entrants or hot sires. The Sale provided these details: Horses may be entered in the Keeneland Championship Sale at any time prior to the auction by contacting the Keeneland sales team, who will provide concierge entry services. Given the Keeneland Championship Sale’s proximity to the Breeders’ Cup World Championships,... ...

From TOC ARCADIA, Calif. (Sept. 14, 2025) — The Thoroughbred Owners of California will hold an Owner Education Seminar on Saturday, Oct. 11, at 10:30 a.m. at Santa Anita Park. It will feature a unique opportunity to connect directly with two of the top veterinary experts in the country and continue the conversation on the veterinary protocols and best practices that have driven meaningful progress in California horse racing over the past five years. What to Expect: Insightful presentations from leading vets Dr. Dionne Benson and Dr. Ryan Carpenter Expert commentary from Rosa Sandoval of the Southern California Equine Foundation A guided tour of the equine medical facility at Santa Anita This is a great opportunity to ask questions, gain expert insight, and connect with key figures shaping the future of our sport. Licensed owners are welcome to bring one guest. Earn HISA Credit for this Seminar: Owners will receive one credit hour from HISA for attending this seminar. When registering, please provide: Your full name (as registered with HISA) Your HISA number (the 9-digit number available when you log into your HISA portal) Reservations... ...

From The Jockey Club and TOBA LEXINGTON, Ky. (Sept. 11, 2025) — The Jockey Club and The Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association (TOBA) will host a state breeder organization workshop to share current programs to help identify best practices and areas of growth. The workshop will be held at Churchill Downs on Wednesday, November 12. “We are honored to cohost this workshop to help grow our sport by encouraging collaboration among the state breeding programs and sharing best practices from around the country,” said James L. Gagliano, president and COO of The Jockey Club. “I believe it is vital for us to unify our industry at every level to ensure it thrives.” The workshop will begin at 9 a.m. ET in the Oaks Room at Churchill Downs and will end at the first post. An overview of national trends will be followed by a presentation from Douglas Reed, former University of Arizona Race Track Industry Program director and longtime racing executive, now principal of Racing, Gaming & Entertainment LLC, on his... ...

From DMTC Publicity DEL MAR, Calif. (Sept. 10, 2025) — Fred Maas, a multi-talented executive who has served in a dozen different roles in industry, politics, sports and development – while along the way living and loving a role as a serious horse racing fan – has been named as the latest member of the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club’s Board of Directors.  Maas, 68, is currently the Los Angeles Chargers Chief of Staff and Counselor, where he oversees all business and legal functions. His rich working background goes from coast to coast, starting with him growing up in Rochester, NY and graduating cum laude from the Syracuse University College of Law. He subsequently served in a variety of capacities in national, state and local politics, including stints with Senators Bob Dole and John McCain, Jack Kemp and Governor Mitch Daniels among others.  He headed up MRV Systems LLC, a manufacturer of marine robotic vehicles for the oceanographic and defense industries. He also served as chairman and CEO of the San... ...

By DRF.com DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 26, 2025) — Steve Andersen, a longtime California correspondent for Daily Racing Form, has been named the recipient of the Walter Haight Award for “career excellence in turf writing” by the National Thoroughbred Writers and Broadcasters, the organization announced Tuesday. Andersen has been employed by DRF for 31 years, covering the racing industry in California from head to heel. His coverage has included race previews and recaps, breeding and business news, sales coverage, and features. An ardent racing fan, Andersen regularly vacations in England to attend prestigious steeplechase and flat meets. He also covers Quarter Horse racing in Southern California and New Mexico. Andersen’s selection was announced along with other annual award recipients from the NTWAB.  Jockey Perry Ouzts, the 71-year-old iron man, was selected for the Mr. Fitz Award for “typifying the spirit of racing.” Ouzts passed Russell Baze this summer for the most rides in North American history. Starting in 1973, Ouzts has ridden in five decades, and he holds the distinction of the... ...

From CHRB DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 22, 2025) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted a meeting Thursday, August 21, in Del Mar. Chairman Gregory Ferraro chaired the meeting, joined by Vice Chair Oscar Gonzales and Commissioners Dennis Alfieri, Damascus Castellanos, Brenda Washington Davis, and Peter Stern. The audio of this entire Board meeting will be available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcastlink, accessed through the Media Room tab. At this moment, technical difficulties are delaying this posting. In brief: The Board approved the license for the Los Alamitos Racing Association to conduct a thoroughbred meet running from September 12 through September 21. However, Chairman Ferraro cautioned that Los Alamitos has not done a good enough job to protect quarter horses that run there. He said the safety record with thoroughbreds has been much improved from last year, but not with quarter horses. He asked Dr. Jeff Blea,  the CHRB equine medical director, to elaborate on that point. Dr. Blea agreed with Chairman Ferraro that there remains a... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 18, 2025) — The Jockey Club today announced the election of 10 new members: Craig Bernick, Peter M. Brant, Boyd T. Browning Jr., Case Clay, Dennis Drazin, Marette Farrell, Jonathan Green, Andrew Moore, Dean Reeves, and Bill Strauss. Moore and Strauss are California based. Moore, a native of Ireland and a resident of Los Angeles, is the General Manager of Racing for the FanDuel Group, America’s leading sportsbook, casino, and ADW platform with more than 4 million monthly players. Moore is responsible for executing FanDuel’s strategy to grow racing’s reach through compelling content, fan engagement, and industry collaboration. FanDuel’s racing portfolio includes FanDuel TV, the only network with year-round, daily live racing coverage, and FanDuel Racing, the first ADW integrated into a sportsbook – bringing the sport to millions without the barrier of asking them to open a separate account. Since partnering with the Kentucky Derby in 2023, FanDuel has introduced more than 500,000 new bettors to horse racing via its promotion of... ...

From Los Alamitos Publicity CYPRESS, Calif. (Aug. 15, 2025) — James Dreyer, a Champion of Champions winning jockey and one of the best Quarter Horse riders during Los Alamitos’ golden era of jockeys in the 1960s and ‘70s, passed away on Monday, August 11 after an illness. He was 82. Born February 26, 1943, Dreyer was from Scranton, Pennsylvania. He enjoyed an outstanding 18-year riding career at Los Alamitos, winning 535 Quarter Horse races and 46 stakes races at Orange County oval. Many of those victories came aboard Ed Allred and Kenneth Wright’s legendary AQHA Hall of Famer and World Champion Charger Bar, who Dreyer (photo with Charger Bar) piloted to victory in the second running of the Champion of Champions in 1973. Dreyer also rode the great Go Josie Go, who was a dominant Quarter Horse in the local ranks in both 1965 and 1966. After the conclusion of his riding career, Dreyer was a track official and worked in the Los Alamitos racing office for 20 years. He then served... ...

