From TOC ARCADIA, Calif. (Feb. 16, 2019) – The Thoroughbred Owners of California (TOC) has announced the winners of its 2018 statistical awards for leading California owners. For the second consecutive year, Hronis Racing LLC was leading owner in total purse earnings. Hronis Racing also led all owners by number of California wins and number of stakes wins. Reddam Racing LLC takes the award for most California starts. Hronis Racing runners earned a total of $3,838,910 in California last year, with 40 victories from 253 starts, including 12 stakes wins. Leading their stakes runners was Accelerate, winner of the Santa Anita Handicap, Gold Cup at Santa Anita Stakes, San Pasqual Stakes, Awesome Again Stakes, and the $1 Million TVG Pacific Classic Stakes. Their other top stakes runners were Catalina Cruiser (winner of the Pat O’Brien Stakes and San Diego Handicap at Del Mar), Gift Box, Yuvetsi, Shenandoah Queen, and Edwards Going Left. Reddam Racing made an incredible 300 California starts in 2018 for earnings of $3,000,690. Their top stakes runners... ...

From NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (Jan. 17, 2019) — Earlier this week the Department of Justice (DOJ) released an opinion reversing its 2011 opinion that the federal Wire Act applies only to sports wagering and not to other types of online wagering. The new opinion says the Wire Act applies to all online gaming including online poker and online lottery ticket sales. Alex Waldrop, NTRA president and CEO, issued the following statement regarding the DOJ’s decision to reconsider whether the Wire Act applies to non-sports gambling: “As expected, the Department of Justice issued a lengthy opinion reversing its 2011 opinion by stating that the Wire Act applies to all forms of online wagering, not just sports wagering. This opinion does not affect our longstanding right to conduct interstate online wagering on horse racing as long it is conducted in compliance with the Interstate Horseracing Act. We will continue to review the opinion and update the industry as the situation develops.” Since the NTRA led the successful effort to amend the Interstate... ...

From Ballena Vista Farm RAMONA, Calif. (Jan. 12, 2019) — Williamson Racing LLC and Ballena Vista Farm’s Grade 2 stakes winner Texas Ryano had his first reported foal arrive on January 10 at Ballena Vista Farm. The filly foal is out of the stakes producing Yes It’s True broodmare Kantstopdancin and was bred by Ballena Vista Farm. The 2019 Texas Ryano filly is a half-sister to the 2018 juvenile  “TDN Rising Star” Mr. Paytience, who earned that status in his debut. Kantstopdancin is a half-sister to Grade 2 winners Striking Dancer and Raymond Tusk.  Texas Ryano is a son of Curlin and Texas Ryano also was a “TDN Rising Star” in his winning debut and went on to earn Grade 2 black type by taking the Hollywood Turf Cup Stakes for Warren B. Williamson. The Williamson homebred earned additional black type in the John Henry Turf Championship Stakes (Gr. 2), Del Mar H. Presented by The Japan Racing Association (Gr. 2) and the King Pellinore Stakes. Texas Ryano is from... ...

From Woodbridge Farm SAN MIGUEL, Calif. (Jan. 7, 2019) — Rancho San Miguel’s multiple Grade II-winning stallion Danzing Candy had his first foal hit the ground on January 5 at Woodbridge Farm. The filly was bred by Premier Thoroughbreds and is out of the stakes-placed producing Monarchos broodmare Ms Glory Be; she was an earner of over $228,000. Sue Greene, owner and operator of Woodbridge Farm describes the filly as “Quality from top to bottom and head to tail. She stands up so pretty she looks like a foal of several weeks old. Nice bone, correct and a lot like her sire, very solid.” Danzing Candy covered a huge book of mares in 2018 with that book totaling 129 mares.   Danzing Candy a multiple grade two winner of three graded races is a son of Twirling Candy who earned $700,930 with his six wins from eleven starts and is the leading earner of his sire. The four-year-old horse is out of Talkin and Singing (Songandaprayer); this is the female family... ...

