From Lovacres Ranch WARNER SPRINGS, Calif. (Jan. 28, 2015) – Khozan, a debut winner at Gulfstream Park on Saturday, is from the family of California stallion Empire Way. Khozan is a half-brother to three-time Eclipse champion Royal Delta, who is a full brother to Empire Way, as all are out of the multiple-graded stakes winning A.P. Indy mare Delta Princess. Khozan is by Distorted Humor, Royal Delta  and Empire Way are by Empire Maker. Empire Way stands at Lovacres Ranch in Warner Springs. ...

The catalog for the 26th Annual Barretts Sale of Selected Two-Year-Olds in Training is now on-line at www.barretts.com and will be mailed soon.  This auction of 116 two-year-olds will be held on Monday, February 23 in the Hinds Pavilion located on the grounds of Fairplex Park in Pomona, California beginning at 2:00 p.m.   The Select Sale catalog is also available for your Ipad.   The official training preview is scheduled to be held on Friday, February 20 on the Fairplex Park racetrack adjacent to Barretts, beginning at 10:00 a.m.   The preview will be streamed live at http://www.barretts.com/sales/ViewSale/index.asp   Video clips for each preview can be viewed on-line by the afternoon following the preview at www.barretts.com.   Since its inception, the Barretts March Sale has been the leading producer of top quality race horses west of Kentucky.  Among the many Grade One winners are Awesome Gem, Brocco, Brother Derek, Dubai Escapade, Henny Hughes, Honour and Glory, Officer, River’s Prayer, Royal Anthem, Sharp Cat, Squirtle Squirt, Suni (JPN), Testa Matta (JPN), Unbridled’s... ...

From Victory Rose Thoroughbreds VACAVILLE, Calif. (Jan. 25, 2015) — First year stallion Gig Harbor, multiple stakes winning son of City Zip, standing at Victory Rose Thoroughbreds, had his first foal drop on Friday, Jan. 23, 2015 at Victory Rose. This first Gig Harbor colt is also a first foal for the McCann’s Mojave mare Highland Heather and was bred by stallion owner Daniel O’Neill. Gig Harbor won the Alcatraz Stakes at 3 and the Oakland Stakes at 4. He is out of the St. Jovite mare, Miss Blue Grass and a half brother to stakes horses My Lil Shamrock and Alsono.  Gig Harbor stands for $1,500 live foal. For additional information please contact Ellen Jackson at Victory Rose Thoroughbreds, (707) 678-6580, or visit www.victoryrose.com. ...

From CHRB ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 23, 2015) — The date for the next meeting of the California Horse Racing Board, originally scheduled for Thursday, February 19, has been changed to Wednesday, February 18. The meeting location remains at Santa Anita Park. An agenda for this meeting, including its starting time, will be posted on the CHRB website no later than February 8. ...

From Victory Rose Thoroughbreds VACAVILLE, Calif. (Jan. 21, 2015)- First-year stallion Indian Evening, a stakes winning son of Indian Charlie standing at Victory Rose Thoroughbreds, had his first foal drop on January 21 at Victory Rose. The Indian Evening filly is also the first foal out of the Pure Prize mare No Better Terms and was bred by Kevin and Kim Nish, KMN Racing. Indian Evening, who won the Swynford Stakes at 2, followed that up with a placing in the Three Chimneys Saratoga Special Stakes Grade III to Union Rags. He is out of the Unbridled Song mare Unenchantedevening and is from the precocious family of juvenile champion Favorite Trick.  Indian Evening stands for $3,000, live foal as the property of a partnership. For additional information please contact Ellen Jackson Victory Rose Thoroughbreds (707) 678-6580 or visit www.victoryrose.com. ...

From Special T Thoroughbreds TEMECULA, Calif. (Jan. 22, 2015) – The first foal of California stallion Ultimate Eagle was born Saturday, Jan. 17, at Special T Thoroughbreds. The foal is out of the Tropical Storm mare Storm Birdy. Jane Braugh is the breeder and owner of the bay filly, who is a half-sister to stakes-placed Stormy Adieu. ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Jan. 22, 2015) — The Jockey Club reminds owners and breeders that a valid attempt to name foals of 2013 must be made by Feb. 1, 2015, to avoid a $100 late fee. In December, The Jockey Club published a list of more than 46,000 names released from active use. This list is sortable by letter and available on registry.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. Names 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. “You... ...

By Paulick Report POMONA, Calif. (Jan. 19, 2015) — Fairplex Park in Pomona, Ca. will close for training and stabling Feb. 15 after ceasing racing operations last year. In turn, Galway Downs Training Center in Temecula, Ca. will open for auxiliary training sometime before Fairplex closing in order to accommodate some horses leaving Fairplex. A notice to horsemen Friday said that all horses must be off the grounds by Thursday, Feb. 19, and that no vans would be allowed on the backside the following day. At their latest meeting, the California Horse Racing Board approved a request from Galway Downs to become an authorized training center. The facility can accept up to 400 horses under the Vanning and Stabling Program. The Fairplex facility will host the Barretts 2-year-olds in training sale Feb. 23, with a preview show set for Feb. 20. The sale will be the last Barretts auction conducted in Pomona; the operation will then move south to Del Mar. ...