By DRF.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Aug. 14, 2025) — Frank Garcia, a longtime fixture at Santa Anita as a stable gate attendant, died recently after an extended illness. Garcia was 58. Anyone who drove past the horsemen’s entrance to the east side of the stable area, or to a nearby valet parking lot frequented by horse owners and trainers, likely encountered Garcia in recent decades. Based at that highly-traveled location of the racetrack property, Garcia warmly greeted people from all aspects of racing, from backstretch and track employees, front office executives as well as owners, trainers and jockeys. In an Instagram post published earlier this week, Teamsters Local 495 paid tribute to Garcia. “Frank dedicated much of his life to the track and the people who loved it,” the statement read in part. “Known for his warm smile and his familiar greeting – How are you today?” – Frank made everyone feel welcome.” Garcia was an Air Force veteran. Funeral services have not been finalized. ...

From TOC ARCADIA, Calif. (Aug. 4, 2025) – The board of directors of the Thoroughbred Owners of California (TOC) unanimously voted to appoint owner Darren Filkins, CEO of Harris Farms, Inc. to fill a vacancy on the board created by the recent passing of John Harris. Filkins was born and raised in Bakersfield, CA. His family owned a small farm, and from an early age he enjoyed being involved with livestock and participating in a local 4H and FFA (Future Farmers of America) groups. His father, a longtime veterinarian in Bakersfield, served most of the equine population there, including Thoroughbreds. Darren studied Agribusiness at California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo, where he also played football. “I’d previously worked with Darren through some difficult issues and was impressed by his intelligence, forthrightness and integrity – two characteristics welcomed on any industry board,” said TOC Board member Ty Green, chairman of the Northern California Racing Affairs subcommittee. “Harris Farms has been a big part of the history of California racing over... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 4, 2025) — TJC Media Ventures announced today the appointment of Dan Tordjman as president. Tordjman had served as vice president since 2024, overseeing record growth in viewership and engagement with America’s Best Racing (ABR) content. Since 2014, Tordjman has played an integral role at ABR, a multimedia fan-development initiative created by The Jockey Club in 2012. An accomplished media and marketing professional with more than 20 years of experience, Tordjman has overseen digital strategy, content development, and industry partnerships. His leadership has been key in expanding ABR’s digital footprint and amplifying the sport’s reach through innovative content across social and digital platforms.   Prior to his role as vice president, Tordjman served as manager of Partnerships & Sponsorships, building and nurturing strategic relationships with racetracks, ADWs, and other industry stakeholders. Tordjman’s efforts include launching ABR’s digital livestreams, garnering millions of views during major events such as the Triple Crown and Breeders’ Cup. Tordjman’s team also created and developed the multiple award-winning influencer... ...

From TOBA LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 4, 2025) — Richard Barton Enterprises has been named California breeder of the year by TOBA. In advance of the 40th anniversary of the TOBA National Awards, the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association announced the State Breeders of the Year and three equine award winners Monday. The TOBA National Awards Luncheon honoring the winning breeders will be held Friday, Sept. 5 at Godolphin, with TOBA’s National Awards Dinner the next evening at Fasig-Tipton. “It is a great honor and privilege for TOBA to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of the state breeders, as well as these three amazing horses,” said TOBA president Dan Metzger. “They each achieved remarkable success in 2024 and we look forward to celebrating with them in what promises to be a memorable evening at Fasig-Tipton.” TOBA’s 2025 State and Canadian Breeders of the Year are as follows: Arizona Breeder of the Year – Fleming Thoroughbred Farm LLC (Marvin and Gerald Fleming) Arkansas Breeder of the Year – McDowell Farms (Bill McDowell) California... ...

From Los Alamitos Publicity CYPRESS, Calif. (Aug. 2, 2025) –Two stakes worth $200,000 will be run during the upcoming September Thoroughbred meet at Los Alamitos. The six-day meet is scheduled to begin Friday, Sept. 12 and continue through Sunday, Sept. 21. Racing will be conducted Friday-Sunday both weeks (Sept. 12-14 and Sept. 19-21). Post time will be 1 p.m. The first stakes race – the $75,000 E.B. Johnston – will be run Saturday, Sept. 13. A one-mile race, the Johnston is restricted to 3-year-olds & up bred or sired in California. The other stakes is the $125,000 Dark Mirage Saturday, Sept. 20. The race is also at one mile and is for fillies and mares 3-year-olds & up. ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (July 30, 2025) — The board of stewards of The Jockey Club announced today the election of Everett R. Dobson as chair. Dobson succeeds Stuart S. Janney III, who had served as chair of The Jockey Club since August 8, 2015. Janney will continue to serve on the board of stewards. Dobson has been a member of The Jockey Club since 2014. He served as a steward from August 2017 through August 2021 and was elected again in 2024. Dobson is a longtime owner and breeder of Thoroughbreds. He is the owner of Candy Meadows Farm and races under Cheyenne Stables. He serves on the executive committee of the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association and is immediate past chairman of the American Graded Stakes Committee. Dobson also serves as a member of the Breeders’ Cup in addition to being a trustee of the Keeneland Association.   A native and resident of Oklahoma, Dobson is the executive chairman of Dobson Fiber, a telecommunications company based... ...

From NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 30, 2025) — If you are planning to sell at the Keeneland and/or Fasig-TIpton breeding stock sales this fall, now is the time to enroll in the NTRA’s ¼% Check-off Program, a voluntary fundraising program that helps support the NTRA’s federal legislative advocacy efforts. Click here to access the Check-off Program ENROLLMENT FORM Click here to access a Check-off Program INFORMATIONAL FLYER. The NTRA has been active in Washington for more than 20 years, but it is only recently that we opened an office there. This presence gives our sport more visibility with the nation’s lawmakers than ever before. How can you support this effort? Our sale company partners* provide the platform for sale participants to voluntarily contribute $2.50 for every $1,000 in a horse’s sale price to the Check-off Program. By enrolling, the sale company will withhold the contribution total from your sale proceeds. Thank you for your consideration! Joe Bacigalupo Consignors: please share this email with your sale clients Sellers: please complete the... ...

  When: Saturday, August 16, 8:30 AM Where: Veranda Café – Del Mar The Thoroughbred Owners of California (TOC) invites all members to the Annual Meeting. The general business meeting will provide directors an opportunity to update the membership on important issues and will include a question-and-answer session. Award presentations will be made to the recipients of the Chairman’s Award and Annual Owner Awards. A complimentary buffet breakfast will also be served. Reservations are required. Please note: A current CHRB Owner’s License is required to make a reservation. Register Here   When: Saturday, August 16, 1:00 PM Where: Celebrity Grill Patio – Del Mar TOC and Del Mar Thoroughbred Club invite licensed owners to join us for a relaxed and social 1-hour gathering this summer! Enjoy light bites, drinks, and great conversation with fellow owners—all set against beautiful ocean and paddock views. Space is limited, and reservations are required. Please note: A current CHRB Owner’s License is required to make a reservation. Register Here   When: Sunday, August 17, 9:00 AM Where: Del Mar Join us... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (July 14, 2025) — TJC Innovations today announced a new Portfolio App to elevate its My Portfolio service available through equineline.com. The Portfolio App provides quick and easy access for My Portfolio customers to review their portfolio horses on a smartphone or tablet and is free with a My Portfolio subscription. My Portfolio is a unique management tool for Thoroughbreds and Quarter Horses that acts as a hub for data such as catalog-style pedigrees, mare produce records, and race and sale entries and results. My Portfolio can be used for mares, horses in training, and stallions. Portfolios are continuously updated with the latest information about the portfolio horses and their offspring, such as past performance race records for horses in training. The service also provides a free updated catalog-style pedigree every 30 days for all horses in the portfolio with a purchased pedigree. “Tracking our stallions’ progeny is crucial, and this app will allow me to do this from anywhere,” said Ryan Norton, stallion director, Gainesway Farm. “As a... ...