From Ballena Vista RAMONA, Calif. (Dec. 22, 2018) — I’ll Have Another,  U.S. champion and dual classic winner of the Kentucky Derby and Preakness, arrived today at  Ballena Vista Farm for the upcoming 2019 breeding season and is now available for inspection.  Farm manager Michael Jimenez and Donald Cohn farm owner were recent visitors at UC Davis, where I’ll Have Another was undergoing USDA testing and quarantine; they both came away impressed with his personality and his well-made conformation. Michael, with over thirty-five years in the California thoroughbred industry, expects I’ll Have Another to be the benchmark of sires standing on the West Coast. “Pedigree, good looks, conformation, race record and progeny production point out that I’ll Have Another will without a doubt be a top sire here in California. His photographs reveal him to be as good looking as he is and his physical appearance up close is stunning.” I’ll Have Another will stand for the introductory fee of $6,000 live foal as the property of Ballena Vista Farm.... ...

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Dec. 17, 2018) — Gov. Brown appointed Dennis Alfieri and Debra Reed to the California Horse Racing Board of Directors on Monday. Alfieri, 60, of Pasadena, has been chief executive officer of the Sheriff’s Youth Foundation since 2017. He was principal and a founding partner at Bantry Property Services LLC from 2005 to 2010 and general partner and founder of Twin Palms Restaurants from 1991 to 2005. Alfieri is a member of the Pasadena Optimist Club and the Los Angeles County Harbor Commission. This position requires Senate confirmation and the compensation is $100 per diem. Alfieri is a Republican. Reed, 62, of San Diego, held several positions at Sempra Energy from 2010 to 2018, including executive chairman, chairman, president and chief executive officer and executive vice president. She held several positions at San Diego Gas and Electric and Southern California Gas Company from 2000 to 2010, including president and chief executive officer, president and chief operating officer and president and chief financial officer. Reed is a member of the... ...

From CHRB CYPRESS, Calif. (Dec. 14, 2018) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, December 13, at Los Alamitos Race Course. Chairman Chuck Winner presided. Vice Chair Madeline Auerbach and Commissioners Fred Maas and Alex Solis also were in attendance. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: ·        The Board approved rules and regulatory amendments establishing procedures, prohibitions and penalties for the CHRB’s already robust out-of-competition testing (OOCT) program consistent with the model rule adopted by the Association of Racing Commissioners International. The changes establish specific regulations for OOCT, thereby providing a greater deterrence for any administrations of unauthorized, prohibited substances and grounds for the prosecution of findings of violations in any OOCT biological samples. ·        In significant developments in the CHRB’s enforcement division, Executive Director Rick Baedeker announced the appointment of Shawn Loehr as Chief of Enforcement and Licensing, along with the retirement of Special Investigator James Hamilton, after 18 years with... ...

From CHRB DEL MAR, Calif. (Nov. 30, 2018) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, November 29, (rescheduled from November 15) at Del Mar Surfside Race Place. Chair Chuck Winner presided. Vice Chair Madeline Auerbach and Commissioners Araceli Ruano and Alex Solis also were in attendance. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: ·        The Board approved the license application for the Los Angeles Turf Club to conduct a race meet at Santa Anita Park from December 26 through June 23 and to begin hosting simulcast wagering on December 19. Twinspires will not be permitted to accept Advance Deposit Wagering (ADW) wagers on Santa Anita races and Santa Anita will not be authorized to provide its signal to Twinspires unless the Board receives an agreement between them by December 21. Both parties expressed confidence that an agreement will be reached before the deadline. ·        The Board approved the license application for the Pacific... ...

From NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (Nov. 29, 2018) — House Ways and Means Chairman Kevin Brady (R-TX) released bipartisan tax and oversight legislation earlier this week that includes, among its wide range of provisions, three-year depreciation for racehorses. Under the proposed package, three-year racehorse depreciation would return for 2018 and grant taxpayers the option to depreciate all racehorses over a three-year period.   Three-year racehorse depreciation was most recently available to the industry in 2017 but Congress did not renew it for 2018 as part of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) passed in December 2017. The TCJA did include 100% bonus depreciation and a $1 million Sec. 179 expense allowance for qualified depreciable property, two important investment incentives that lessened the need for three-year depreciation in many cases. However, three-year depreciation continues to be a beneficial option for many racehorse owners, especially racing partnerships with multiple passive owners, as it better aligns deductions with corresponding income opportunities on an annual basis.   The presence of three-year depreciation language in... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Nov. 27, 2018) — As the end of the year approaches, The Jockey Club reminds owners, breeders, and agents who handle foal certificates that an Interactive Registration (IR) account is required for those who manage and transfer digital foal certificates. Starting with the 2018 foal crop, The Jockey Club Registry transitioned from hard copies of foal certificates to digital copies. Individuals can create their IR accounts at registry.jockeyclub.com.  Through the use of digital certificates, users experience a host of benefits: ·         Users can access digital certificates any time on computers and mobile devices. ·         Owners and agents do not have to worry about losing or damaging certificates. ·         Operations are streamlined, whether in the racing office, on the sales grounds, while transporting horses internationally, or when executing private transactions. The registry expects that additional enhancements will be introduced in the future as various local and national racing entities incorporate their authentications to the certificate. “Our online Interactive Registration service enables digital foal certificates to... ...