From NTRA ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 19, 2015) – The National Thoroughbred Racing Association will hold a legislative briefing on Cal Cup Saturday, Jan. 24, at Santa Anita, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Baldwin Conference Room. NTRA president and CEO Alex Waldrop and NTRA lobbyist Greg Means of The Alpine Group will provide the latest news from Capitol Hill on federal legislation that will impact horse racing and the breeding industry. The Baldwin Conference Room is located on the third level of the grandstand above Clocker’s Corner. RSVP to Barbara Fossum at bfossum@ntra.com. CTBA is a co-sponsor of the event. ...

From Magali Farms SANTA YNEZ, Calif. (Jan. 17, 2015) – California stallion Richard’s Kid’s first foal arrived Jan. 8 at Magali Farms. The filly is out of the Slewdledo mare Hope I Do. ...

From CHRB ARCADIA, Calif. (Jan. 16, 2015) – The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, January 15, at Santa Anita Park. Chairman Chuck Winner presided. 1st Vice Chair Bo Derek, 2nd Vice Chair Richard Rosenberg and Commissioners Madeline Auerbach, Steve Beneto, Jesse Choper and George Krikorian were in attendance. The audio of this entire Board meeting is available on the CHRB Website (www.chrb.ca.gov) under the Webcast link. In brief: The Board approved a request from Galway Downs Training Center in Temecula to become an authorized training center, subject to conditions that must be satisfied before the facility begins accepting up to 400 horses under the Vanning and Stabling Program. This facility will open for auxiliary training prior to the closure of stabling operations at Fairplex Park, planned for February. The California Marketing Committee reported that despite steep reductions in revenue resulting from declines in handle, which have forced reductions in some of its other marketing programs, the CMC will boost funding for “product enhancement,” most significantly in... ...

From Barretts POMONA, Calif. (Jan. 16, 2015) — The supplemental catalog of 37 horses, consisting of 22 horses of racing age, 10 broodmare/broodmare prospects, 2 yearlings and 3 two-year-olds, for the 2015 Barretts January Mixed Sale is now on-line and can be viewed within the entire sortable catalog available at: http://www.barretts.com/sales/Catalogs/catjan2015/catalogTABLE.asp                 These horses will be automatically added to the Jockey Club Ipad catalog ap. The January Sale will be held on Monday, January 26 in the Hinds Pavilion located on the grounds of Fairplex Park in Pomona, California beginning at 11:00 a.m. Printed supplemental catalogs will be available on the sales ground only, but the catalog pages are available in PDF format here. ...

From Connections of Mr Napper Tandy Another Beautiful Champion – gone too soon!  Mr Napper Tandy (GB), known for his “gutty” $300,000 San Francisco Mile Stakes win, suddenly and unexpectedly left us on Dec. 16, 2014.  ...

By Bloodhorse.com The Blood-Horse expanded its international reach Jan. 9 with the launch of a digital-only Spanish language edition called Blood-Horse en Español. The first translated edition is the Jan. 3, 2015, issue of the weekly magazine. Handling the distribution and translation of the Thoroughbred racing industry’s leading magazine is XY Jett, a subsidiary of G S Inversiones Hipicas, which is owned by Ivan Rodriguez Gelfenstein. “Blood-Horse en Español is something that it has been in my mind for a long time,” said Gelfenstein, an international businessman who divides his time between his native Venezuela and South Florida. “It has been an inquietude as a Latino and a horse racing lover to not have in our language the kind of information that The Blood-Horse offers. From today, millions of fans in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Spain will be able to have access to the most complete magazine in a digital format. In there they will be able to find information about breeding, sales, events, statistics, and many other activities... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Dec. 29, 2014) — The Oak Tree Racing Association announced today that it will match donations made to Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation in honor of Dr. Jack K. Robbins.   The pledge will cover donations up to a total of $100,000 that are made through December 31, 2015.   Dr. Robbins, a Thoroughbred owner and breeder and a pioneer in the field of veterinary medicine, died November 29, 2014, after battling pulmonary and respiratory disease. He was 93.   “Dr. Jack Robbins was a founder of the Oak Tree Racing Association and a standard-bearer for the association’s dedication to the betterment of racing and the good of the horse,” said John Barr, president of the Oak Tree Racing Association. “He was also a champion of equine research, and Oak Tree feels it is very appropriate that we honor his long association with the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation.”   “The Robbins family is thrilled that Oak Tree has extended this offer,” said Tom Robbins, executive vice... ...

From CHRB LOS ALAMITOS, Calif. (Dec. 20, 2014)  – The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, December 18, at Los Alamitos Race Course. Chairman Chuck Winner presided. 1st Vice Chair Bo Derek, 2nd Vice Chair Richard Rosenberg and Commissioners Madeline Auerbach, Steve Beneto, Jesse Choper and George Krikorian 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 Alamitos Quarter Horse Racing Association (LAQHRA) to conduct a quarter horse meet at Los Alamitos from December 26, 2014, through December 20, 2015. Acting on requests from the LAQHRA and the horsemen’s organization for the quarter horse meet, the Board suspended authorization for clenbuterol for quarter horses at Los Alamitos for 12 months, effective January 1, 2015. This means there can be no clenbuterol detected in post-race blood and urine samples taken from quarter horses at Los Alamitos. The Legislative, Legal and Regulations Committee, which met Wednesday,... ...