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (June 21, 2025) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted a meeting Thursday, June 19, at Cal Expo. Chairman Gregory Ferraro chaired the meeting, joined by Vice Chair Oscar Gonzales and Commissioners Dennis Alfieri, Damascus Castellanos, Brenda Washington Davis, Thomas Hudnut, and Peter Stern. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link, accessed through the Media Room tab. In brief: The Board voted against two separate applications for race meets in Ferndale and Fresno that would have provided for a total of 13 racing programs in Northern California during the months of September and October – outside of their normal fair periods. This was the third time in as many months that Ferndale supporters approached the Board for a license and were denied each time. The Fresno application was new, but it met the same result. Both applications failed by the same 4-3 vote with Chairman Ferraro and Commissioners Alfieri, Castellanos, and Hudnut voting against. Vice Chair Gonzales and Commissioners... ...

From TOC ARCADIA Calif. (June 13, 2025) – Great Friends Stable has been selected by Thoroughbred Owners of California (TOC) as the recipient of this year’s Horseracing Partnership Award. The annual award recognizes and celebrates co-ownerships and partnership entities within the horse racing community and is open to partnerships of all sizes from two and up.   Nominated by Aaron Wilson, one of the partners, Great Friends Stable was selected by TOC’s Owner Relations Committee. Great Friends campaigns four-year-old stakes sensation Raging Torrent in partnership with Yulong Racing. The Southern California-based partnership is headed by Craig Dado, founder and owner of Sports Injury Central (SIC), a real-time expert sports injury analysis website.   Approximately 15 members of the Great Friends Racing group recently traveled to New York to watch Raging Torrent win the June 7 Metropolitan Handicap (G1), earning a paid, automatic berth into the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile this fall at Del Mar. Trained by Doug O’Neill, his previous wins include the Godolphin Mile (G2) at Meydan Racecourse and... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 9, 2025) — The Jockey Club announced today the recipients of its five academic scholarships, which will be awarded for the 2025-2026 academic year. Lauren Maas was selected to receive The Jockey Club Scholarship ($7,500 per semester), which is awarded to a student on an academic path toward employment in the equine industry. Lauren has a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science with an equine emphasis from UC-Davis and has also earned her Master of Science in Animal Biology from UC-Davis with the thesis, “Arrhythmogenesis and Sudden Cardiac Death in Thoroughbred Racehorses.” She is attending veterinary school at the Royal Veterinary College in London, England, and plans to return to the United States upon graduation to find employment as a racetrack veterinarian. The Jockey Club Advancement of Women in Racing Scholarship ($10,000 per semester) is being awarded to Sophia Vega. Sophia plans to graduate from the University of Kentucky in the spring of 2026 with a degree in Animal Science / Pre-Vet with... ...

From NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 28, 2025) — The NTRA’s Legislative annual report is now available. Click here to view. Features of the Legislative annual report include: A federal legislative summary of issues that affect horse racing and breeding  A list of contributors to the NTRA’s Legislative Action Campaign through the ¼% Check-off Program and other related NTRA fundraising programs  Calendars of NTRA sales company partners Biographies of NTRA Legislative team members Member discount information from NTRA partners (John Deere, Big Ass Fans, Sherwin-Williams, ODP Business Solutions, Farmers Insurance, and Pets Best) Thank you to all who supported the NTRA’s federal legislative effort in Washington, DC, by giving to the ¼% Check-off Program, the National Horseplayers Championship (NHC) Tour or through a direct contribution. Please share this report with others who have an interest in Thoroughbred racing and breeding and who share your enthusiasm for the sport of horse racing. With Appreciation, Joe Bacigalupo Sr. Vice President of External Affairs ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 27, 2025) — TJC Innovations (TJCI) today announced several enhancements to TLore, a racehorse management service that offers web-based and app versions for trainers and owners. TLore now automatically provides the microchip number and the name of the last recorded manager of the digital certificate of foal registration. The name of the certificate manager on record with The Jockey Club will enable the trainer to quickly know the location of the horse’s digital certificate in the event the certificate needs to be reassigned, as horses move between racetracks and/or sales companies during their careers. TLore also now provides searchable condition books. Without leaving the TLore platform, trainers can quickly search for races of interest in a national database maintained by TJCI’s InCompass Solutions Inc., the leader in software systems used by every racing office in the United States and Canada. Races can be searched by state, track, and date range and filtered by traditional race conditions such as age, sex, race type, distance,... ...

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (May 16, 2025) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted a meeting Thursday, May 15, at Cal Expo. Chairman Gregory Ferraro chaired the meeting, joined by Vice Chair Oscar Gonzales and Commissioners Dennis Alfieri, Damascus Castellanos, Brenda Washington Davis, Thomas Hudnut, and Peter Stern. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcastlink, accessed through the Media Room tab. In brief: The Humboldt County Fair made another appeal to have dates allocated to its racing program in Ferndale in 2025 – this after the Board failed in a 3-2 vote to allocate those dates at the April meeting. Humboldt gained a vote from newly appointed commissioner Peter Stern, joined by Vice Chair Gonzales and Commissioner Davis, but with only three affirmative votes, one short of the required majority, the motion failed. Commissioner Castellanos, who did not attend the April meeting, added his negative vote to those of Chairman Ferraro and Commissioners Alfieri and Hudnut, making the vote 4-3... ...

From NTRA WASHINGTON, DC. (May 14, 2025) – The National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) praises the House Ways and Means Committee for passing a tax bill through their committee that includes 100% bonus depreciation. This is one of the first hurdles the bill needed to cross to become law. According to the bill, bonus depreciation will be retroactive to January 20, 2025, and continue unchanged (no phasedown of rate) for five years. “100% bonus depreciation is essential for our sport,” said NTRA President and CEO Tom Rooney. “I praise the House Ways and Means committee for swiftly passing this bill. While it’s not permanent bonus depreciation, restoring 100% bonus depreciation for the next five years is a huge step in the right direction. It will give the Thoroughbred industry the increased cashflow and flexibility it needs to thrive. I would also like to applaud the work of our partners in this effort, the Economic Investment Alliance (EIA), for all that they have done in making sure 100% bonus depreciation was included... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 13, 2025) — The Jockey Club Information Systems in association with the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities have published the 2025 International Cataloguing Standards Book, also known as The Blue Book. The book is produced annually and provides a listing of stakes races from each country that will be accorded Group/Graded or Listed status in sales catalogs using standards approved by the Society of International Thoroughbred Auctioneers. The 2025 version of The Blue Book and a link to books from 1998 through 2024 can be found here: ifhaonline.org/default.asp?section=Resources&area=8. Publication of The Blue Book is coordinated by the International Grading and Race Planning Committee with input from racing authorities worldwide. The first book was published in 1983. ...