From Los Alamitos Publicity CYPRESS, Calif. (Nov. 26, 2018) — A pair of stakes for Golden State Series eligibles will be held at the upcoming Winter Thoroughbred meet at Los Alamitos. The stakes will be run at one mile and are ungraded. The $100,000 Soviet Problem – for fillies – will be offered Saturday, Dec. 15 while the $100,000 King Glorious will be run Sunday, Dec. 16. Both are for 2-year-olds bred or sired in California. The eight-day season will begin Thursday, Dec. 6 and continue through Sunday, Dec. 16. The $300,000-guaranteed Los Alamitos CashCall Futurity and the $300,000-guaranteed Starlet – for fillies – will be renewed on Saturday, Dec. 8. Hall of Famer Bob Baffert became the first trainer to win the Starlet and CashCall Futurity in the same year in 2017, capturing the Starlet with Dream Tree and the Futurity – via disqualification – with McKinzie. Baffert has won all four runnings of the Futurity at Los Alamitos, taking the 2014 renewal with Dortmund, then scoring with Mor... ...

By Bloodhorse.com BONSALL, Calif. (Nov. 1, 2018) — The old adage goes: “Hard times don’t make heroes. It is during the hard times when the hero within us is revealed.” The fire at the San Luis Rey Training Center in December brought out the hero in many of the staff and barn workers, as they attempted to save as many horses as they could under chaotic conditions. As a collective group they were honored Nov. 1 at Churchill Downs during the Race Track Chaplaincy of America White Horse Awards. Traditionally the White Horse Award goes to an individual or group who has performed a heroic act on behalf of human or horse, but this year was different. The well-attended event, held for the sixteenth time, took place in the Triple Crown Room of the Jockey Club Suites. While Hall of Fame rider Mike Smith was the keynote speaker, the backstretch workers of San Luis Rey were the true honorees. “We had the most nominations we’ve had in a while,” said... ...

ARCADIA, Calif. (Oct. 27, 2018) – The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, October 25, at Santa Anita Park. Chairman Chuck Winner presided. Vice Chair Madeline Auerbach and Commissioners Araceli Ruano and Alex Solis also were in attendance. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: ·        Chairman Winner began the meeting with an announcement that Commissioner Jesse Choper has resigned from the Board citing personal matters after serving nearly 12 years as a commissioner. “The Board will miss him, and racing will miss his wisdom, thoughtfulness, stability, and wit,” said the chairman, who went on to express confidence that a new commissioner would be appointed in the near future. This leaves the Board with five members. ·        The Board put over until November consideration of the Pacific Racing Association’s license application for winter racing at Golden Gate Fields (GGF) largely because the application did not list any out-of-state signals for importation other than Hong... ...

From Ballena Vista Farm RAMONA, Calif. (Oct. 12, 2018) — Conquest Farenheit, a multiple stakes winning son of Scat Daddy, has been retired and will stand at Ballena Vista Farm for an introductory fee of $3,000 live foal as the property of Rockingham Ranch  and Chad Littlefield. After breaking his maiden by five lengths as a juvenile, he was G2 stakes placed in his second lifetime outing while being campaigned by Conquest Stables, LLC. Conquest Farenheit, as a two-year-old, was purchased for $735,000 by Chad Littlefield and Rockingham Ranch from the dispersal of Conquest Stables, LLC and turned over to Peter Miller. Under his new connections Conquest Farenheit became a multiple stakes winner at three years of age taking the Pasadena Stakes and the Baffle Stakes at Santa Anita. He completed his career with a second place finish in the Rainbow Stakes. Following his Pasadena Stakes win in wire-to-wire fashion by two and a quarter lengths in 1:33.58, trainer Peter Miller said, “What a horse. This is a serious horse.... ...