From NTRA WASHINGTON, DC. (May 12, 2025) – The National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) continues to work actively on Capitol Hill to help to expand investments in the sport of Thoroughbred racing. The NTRA is an active supporter of the Regulation Advancement for Capital Enhancement (RACE) Act of 2025, which makes it easier for everyone to experience the thrill of owning a horse. The Act will automatically approve offering statements filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) – simplifying the registration process. This change will allow for more Americans to invest in the industry through fractional ownership of Thoroughbred racehorses. “Thanks to companies like MyRacehorse, thousands of people across the country get to experience the excitement of owning a winning horse,” said NTRA President and CEO Tom Rooney. “Thoroughbred racing is America’s best and oldest sport, and we need to encourage more people to get involved. We can’t penalize individuals and companies interested in fractional participation due to excessive federal regulations. The RACE Act is one way we can ensure... ...

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Apr. 30, 2025) — Peter Stern, of San Francisco, has been appointed to the California Horse Racing Board by Gov. Gavin Newsom. Stern has been Chief Revenue Officer at Skedulo and an Advisor at Berkeley SkyDeck since 2025. He held several roles at Authorium from 2024 to 2025, including Advisor and Executive Vice President. He was the Co-Founder of VoiceBrain from 2021 to 2023. He was a Commissioner at California State Lottery Commission from 2019 to 2022. He held several positions at Inxeption from 2017 to 2021, including Executive Vice President of Business Operations and Senior Vice President of Corporate Development. Stern was the Airport Commissioner at the San Francisco International Airport from 2010 to 2019. He was Chief Revenue Officer at Skedulo from 2015 to 2017. Stern was the Chief Revenue Officer at Autopilot from 2013 to 2015. Stern was the Vice President of Sales at Kenandy, Inc. from 2011 to 2013. He held numerous positions at Salesforce from 2007 to 2011, including Vice President of... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Apr. 29, 2025) — Applications for The Jockey Club Thoroughbred Incentive Program’s (T.I.P.) two annual awards, the Thoroughbred of the Year Award and the Young Rider of the Year Award, are now available online at tjctip.com. Applications are due June 30, 2025. The T.I.P. Thoroughbred of the Year Award recognizes a Thoroughbred that has excelled in a non-competitive career, such as equine-assisted services or police work. The award includes a $5,000 grant to the non-profit organization associated with the horse or, if no organization is associated with the horse, to a horse-related charity chosen by The Jockey Club. To apply for the T.I.P. Thoroughbred of the Year Award, owners can go to bit.ly/3REPP4f.    The T.I.P. Young Rider of the Year Award recognizes young riders, 18 or under, as of January 1, 2025, who own or lease a Thoroughbred for use in 4-H, Pony Club, or other activities. The winner(s) will be determined through an essay contest with a total award of $5,000. Award funds can be applied... ...

By Jay Privman Gregson Foundation ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 29, 2025) – There are many adjectives that could describe Zavina Castaneda, but perhaps the most appropriate is “determined.” At age 12, she was in a horrific car crash and nearly lost her life, yet her determination to get well brought her back to full health. Later, as a teenager, she was determined to advocate for a younger nephew with autism; he finally was properly diagnosed, and has subsequently received appropriate education. And now, in her early 20s, she is earning a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of California at Riverside, and this fall intends to start law school, en route to becoming the first in her family to earn both a bachelor’s degree and a law degree. Her journey has been aided by the Gregson Foundation, which provides scholarships for children of backstretch workers. Castaneda was determined to get the organization’s support, and said the financial and emotional backing have been invaluable. She will graduate free of student-loan... ...

From Los Alamitos Publicity CYPRESS, Calif. (Apr. 23, 2025) — Three stakes, including the $100,000 Bertrando for 3-year-olds & up bred or sired in California, highlight the Los Angeles County Fair meet at Los Alamitos. The nine-day season will begin Friday, June 20 and continue through Sunday, July 6. Racing will be conducted Friday-Sunday (June 20-22, June 27-29 and July 4-6). Post time will be 1 p.m. The one-mile Bertrando will be run Saturday, June 21. The richest event on the calendar is the Grade II, $200,000 Great Lady M. Stakes for fillies & mares at 6 ½ furlongs. Won by Sharp Azteca in track record time in 2024, the Great Lady M. will be offered Saturday, July 5. The $100,000 Los Alamitos Derby, which was won a year ago by the Bob Baffert-trained Wynstock, will be contested Saturday, June 28. Baffert has won the Derby eight consecutive years and nine times since the race – which was formerly called the Swaps Stakes at Hollywood Park – has been run... ...

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 19, 2025) — Professor Gordon Jones died April 18, only four days after his 95th birthday. Jones was a pioneer of speed and pace handicapping. His best-selling book, “Gordon Jones to Win,” inspired his popular prerace handicapping seminars attended by legions of race goers. He brought his numbers to the track at a time when people would laugh at him, and he would hide his spiral notebook. Speed numbers are now a common barometer. He graduated from Whittier College, where his father had been president for several years. He went on to get his master’s degree from the University of Oregon. Jones taught journalism at the University of Southern California and Arizona State University. He was awarded the Top Banana Award several times by his students at USC, which was awarded to their favorite professor. Many of his students went on to say that he was the reason they went on to successful careers as journalists. Renown sportscaster Al Michaels has said numerous times that Jones was his favorite professor. He... ...

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Apr. 19, 2025) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted a meeting Thursday, April 17, at Cal Expo. Chairman Gregory Ferraro chaired the meeting, joined by Vice Chair Oscar Gonzales and Commissioners Dennis Alfieri, Brenda Washington Davis, and Thomas Hudnut. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcastlink, accessed through the Media Room tab. In brief: Two requests for date allocations in Northern California failed to pass, meaning that as things stand, there will not be any thoroughbred or fair racing in the north this year. There will be harness racing at Cal Expo. A request for thoroughbred dates at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton was rejected outright by a 4-1 vote with Vice Chair Gonzales casting the only vote in support. (Commissioner Damascus Castellanos did not attend, and the Board has six appointed members, one short of the normal seven.) Chairman Ferraro stated the prevailing opinion of the Board majority when he declared at the... ...

Fédération Equestre Internationale Press Release ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 15, 2025) — Santa Anita Park has been confirmed as the venue of the equestrian events of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. “Santa Anita Park will be a spectacular venue for the LA28 Olympic equestrian events,” Fédération Equestre Internationale president Ingmar De Vos said. “The FEI has very fond memories of Santa Anita, which had hosted the equestrian events at the 1984 Olympic Games. The venue is set to offer a breathtaking stage for all the Olympic equestrian competitions, and the proximity to LA city will undoubtedly attract many spectators to Santa Anita. We look forward to continuing our cooperation with LA28 to deliver spectacular equestrian events at the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.” “I would like to thank the FEI on behalf of the IOC for the active engagement in all the discussions regarding the venue,” International Olympic Committee sports director Kit McConnell said. “We have created a strong partnership with the Organizing Committee and the city of Los Angeles, which enjoys the... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Apr. 15, 2025) — The PDF of the 2025 edition of The American Racing Manual, which contains historical data on Thoroughbred racing through 2024, is now available through The Jockey Club Fact Book. The Fact Book is a statistical and informational guide to Thoroughbred breeding, racing, and auction sales in North America. ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Apr. 4, 2025) — The Jockey Club announced today that the 2025 edition of the Fact Book is available in the Resources section at jockeyclub.com. The online Fact Book is a statistical and informational guide to Thoroughbred breeding, racing, and auction sales in North America, which is updated quarterly. Later this year, many of the statistics in the fact book will begin to be updated on a weekly basis, and new statistics will be added. The Jockey Club is continually seeking ways to provide information in novel formats concerning the Thoroughbred industry. Please email Shannon Luce, vice president, Communications, with your ideas: sluce@jockeyclub.com. The 2025 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. The 2025 edition of The American Racing Manualwill be available as part of the Fact Book in the coming weeks.   ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Apr. 2, 2025) — The board of directors of Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation announced that it has authorized expenditure of $2,693,312 to fund 16 new projects and 10 continuing projects at 17 universities as well as two career development awards. The 2025 slate of research brings Grayson’s totals since 1940 to more than $44.4 million to underwrite more than 450 projects at 48 universities. “I’m very proud of Grayson’s commitment to furthering the research and development of projects that affect all horses, no matter their breed or discipline,” said Jamie Haydon, president of Grayson. “We are equally ecstatic that we could offer our two career development awards to this year’s recipients, continuing to cultivate a future for young researchers.” Among the grants are three associated with UC Davis: Organoid Model For Equine Placentitis Research Pouya Dini, University of California-Davis This project’s aim is to develop an in vitro model of equine placentitis to advance the study of this condition, ultimately improving diagnostics, treatments, and... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Mar. 19, 2025) — The Jockey Club today announced the new Off-Track Thoroughbred Profile, the first equineline.com report centered on Thoroughbreds in their second careers. The report, 9OT, provides information customized to off-track Thoroughbred owners and those shopping for a Thoroughbred. Based on feedback received from off-track Thoroughbred owners, the report contains a bespoke summary of the horse’s race record, including comments, owners, and trainers for each race; the last 10 workouts; a list of the horse’s siblings; auction history; and, if applicable, the subject mare’s produce record. To encourage the promotion of Thoroughbreds in their second career, this report is shareable through SMS messaging and email and across multiple platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and X. Equineline product 9OT is available for purchase for any registered Thoroughbred at equineline.com. The report will be available for free to all off-track Thoroughbreds with a T.I.P. number as a benefit to those participating in The Jockey Club Thoroughbred Incentive Program (T.I.P.). OTTB Profiles for existing T.I.P. numbers can be accessed... ...

From Gregson Foundation ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 17, 2025) — Tom Reynolds, a horse owner and long-time racing fan who had a successful career in sales and marketing in the food service industry, has been named to the board of directors of the Gregson Foundation, the organization’s president, Jenine Sahadi, announced Monday. The Gregson Foundation, named for the late Kentucky Derby-winning trainer Eddie Gregson, provides scholarships for the children of backstretch workers in California. The 501(c)(3) charity has been in existence for nearly 25 years. “I greatly admire what the Gregson Foundation accomplishes for the backstretch families,” Reynolds said. “I strongly believe that as a society, our biggest mission is to educate our children.” “Tom has been a passionate and long-time supporter of the Gregson Foundation, and we are thrilled to have him join our board,” Sahadi said. Reynolds retired after working for nearly 35 years as a sales and marketing executive for the Quaker Oats Company, Gatorade, and PepsiCo. Reynolds started the Gatorade business in Europe, ran the Gatorade business... ...

From CHRB The California Horse Racing Board meeting that was scheduled for Thursday, March 20, at Cal Expo has been canceled. The few items that were on that agenda will be considered at a future meeting. The next regular meeting of the Board is scheduled for April 17 at Cal Expo. ...

From Gregson Foundation By Jay Privman ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 6, 2025) — Juan Delgado is in his first year at UCLA, the next step on a journey that has seen him excel at Pasadena City College, and in a research program at Stanford, impressing his mentors as he moves towards his goal of obtaining a Masters of Public Health in Epidemiology. Delgado said his desire is to “build a career focused on improving health outcomes for immigrant and marginalized communities.” He has been laser-focused on that target, with stellar grades and a work ethic that helped him get into UCLA, as well as receive scholarship funds from the Gregson Foundation. At Pasadena City College, Delgado was “one of the most promising students I have had the pleasure of teaching,” Jessica Rusk, an adjunct professor of psychology, wrote in support of Delgado’s scholarship application. “In my class, I assign a research paper which involves reading, conducting academic research, summarizing three peer-reviewed journal articles, and arguing one’s opinion on a premise,” Rusk... ...

Hoof Pick Racing Partners Release W. Morgan Fussell Jr., managing partner of Hoof Pick Racing Partners LLC, is pleased to announce the retirement of our six-year-old homebred mare, Smiling Molly (Smiling Tiger). Molly enjoyed a successful racing career, earning over $200,000 in purses and an additional $40,000 in California Breeders and Owners awards. Racing over multiple seasons, she was a five-time winner at four different California tracks and placed in 56% of her 25 career starts at eight different tracks, demonstrating versatility on turf, all-weather, and dirt surfaces. Molly retired sound.   “Molly was our second foal from the Exchange Rate mare, Jilted Lady, and we are immensely proud of her accomplishments,” said Fussell. “We extend our sincere gratitude to Per Antonsen, Ryan Hanson, and Wayne Baker, whose expertise and dedication were instrumental in Molly’s successful career.”   Smiling Molly has settled in at Kismet Farms, located in Midway, KY, and will be bred to Two-Year-Old Champion, Corniche (Quality Road). We wish her all the best in her new endeavor... ...