From Special T Thoroughbreds TEMECULA, Calif. (Oct. 8, 2018) — Grade II winner Anthony’s Cross has been acquired by David Chase and Rick Taylor to stand at Special T Thoroughbreds for the 2019 breeding season. Anthony’s Cross is by Indian Charlie, the champion sire of over 90 stakes winners and the sensational young sire Uncle Moe, and out of the Unbridled mare Screening. Anthony’s Cross won the Grade II Robert B. Lewis and has earned $230,790. He also defeated the Breeders Cup dirt miler champion Tapizan. Anthony’s Cross’ oldest crop is 3 years old with a stakes-placed winner, Yeehaw, along with six winners out of 11 starters.  Anthony’s Cross will stand for $2,500 live foal.  ...

From CHRB ARCADIA, Calif. (Sept. 29, 2018) – The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, September 27, at Santa Anita Park. Chairman Chuck Winner presided. Vice Chair Madeline Auerbach and Commissioners Jesse Choper, Fred Maas and Alex Solis also were in attendance. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: ·        The Board approved the license application for a fall meet at Del Mar beginning November 9 through December 2. Joe Harper, chief executive officer of the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, indicated the same enhanced safety protocols that helped protect horses for the last three meets at Del Mar will remain in place. He specifically thanked the CHRB for its active support in this safety effort and horsemen, who he said have been especially cautious in entering horses they feel might not be physically race ready. These safety protocols have helped reduce equine fatalities at Del Mar by more than 70 percent. ·        The Board... ...

SANTA YNEZ, Calif. (Sept. 26, 2018) – Longtime Thoroughbred breeder and owner Marvin Malmuth passed away earlier this month at his home. He was 89. Malmuth was the founder and president of the Retla Steamship Co., a cargo ship charter business. Malmuth was also a Thoroughbred Race horse breeder of California-bred stakes winner Oberwald and owner of multiple graded winner Explicit. He served on the Board of Directors of the Thoroughbred Owners of California. Malmuth is survived by his wife Sonja; children Karen, David, Michael and Robyn and grandchildren Kate, Amy Josh, Drew and Daniel; brother Eddie Malmuth and numerous nieces and nephews. ...

From CTFMA FALLBROOK, Calif. (Sept. 22, 2018) — It is with great sadness that we were informed that our past California Thoroughbred Farm Managers Association President Bob Curtis passed away. Bob was a leader, a horseman, a racing supporter, a dear friend to many of us, and an amazing father to his only daughter Carol.  There will be two memorials for Bob one in Scottsdale, Ariz., where he recently moved. The other one will be held at REINS in Fallbrook. It is requested instead of flowers or gifts that donations be made to the REINS program. Arizona Memorial Service – Saturday, Oct. 6, 1 p.m., Messinger Pinnacle Peak Mortuary, 8555 E Pinnacle Peak Rd, Scottsdale, Ariz. California Memorial Service – Oct. 14, 11 a.m., REINS, 4461 S Mission Rd, Fallbrook, Calif. ...

From TOC ALBANY, Calif. (Sept. 20, 2018) – The Thoroughbred Owners of California invites all members to the Northern California Annual Meeting, to be held on Saturday, Oct. 20, at 10 a.m. in the Bay View Lounge at Golden Gate Fields. The general business meeting will allow directors an opportunity to bring the membership up to date on important issues and will include a question-and-answer session. An award presentation will also be made, and a complimentary buffet luncheon will be served. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 626-574-6620 or at toconline.com. ...

From Keeneland VERSAILLES, Ky. (Sept. 17, 2018) — The late Ed Hudon loved the Thoroughbred industry in general and Keeneland in particular, according to those who knew him best. Hudon died Thursday, several hours after his Sierra Farm-bred American Pharoah filly sold for $1.4 million at the Keeneland September Yearling Sale. “Keeneland gave us a bottle of champagne (to celebrate the million-dollar sale) and when we went back to the house we poured a glass for Ed,” said Farm Manager Michael Callanan. “We told him the filly sold for $1.4 million and we like to think he knew. We had a toast in his honor.” Sitting with Sierra Farm’s consignment on Saturday, Hudon’s widow, Sharon, recalled his across-the-board generosity that extended to his horses. She noted that Sierra has a band of retired runners and about 30 active broodmares. “I always wanted to sell a million-dollar horse so when Ed died the next day, I feel like that was his last gift to me,” she said. Sharon recalled how much... ...