From TOC ARCADIA, Calif. (Mar. 4, 2025) — Nomination for the 2025 Ballot closed on March 1 with five candidates for five open positions. As a result, and consistent with previously established TOC procedures (and Section 7522 of the California Nonprofit Benefit Corporation Law), the TOC Board declared the five candidates that were nominated and qualified as having been elected without the vote of the full membership. This has the added benefit of saving the organization approximately $18,000 in election expenses. I am pleased to announce the election of five directors to three-year terms: Nick Alexander – After joining the TOC Board in 2013, Nick served as Chairman from 2017-2021 and has raced Thoroughbreds in California for over 40 years. He has enjoyed great success as an owner and breeder with California homebreds. Joe Ciaglia – CEO of the world’s most recognized skatepark design and build form, Joe claimed his first horse in 1999 and has gone on to enjoy success at the highest level. John Harris – Owner of Harris Farms and... ...

From DMTC Publicity DEL MAR, Calif. (Feb. 27, 2025) — For its 86th summer season by the blue Pacific, Del Mar is planning a $7,825,000 stakes program that provides 38 opportunities for a piece of its distinctive black type headed by the iconic track’s piece de resistance – the 35th edition of the $1,000,000 Pacific Classic, a Grade I headliner that often lures top horses from across the nation for its mile and one quarter testing.  Exactly half – 19 – of the 38 races, which include five overnight stakes, will be contested on the turf and eight of the stakes will be for California-breds, offering a total of $1-million in purses. Additionally, the five overnight stakes each will carry a purse of $100,000. The Pacific Classic will be run on Saturday, August 30 as the centerpiece for a sparkling card offering five graded stakes and more than $2-million in purses, including a pair of Grade II features – the $300,000 Del Mar Handicap and the $300,000 Del Mar Mile... ...

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Feb. 21, 2025) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted a meeting Thursday, February 20, at Cal Expo. Chairman Gregory Ferraro chaired the meeting, joined by Vice Chair Oscar Gonzales and Commissioners Dennis Alfieri, Damascus Castellanos, and Brenda Washington Davis. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcastlink, accessed through the Media Room tab. In brief: The Board reaffirmed California horse racing’s commitment to working with the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act/Authority (HISA) by redirecting revenue from Advance Deposit Wagering to allow racetracks to pay their fair shares of 2025 HISA costs. Santa Anita will pay the most, $471,958, because it operates seven months of the year and has the most thoroughbred starts. Del Mar’s assessment is $277,437 for its 2½ months of racing. Altogether the tracks will pay $876,872 to HISA. California’s obligation to HISA actually is significantly higher, nearly $7 million, but HISA credits California for picking up the substantial costs of drug testing, sample... ...

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 12, 2025)— Two students from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona), studying in the Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences Equine Studies program, have been selected to join Santa Anita as interns through an ongoing partnership between the famed racetrack and the world-renowned university. Sabrina Nakasone, a senior and Leslie Batista, a junior, were selected for this year’s class. Both are majoring in Animal Science Pre-Veterinary with a minor in Equine Studies at Cal Poly Pomona. The internship program, which began last year, is designed to provide students with authentic work experience in the Thoroughbred racing industry with a focus on veterinary best practices and racetrack operations. Each student will complete a minimum of 60 hours between now and the internships end on May 10. “We are excited to continue our partnership with Cal Poly Pomona, providing driven Equine Studies students an introduction to the Thoroughbred racing industry and best veterinary practices with Santa Anita’s incredible team,” said Jodie Vella-Gregory, Vice... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Feb. 11, 2025) — The Jockey Club today introduced Naming AI, a new tool designed to assist customers with naming their horses. Naming AI enables users to generate five or 10 name options with a choice of one-, two-, or three-word names. Customers can use the tool to generate names based on words of their choosing or based on a foal’s pedigree. The tool adheres to the naming rules outlined in Rule 6F of the Principal Rules and Requirements of The American Stud Book, but as with all names being claimed or reserved, those generated by Naming AI are subject to approval by The Jockey Club Registry. “We’re very excited to launch this new naming feature,” said Andrew Chesser, director of Registration Services and director of Business Development for The Jockey Club. “Offering a naming tool that can be used to generate names from the horse’s pedigree or based on user input will help owners find creative names to submit for their horses.” Developed by... ...

From TOC ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 3, 2025) — The Thoroughbred Owners of California (TOC) has announced the winners of its 2024 statistical awards for leading California owners. For the fourth consecutive year, Reddam Racing was leading owner in total purse earnings and topped the standings for most California starts. Hronis Racing LLC led all owners by number of California wins; and leading owner honor for most California stakes wins was shared in a two-way tie by Cuyathy LLC and the partnership of Sondereker Racing, Eric Kruljac, Robert Fetkin and Richard Thornburgh, owners of Cal-bred sensation The Chosen Vron. Reddam Racing runners earned a total of $2,031,442 in California last year, with 32 wins from 252 starts. Multiple stakes winner Stay and Scam won the Irish O’Brien and Fran’s Valentine stakes at Santa Anita. Bred by Reddam and trained by Doug O’Neill, Stay and Scam was also second in the Grade 3 Wilshire S. and third in the Grade 3 Royal Heroine S. Reddam’s other stakes placed runners included Don’t Fight the Fed (2nd in the E.B. Johnston S.), Barely Functional (2nd... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Jan. 22, 2025) — Each year The Jockey Club publishes a report about how it supports the Thoroughbred industry. The 2025 report can be found here: The Jockey Club 2025 Industry Impact Report.  Since 2010, The Jockey Club has invested more than $110 million in the Thoroughbred industry. This year, it will invest more than $6 million to support initiatives such as equine safety and aftercare, industry growth, promotion of the sport, education, and national and international collaboration.   “We are proud of the many initiatives we support and that The Jockey Club’s mission has not wavered in more than 130 years,” said James L. Gagliano, president and COO, The Jockey Club. “It is so encouraging to see how many other organizations are committed to improving and growing Thoroughbred racing, especially in the areas of welfare of our athletes and promotion of our sport.” As the Thoroughbred breed registry for the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico, The Jockey Club Registry is a not-for-profit organization with the... ...

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Jan. 13, 2025) — The California Horse Racing Board meeting that was to be held this coming Thursday, January 16, has been canceled out of consideration for those affected by the fires in Southern California. The few items on that agenda will be moved to the February meeting, which will be held at Cal Expo on February 20 at 9:30 am. ...

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 11, 2025) — What started with a food truck guy, a street vendor, and a self-described “food enthusiast,” all wanting to provide food to Los Angeles County wildfire victims, has grown into a massive effort to collect donations and distribute them to those in need. It began at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Calif., and has now moved to Santa Anita Park‘s parking lot. Thousands of people are pouring into the racetrack, some bringing items to donate and others lining up for a chance to pick up needed supplies—all provided for free. The wildfires that have broken out across Los Angeles County are still raging, with the Eaton Fire closest to Santa Anita, but not threatening the racetrack. As more and more people lost their homes, Jerry Martinez, Juan Diaz, and Jimmy Medina wanted to help. “This all started with wanting to give hot dogs out to the local community of Pasadena that were victims of the fire,” Martinez said. “Originally, this was only supposed to be... ...

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Dec. 20, 2024) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted a meeting on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at Cal Expo. Chairman Gregory Ferraro chaired the meeting, joined by Vice Chair Oscar Gonzales and Commissioners Dennis Alfieri and Brenda Washington Davis. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link, accessed through the Media Room tab. Golden State Racing’s (GSR) decision to withdraw its license application for a thoroughbred meet at Pleasanton in 2025 greatly abbreviated the meeting agenda. Vice Chair Gonzales and Commissioner Alfieri both spoke to this issue, as they had worked tirelessly with industry leaders and northern horsemen and workers, first in an effort to preserve the GSR meet, and then when that could not be achieved, to help implement the plan for continued stabling in Pleasanton with horses being shuttled back and forth for racing in the south. Vice Chair Gonzales referenced the CHRB news release statement on this issue (link) and its optimism... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Dec. 20, 2024) — The Jockey Club today announced a pilot project, the Mare Incentive Program, that waives registration fees for certain 2026 foals of mares that meet criteria defined by The Jockey Club. “The Jockey Club is waiving registration fees for any 2026 foals of mares that are listed and that are introduced or returned to the breeding population in 2025 in an effort to stimulate interest in this group that appear to have left production,” said James L. Gagliano, president and COO, The Jockey Club. “We believe the complimentary software tool developed by TJC Innovations that prepares the report of these mares provides an invaluable asset for breeders as they consider potential matings.” Each December, The Jockey Club will provide a list of the mares identified in the Mare Incentive Program through Interactive Registration (IR). The list for the 2025 breeding season is available now, and The Jockey Club Registry will waive the registration application fee for 2026 foals out of these mares. “The... ...

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Nov. 22, 2024) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted a meeting on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at Cal Expo. Chairman Gregory Ferraro chaired the meeting, joined by Vice Chair Oscar Gonzales and Commissioners Dennis Alfieri, Brenda Washington Davis, and Thomas Hudnut. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link, accessed through the Media Room tab. In brief: While the Board considered the license application for the upcoming winter-spring meet at Santa Anita, track executive Aiden Butler took the opportunity to address a much larger issue. In essence, he said racing in California is heading toward disaster if Santa Anita and northern thoroughbred interests continue to compete with overlapping race meets. Both Santa Anita and Golden State Racing (GSR) at Pleasanton are cutting purses due largely to small fields and reduced handle. He described this as “suicide.” His solution, though not clearly spelled out in great detail, essentially calls for horses to continue training in the north but... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Nov. 21, 2024) — TJC Innovations (TJCI) today announced an update to the TLore management app that provides a streamlined version of the app for owners. Log on credentials dictate which app version a user views. The owner app enables owners to keep track of their horses with an easy-to-use, optimized interface. Owners can view their horse roster, race entries, results, race replays, and workouts, including horse notes, photos, and workout videos, all pulled directly from their trainer’s TLore data. “We wanted to make this version of the app as easy to use as possible while providing all the information an owner needs to keep track of their horses, anywhere, anytime.” said Tracy Attfield, founder of TLore and TJCI vice president. “Thanks to TLore’s now being part of TJC Innovations, we can offer real-time automated integration of race and workout data and a Premium PP subscription service. Plus, owners can customize which notifications they would like to receive, including new race entries, results, workouts,... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Nov. 19, 2024) — Stuart S. Janney III, chair of The Jockey Club, announced today his intention to step down from his position as chair, effective August 2025. He recommended, and the board of stewards of The Jockey Club agreed, that Everett Dobson, a member of the board of stewards, be chosen as his successor. The leadership transition will commence over the coming months, and Janney will remain on the board of stewards through his term, which will end in August 2026. Janney, a prominent Thoroughbred owner and breeder for several decades, was elected vice chair of The Jockey Club in 2010 and became chair in 2015. During his tenure, The Jockey Club expanded its commercial businesses and used those proceeds to make substantial investments in support of the sport. Janney was awarded the Eclipse Award of Merit earlier this year. He is chairman emeritus of Bessemer Trust and resides in Butler, Maryland. Dobson is a longtime owner and breeder of Thoroughbreds. He is... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Nov. 18, 2024) — Applications for The Jockey Club’s paid internship program for college students and recent college graduates and its five academic scholarships opened today. The internship program will accommodate up to three interns and is now available in the summer or fall based on the intern’s preference. Interns will gain exposure to all companies and departments within the organization, and they will have the opportunity to spend additional time in areas that they find to be of particular interest. The program will last eight weeks. The internships will take place in The Jockey Club’s offices located in Lexington, Ky. For more information and to view the application, interested candidates should visit bit.ly/tjcinternships. Applications are being accepted through January 3, 2025. Selected interns will be notified in February 2025. The Jockey Club scholarships will apply to the 2025-2026 academic year and are as follows: The Jockey Club Scholarship ($15,000; $7,500 per semester) is for those enrolled full time as an undergraduate or graduate student at... ...

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Oct. 30, 2024) — The California Horse Racing Board (CHRB or Board) is releasing this advisory as a useful guide for stakeholders and others who participate in Board meetings. It covers Board meeting-related processes, procedures, and practices based on the controlling statutes and regulations in order to promote efficiency in the consideration of agenda items and associated materials. This advisory applies immediately, so stakeholders submitting applications should work with their CHRB staff analyst to submit documents in a timely manner for the November Board meeting in three weeks.  CHRB rules require applications and associated materials to be filed with the Board at least 90 days prior to the first day of racing or operation for review, investigation, and approval.  Any subsequently updated materials to be included with the application must be submitted to the CHRB no later than the date delineated on the CHRB website. Even if agendized, the Board will not consider incomplete applications (e.g., race meet licenses, ADW approvals, mini-satellite licenses).  For a race meet... ...

From Press Release LOS ANGELES, Calif. (Oct. 22, 2024) – Harris Auerbach, a long-time thoroughbred industry stakeholder and bloodstock investor, is proud to introduce HorsePAUER Enterprises to the thoroughbred breeding, sales and racing industry. HorsePAUER will operate as a subsidiary of PAUER Consulting LLC and will offer its clients a diverse array of services including industry sales and marketing strategies, stakeholder development, communications and public relations services, commercial and private sales representation, breeding stock portfolio management and bloodstock/matings consultations. Auerbach has guided his bloodstock business for over 20 years including the campaigning of California’s all-time leading sire Unusual Heat and transitioning his family’s once regional business into a national based bloodstock operation. He was among the very first to promote a stallion and breeding operation with his company’s long running, fully dedicated website (www.auerbachracing.com) and a precocious for the industry social media presence. Auerbach also served as Vice Chairperson of the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association and is a visible staple on both the Kentucky and California racing/sales landscapes. Launched in... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Oct. 10, 2025) — The Jockey Club’s traceability initiative, which was announced at the 2023 Round Table Conference (bit.ly/3YiHCH7), launched this summer with email prompts to racetracks and sales companies with digital certificates of horses that have had no Interactive Registration (IR) activity and no Thoroughbred Incentive Program (T.I.P.) number in the past two years.  “We have reached out to many tracks and sales companies and have had a good result with certificates being transferred to the correct parties,” said Rick Bailey, registrar of The Jockey Club. “If anyone has a digital certificate of foal registration in their account for a horse they no longer possess, we encourage them to transfer the certificate to the current owner or appropriate certificate manager.” Starting this week, The Jockey Club Registry is sending an email to individuals listed as the certificate manager of a horse that has had no IR activity and no T.I.P. number in the past two years. The email directs certificate managers to a... ...