From CHRB DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 24, 2018) – The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, August 23, at Del Mar Surfside Race Place. Chair Chuck Winner presided. Vice Chair Madeline Auerbach and Commissioners Fred Maas and Jesse Choper also were in attendance. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: ·        Acting on a recommendation from Medication Committee Chair Madeline Auerbach and Committee Member Solis, the Board approved for public notice a proposed regulation to require veterinarians for horses claimed in races to report the administration of any intra-articular injections to the new veterinarians. The official veterinarian will oversee this procedure but the information itself will pass directly from one practicing veterinarian to another, retaining its confidentiality. Vice Chair Auerbach stressed the cooperative nature of discussions with veterinarians, trainers and owners that led to agreement on this matter. ·        The Board approved the license application for Pacific Racing Association (PRA) to conduct a race... ...

From TOBA LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 22, 2018) – The Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association named Richard Barton the California Breeder of the Year . TOBA also announced that eFive Racing, Godolphin, Juddmonte Farm, Rockingham Ranch and the partnership of Winchell Thoroughbreds and Three Chimneys Farm have been selected as finalists for the TOBA National Owner of the Year. The TOBA National Owner of the Year will be announced live at the TOBA National Awards Dinner, which will be held on Saturday, September 8 at the Woodford Reserve Club at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. TOBA will also honor breeders from 23 states and Canada.  The National Breeder of the Year and the National Small Breeder of the Year will also be disclosed at the TOBA National Awards Dinner. Other TOBA national award winners include Win Approval, dam of World Approval, who has been named as the National Broodmare of the Year and Mended, who will be honored as Claiming Crown Horse of the Year, presented by the National HBPA. The... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 22, 2018) — The Jockey Club today announced the election of six new members: Craig Bandoroff, Michael Del Giudice, Staci Hancock, James Lawson, Maria Niarchos-Gouazé, and Ogden Phipps II. Craig Bandoroff owns Denali Stud, which he founded in 1990. Denali is one of the nation’s leading consignors, and the farm has sold horses such as Animal Kingdom, Uncle Mo, Real Quiet, and Champagne Room. Bandoroff is on the board of directors of the Kentucky Thoroughbred Association, Kentucky Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders, and the Kentucky Equine Education Project. He is a founding member and former president of the Consignors and Breeders Association. Michael Del Giudice has served as the chairman of the board for the New York Racing Association since 2015. He is the chair and senior managing director of Carnegie Hudson Resources LLC, a capital markets advisory firm, and the co-chair of Universal Marine Medical Supply International. He is also a senior managing director of Millennium Capital Markets LLC, an investment banking firm.... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 11, 2018) — The Jockey Club is projecting a 2019 North American registered Thoroughbred foal crop of 21,500. The 21,500 foals estimated for 2019 is the same as the 2018 foal crop projection, which was announced in August 2017. The foal crop projection, traditionally announced in mid-August, is computed by using Reports of Mares Bred (RMBs) received to date for the 2018 breeding season. RMBs are to be filed by August 1 of each breeding season. “We estimate that approximately 85% of reports of mares bred, which the foal crop estimate is based on, have been received,” said Matt Iuliano, The Jockey Club’s executive vice president and executive director. Additional foal crop information is available in The Jockey Club’s online fact book at jockeyclub.com/factbook.asp and in the online state fact books. Stallion owners who have not returned their RMBs for the 2018 breeding season are encouraged to do so as soon as possible. Interactive Registration, which enables registered users to perform virtually all... ...

From NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (Aug. 9, 2018) — The U.S Department of the Treasury and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) today released proposed regulations for the 20 percent deduction allowed for pass-through businesses, a provision found in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Small business owners now have more clarity on how they may be able to take advantage of the deduction that was included in the tax reform legislation passed in December 2017.   Owners of businesses such as sole proprietorships, partnerships, trusts and S corporations now may be able to deduct 20 percent of their qualified business income when filing their tax returns. Qualified business income includes domestic income from a trade or business but does not include employee income, capital gains, interest and dividend income. Additionally, business owners can combine their businesses into a single unit to claim the benefit, thereby making the process of filing more efficient and less costly.   “Small business owners around the country, including those in the horse racing and breeding industry, have... ...

From DMTC Publicity DEL MAR, Calif. (July 22, 2018) — Martine Bellocq, the courageous trainer who went into the fires of hell in an attempt to save her horses last December at San Luis Rey Downs training center, has been selected to be the recipient of the 15th Laffit Pincay, Jr. Award. The prestigious honor and handsome trophy named for, and bestowed by, the Hall of Fame rider will be presented to Bellocq on Saturday, August 18, the day the track runs its signature race, the $1,000,000 TVG Pacific Classic. Bellocq, who suffered life-threatening burns over much of her body, then had to go through a series of demanding surgeries and subsequently lost a foot due to circulation complications. Despite all that, she has steadfastly worked her way back from near death in a display of strength and spirit that has amazed her doctors, family and friends. When she leads the contingent of heroes who’ll be on board that afternoon, she’ll be making her first public appearance since the December... ...

From NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 18, 2018) — Click here to view the 2017 NTRA Legislative Action Campaign Annual Report   Features of the report include:   A federal legislative and regulatory summary of issues important to horse racing and breeding A list of 2017 contributors to the NTRA’s Legislative Action Campaign through the NTRA ¼% Check-off Program and other NTRA fundraising programs Participating sale company calendars and overall sales calendar  · Videos explaining the ¼% Check-off Program and the NTRA’s strategy in Washington, D.C. Member benefits information from NTRA Advantage partners like John Deere, Sherwin-Williams, Office Depot and others                  Thank you to all individuals, farms, racing stables/partnerships, bloodstock services, sale companies and industry organizations that contributed to one or more of the NTRA’s legislative fundraising programs. This widespread support allows the NTRA’s federal legislative team to best represent the industry in Washington, D.C.   Please share this report with family, friends and colleagues who share your enthusiasm for horse racing and breeding. ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (July 16, 2018) — Horse Racing Reform, an industry initiative led by The Jockey Club and Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association, announced today the launch of an updated website, horseracingreform.org, designed to better inform and educate the general public, racing fans, and industry personnel on safety, integrity, and welfare matters in horse racing. The mobile-friendly site includes a range of new educational tools and resources to keep users apprised of advocacy efforts. Among the additions to the website: –       Updated maps showing adoption of model rule language for out-of-competition testing, third-party Lasix administration, and controlled therapeutic medication thresholds –       Updated map and in-depth summary showing adoption of the National Uniform Medication Program –       An “Education” section dedicated to providing information on equine health and safety –       A regular blog from Joe Gorajec, former executive director of the Indiana Horse Racing Commission and a longtime advocate for integrity in racing –       Links to state rulebooks and commission websites –       A searchable list of Lasix-free runners... ...

From CHRB LOS ALAMITOS, Calif. (July 13, 2018) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, July 12, at Los Alamitos Race Course. Chair Chuck Winner presided. Vice Chair Madeline Auerbach and Commissioners Fred Maas and Araceli Ruano also were in attendance. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: ·        CHRB Executive Director Rick Baedeker reported on some of the safety measures that have contributed to a 36-percent reduction in equine fatalities leading into the Del Mar meet, where those measures will be augmented in a significant effort to protect horses and riders. Among the steps being taken with support from management and the cooperation of horsemen, there will be at least one CHRB official veterinarian and safety steward at Del Mar seven days a week; there will be as many as three examining veterinarians on duty; horses deemed at risk for injury due to extended layoffs or prior history will be examined, perhaps... ...

From Los Alamitos Publicity CYPRESS, Calif. (July 11, 2018) — Four stakes worth a guaranteed total of $350,000 will be offered during the upcoming Los Angeles County Fair at Los Alamitos meet. The 12-day season will begin Thursday, Sept. 6 and continue through Sunday, Sept. 23. Racing will be conducted on a Thursday-Sunday basis. A stakes doubleheader will be presented Saturday, Sept. 8. Three-year-old fillies will run six furlongs in the $75,000-guaranteed Beverly J. Lewis and 3-year-olds & up either bred or sired in California will compete in the $75,000-guaranteed E.B. Johnston at one mile. The final two Saturdays of the season will feature the $100,000-guaranteed Barretts Debutante for 2-year-old fillies Sept. 15 and the $100,000-guaranteed Barretts Juvenile for colts & geldings Sept. 22. Both races are at 6 ½ furlongs and restricted to horses offered at any Barretts sale. Saturday, Sept. 8, Beverly J. Lewis Stakes, Six Furlongs, $75,000, 3-Year-Old Fillies Saturday, Sept. 8, E.B. Johnston Stakes, One Mile, $75,000, 3-Year-Olds & Up (California bred or sired) Saturday, Sept.... ...