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Oct. 16, 2024) — Under the supervision of the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and dictated by state and federal standards, five additional horses have been euthanized at Los Alamitos after they tested positive for Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA). This follows the euthanasia of seven other EIA positive quarter horses earlier this month. All 12 horses were trained by Heath Taylor and stabled in his barn at Los Alamitos. As was reported October 3, CDFA ordered three of the Taylor horses to remain in quarantine as part of a group including those that tested positive. All three of those horses later tested positive and were among the five euthanized on Wednesday. After EIA was detected among Taylor horses in other states as well, CDFA and United States Department of Agriculture initiated epidemiological tracing of the disease. As such, all of Taylor’s horses at Los Alamitos were tested by CDFA. Those tests identified two additional positives in the Taylor barn, resulting in their euthanasia. The other... ...

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Sept. 19, 2024) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted a meeting on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at Cal Expo. Chairman Gregory Ferraro chaired the meeting, joined by Vice Chair Oscar Gonzales and Commissioners Dennis Alfieri,, John Carvelli, Damascus Castellanos, Brenda Washington Davis and Thomas Hudnut. Due to a power outage at Cal Expo, the CHRB was unable to stream the audio of the proceedings to the public. Technicians recorded the audio using battery power and later provided the audio file to the CHRB. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link, accessed through the Media Room tab. In brief: The Board conditionally approved the license application for Golden State Racing Association (GSR) to conduct a thoroughbred meet in Pleasanton that will operate from October 19 through December 15 with 26 programs on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The GSR license application was incomplete as it lacked the Advance Deposit Wagering agreement and more critically the mandatory... ...

From CARMA ARCADIA, Calif . (Sept. 15, 2024) — CARMA (California Retirement Management Account) is thrilled to announce the release of “What Horses Do After Racing: The Story of Good Carma,” a captivating children’s book written by renowned horse racing journalist Jay Privman and published by Red Cliff Publishing. This beautifully illustrated book is a legacy project for CARMA, dedicated to highlighting the remarkable transitions of racehorses into new and fulfilling careers beyond the track. About the Book “What Horses Do After Racing: The Story of Good Carma” takes young readers on a journey through the lives of four racehorses—Good Carma, Stylish Samantha, Lovely Lucinda, and Silly Billy—who, after their racing days are over, find new homes and purposes. The main character, Good Carma, is a beautiful chestnut filly with a splash of white on her face and legs, making it look like she’s wearing socks. The story showcases the horses’ dreams of their future careers. Through engaging storytelling and illustrations, the book highlights how each horse transitions to a... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 29, 2024) — The Jockey Club today announced its newly elected stewards and members. The new stewards are Gary Fenton, David O’Farrell, Everrett R. Dobson, and Vincent Viola. William S. Farish Jr. (vice chair) was reelected. The remaining stewards are Stuart S. Janney III (chair), Ian D. Highet (treasurer), William M. Lear (secretary), Barbara Banke, Louis A. Cella, Terry Finley, and R. Alex Rankin. The new members are Joseph Appelbaum, John Ballantyne PhD, Rick Gold, Marshall Gramm PhD, MV Magnier, Jon Miller, Garrett O’Rourke, and Jessica Steinbrenner. In 2002, Appelbaum co-founded Off The Hook LLC, a racing, sales, and breeding operation that has produced numerous stakes winners, including Breeders’ Cup and Eclipse Award winners Informed Decision and Spun To Run. Appelbaum was the 2018 champion of the Breeders’ Cup Betting Challenge. Appelbaum recently completed two terms (six-years) as president of the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association and was concurrently president of the Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association. Appelbaum served on the board of directors of the National... ...

From CHRB DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 16, 2024) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted a meeting on Thursday, August 15, 2024, at the Del Mar Hilton. Chairman Gregory Ferraro chaired the meeting, joined by Vice Chair Oscar Gonzales and Commissioners Brenda Washington Davis and Thomas Hudnut. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcastlink, accessed through the Media Room tab. In brief: The Board approved the license application for the Los Angeles Turf Club to conduct a race meet at Santa Anita Park that will operate from September 27 through October 27. Racing will be offered on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, and on Monday, October 14. Chairman Ferraro opened the discussion by announcing that henceforth all race meets in the state will no longer directly benefit from simulcast revenue on any day a program is canceled for reason other than inclement weather. Instead, the simulcast revenue from such a canceled program will be channeled into regulatory costs for all meets... ...

From DMTC Publicity DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 15, 2024) — Hall of Fame trainer Richard Mandella has been named the 20th winner of the coveted Laffit Pincay, Jr. Award and will be presented with it at Del Mar by Pincay during ceremonies on Saturday, August 31, Pacific Classic Day at the seaside oval.  The award, named for the Hall of Fame rider who is one of the greats of the game, is given annually to those who have served the sport of racing “with integrity, extraordinary dedication, determination and distinction.” Mandella, 74, has trained horses on his own since 1976 and has collected more than 2,300 winners and $157 million in purses. He becomes the sixth trainer to win the award.  ...

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Aug. 12, 2024) — John Carvelli, of Newport Beach, has been appointed to the California Horse Racing Board. Carvelli was a Partner and Executive Vice President at LIBERTY Dental Plan from 2004 to 2024. He is a member of the Catholic University of America Board of Trustees, The FAMILY San Francisco and the North American Boxing Federation Executive Committee. Carvelli earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Politics from the Catholic University of America. This position requires Senate confirmation and the compensation is $100 per diem. Carvelli is registered without party preference. Carvelli replaces Wendy Mitchell. ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 6, 2024) — The Jockey Club Thoroughbred Incentive Program (T.I.P.) today announced that entries for all divisions of the 2024 T.I.P. Championships are now open. Additionally, there is an online declaration form that can be used to declare all horses for T.I.P. Championships. Please note that this form must be used for horses that are automatically qualified or horses that require a Hardship Request to qualify. More information about qualifying can be found below. 2024 T.I.P. Championships Open for Entries T.I.P. Championships in hunter (crossrails to 3’0″), jumper (2’6″ to 3’6″), English pleasure, combined test (starter to preliminary), dressage (introductory to FEI TOC), Western dressage (TOC), Western pleasure, ranch riding, competitive trail, and in-hand will occur at Stable View in Aiken, South Carolina. The show will commence the evening of Thursday, October 3, and will continue through Sunday, October 6. Important deadlines are as follows: Declaration closing date: Sunday, September 15, 2024 Hardship Request closing date: Saturday, August 31, 2024 On-time entries close: Monday, September... ...