From TOC DEL MAR, Calif. (July 11, 2018) — Thoroughbred Owners of California invites all members to the Southern California annual meeting, to be held at the Del Mar Veranda Cafe on August 11 at 8:30 a.m. The general business meeting will allow directors an opportunity to bring the membership up to date on important issues and will include and question-and-answer session. Award presentations will also be made to the winners of the annual Owners Awards, and a complimentary buffet breakfast will be served. Reservations are required. RSVP to 626-574-6620 or toconline.com   ...

From TOC DEL MAR, July 8, 2018) — All horsemen are invited to TOC’s free New Owner Seminar on Sunday, July 22, at 9 a.m. Following the seminar, a tour of the barns will be given by leading trainers.  Registration is required and must be done before noon on Friday, July 20. Listen to a panel of experts discuss acquiring horses at auction and through private sales, claiming horses and joining partnerships and syndicates. To register: toconline.com/events/new-owner-seminar-2 ...

By Bloodhorse.com SACRAMENTO, Calif. (June 29, 2018) — About a month after members of the California Horse Racing Board promised changes to the composition of stewards on the Southern California racing circuit, changes have indeed been made ahead of the upcoming summer meet at Del Mar. According to the CHRB, steward Scott Chaney, who has served in that position in Southern California for more than a decade, will be the first steward shuffled in an ongoing “rotation” between the two regions of the state. Chaney will move to the Sonoma County Fair meet at Santa Rosa, which begins racing Aug. 2, according to CHRB executive director Rick Baedeker. Baedeker also said Chaney, who is a lawyer, will help the CHRB with “an upcoming investigation” that was in need of a lawyerly presence. John Herbuveaux, who had been serving as a steward in Northern California, will take Chaney’s place at Del Mar, which begins racing July 18. “It’s a difficult thing for any steward—picking up and going somewhere else,” said Baedeker, who,... ...

From CHRB PLEASANTON, Calif (June 22, 2018) – The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, June 21, at the Alameda County Fairgrounds. Chair Chuck Winner presided. Vice Chair Madeline Auerbach and Commissioners Jesse Choper, Fred Maas, Araceli Ruano and Alex Solis also were in attendance. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: ·        The Board unanimously approved the license application for a summer race meet at Golden Gate Fields “contingent upon the receipt of agreements with each satellite wagering facility in Northern California, as required by law, including the TOC (Thoroughbred Owners of California) horsemen’s agreement and all other outstanding items mentioned in the staff analysis by the close of business on July 2, 2018.” Although a number of issues have been publicly discussed, including Northern California racing dates and the viability of simulcast operations, the only issue before the Board Thursday was the license application submitted by Pacific Racing Association (PRA)) for the... ...

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 21, 2018) — Soul of the Matter, who stood for many years at EA Ranches in California, died on Wednesday in Montana, where he had been retired. He was 27. Soul of the Matter was bred by Burt Bacharach’s Blue Seas Music, raced for Bacharach and was trained by Richard Mandella. A winner of seven of 16 starts, Soul of the Matter earned $2,302,818. His biggest win came in the 1994 Super Derby (gr. I) with a neck victory over Concern. He also won that year’s San Felipe Stakes (gr. II) prior to a fifth-place finish behind Go for Gin in the Kentucky Derby (gr. I). He also finished fourth in that year’s Breeders’ Cup Classic (gr. I). Soul of the Matter is perhaps best known for his final start, an epic battle with Cigar in the inaugural $4-million Dubai World Cup. Soul of the Matter challenged the Horse of the Year strongly in the stretch but came up a half-length short in the 1 1/4-mile race. ...

ARCADIA, Calif. (June 21, 2018) – Pete Fer, longtime member of the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association, recently passed away. Fer bred and owned Cal-bred stakes horses Uncaged Fury (winner of the 1994 California Cup Sprint), Caballo De Oro, John’s Clue and Mystery’s Edge. Notable trainers who worked with Fer were John Canty, Humberto Ascanio, Louie Cenicola and Ron Ellis. Fer owned a heating, plumbing and air conditioning company in the South Bay. ...

By Bloodhorse.com LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 15, 2018) — James L. Gagliano, president and COO of The Jockey Club, was elected chairman of the American Horse Council’s Board of Trustees during the AHC’s annual meeting and national issues forum. Gagliano succeeds Dr. Jerry Black who served as chairman the past three years. “I’m honored to lead the American Horse Council Board and follow the very successful tenure of Dr. Jerry Black,” Gagliano said. “Dr. Black set a very high bar for the AHC, leading the successful transition from longtime president Jay Hickey to current president Julie Broadway, updating the organization’s strategic plan, and completing the first comprehensive Economic Impact Study of the United States Equine Industry in 14 years.” Gagliano became president and COO of The Jockey Club in 2010, where he had previously served as executive vice president & chief administrative officer since 2005. Prior to joining The Jockey Club, he served as executive vice president of Magna Entertainment Corporation’s Maryland racing operations, where he was responsible for the day-to-day... ...

DEL MAR, Calif. (June 12, 2018) — CARMAcares presents its 11th Annual Hoedown for Horses Charity Fundraiser on Sunday, July 22, at the Del Mar Paddock, beginning at 6:30 p.m. The event supports the aftercare of retired racehorses. There will be a BBQ dinner, a live band, square dancing, line dancing and mechanical bulls. For further information, visit www.CARMA4horses.org or call 626-574-6622. ...

From TOC PLEASANTON, Calif. (June 8, 2018) — All horsemen are invited to attend the TOC Open Forum at the Alameda County Fairgrounds, Saturday, June 23, 2018 at 10 a.m.   Meet TOC staff and directors for a discussion of current events and a chance to have questions answered. ...

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 27, 2018) — Due to a $70 million increase in overall pari-mutuel handle dating back to Dec. 26, Santa Anita Park has announced a 10 percent increase in overnight purses, effective Friday, June 1, through closing day, Sunday, June 24. “The fact that we’re up $70 million in handle is obviously very gratifying and there are several factors involved, including field size, which is very important,” said Tim Ritvo, Chief Operating Officer for The Stronach Group (TSG). “We’ve seen an increase of a half a horse per race, so that has certainly helped. Considering where we were from an economic standpoint a year ago, it’s gratifying to be able to card 18 additional races over the same time period and still be in a very good position in terms of our purse account. “We appreciate the cooperation received from the TOC (Thoroughbred Owners of California), the CTT (California Thoroughbred Trainers), our staff and most importantly, the economic engine that drives our business, our... ...

ARCADIA, CA – The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, May 24, at Santa Anita Park. Chairman Chuck Winner presided. Vice Chair Madeline Auerbach and Commissioners Fred Maas and Alex Solis also were in attendance. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: ·        The same safety measures that helped protect horses during the highly successful 2017 summer and fall meets at Del Mar, including the hiring of additional veterinarians to track and examine horses, will be in place for this summer’s meet, Del Mar representatives advised the Board during discussion of their license application. The Board approved the application for a meet that will open Wednesday, July 18, and run through Monday, September 3 (Labor Day). Del Mar will be adding three wagers: an early Pick 4 beginning with the second race, a late Pick 5 involving the last five races, and Win, Place, Show Parlay wagering on every race. ·        During the Public... ...

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Apr. 20, 2018) — Although an official agreement has not been made, industry stakeholders said April 19 they have reached a compromise that could lead to limited transfer of veterinary records for claimed racehorses in California. During the monthly scheduled meeting of the California Horse Racing Board Thursday at Santa Anita Park, CHRB commissioner Madeline Auerbach said she hopes a proposal will be on the agenda for action during the regulatory body’s May meeting. The proposal detailed in the discussion packet for the Thursday meeting would create a new rule “that would create an exception for veterinarians … to disclose medical records of horses claimed in a claiming race, without violating rules regarding confidentiality. … (The rule) provides an additional safeguard for horses claimed in a claiming race by ensuring the horse’s medical records are transferred to the new owner.” That specific proposal was not addressed Thursday, but according to Auerbach and Alan Balch, the executive director of the California Thoroughbred Trainers, a new proposal would... ...

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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