From Barretts POMONA, Calif. (Dec. 17, 2014) — The catalog for the Barretts 2015 January Mixed Sale is now on-line and will be mailed later this week.  This auction of 335 head will be held on Monday, January 26 in the Hinds Pavilion located on the grounds of Fairplex Park in Pomona, California beginning at 11:00 a.m.   You can view the catalog now at: http://www.barretts.com/sales/Catalogs/catjan2015/catalog.asp Among the sires of the yearlings and two-year-olds in the catalog are such stallions as Afleet Alex, Bullet Train, Benchmark, Calimonco, Coil, Colonel John, Desert Code, Forestry, Gone Astray, Heatseeker, Informed, Into Mischief, Line of David, Lucky Pulpit,  Pala Clem, Put It Back, Quality Road, Rocky Bar, Sierra Sunset, Slew’s Tiznow, Songandaprayer, Square Eddie, Stormin Fever, Tale of the Cat, Tapizar, The Pamplemousse, Thorn Song, Tiz Wonderful, Tribal Rule, Twirling Candy, Unusual Heat and War Chant. Among the covering stallions in the catalog are such stallions as Acclamation, Bullet Train, Champ Pegasus, Coil, Decarchy, Desert Code Dixie Chatter, Eddington, First Samurai, Good Journey, Informed, Kodiak... ...

By Bloodhorse.com WASHINGTON, D.C. (Dec. 15, 2014) — Several provisions that impact the horse industry, including maintaining a ban on horse slaughter, were included in the omnibus appropriations bill passed by Congress Dec. 13. The bill is a package that includes parts of the fiscal year 2015 appropriations bills and will fund most government agencies and programs until the end of the fiscal year Sept. 30, 2015. The legislation includes language that prohibits the United State Department of Agriculture from using any funds to provide inspectors at meat processing facilities that slaughter horses, continuing a block that has been in effect since 2005, except for a brief period in 2012-13. No horse slaughter facilities are operating in the U.S. and the bill would effectively prevent any such facility from opening until Sept. 30, 2015. The language was included in the omnibus bill because both the Senate and House Appropriations Committees adopted amendments that prohibited funding for inspectors at horse slaughter facilities when they debated and approved their respective versions of... ...

By Bloodhorse.com LEXINGTON, Ky. (Dec. 15, 2014) — Equibase has introduced a leaders’ list by foal crop that will enable users to determine which horse earned the most money, won the most races, or had the most stakes wins among its foal crop. The leaders’ lists by foal crop are available in the Stats Central section on equibase.com. “Comparing professional athletes by their draft year has always made for interesting water-cooler conversations and great debate on sports radio talk shows,” Equibase president and chief operating officer Hank Zeitlin. “Now, horse racing fans have the data to spark similar dialog about which horses were the best of their respective crops—not only by wins and earnings, but by age, on dirt vs. turf, etc.” The standings for horses by foal crop can be sorted by a variety of categories, including sex, age, surface and grade. The customized data set can then be sorted in ascending or descending order by column (1st, 2nd, 3rd, earnings, etc.). Equibase’s North American racing leaders’ lists include... ...

ARCADIA, Calif. (Dec. 11, 2014) — To see the 2015 Golden State Series schedule, click https://ctba.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/2015-goldenstateseries-nocropmarks.pdf ...

From CHRB                 CYPRESS, Calif. (Nov. 26, 2014) — The Legislative, Legal, and Regulations Committee of the California Horse Racing Board will conduct a public meeting on Wednesday, December 17, at Los Alamitos Race Course. The agenda, including the starting time for the committee meeting, will be posted on the CHRB website no later than December 8. The principal purpose of this meeting will be to review CHRB Rule 1699 as it pertains to the criteria for disqualifications in races. The current rule states in part that a “horse which interferes with another and thereby causes any other horse to lose stride, ground or position, when such other horse is not at fault and when such interference occurs in a part of the race where the horse interfered with loses the opportunity to place where it might, in the opinion of the Stewards, be reasonably expected to finish, may be disqualified and placed behind the horse so interfered with.” Stakeholders and the public are encouraged to submit written suggestions for... ...

From CHRB DEL MAR, Calif. (Nov. 21, 2014) – The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Wednesday, November 19, in the Del Mar Surfside Race Place. Chairman Chuck Winner presided. 1st Vice Chair Bo Derek, 2nd Vice Chair Richard Rosenberg and Commissioners Madeline Auerbach, Steve Beneto, Jesse Choper and George Krikorian 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 significant changes to the rule governing use of the whip in California horse racing by prohibiting a jockey from using the whip more than three times in succession without giving the horse a chance to respond. Also, the word “whip” is replaced by the term “riding crop.” Violations will not lead to disqualifications of horses in races. These changes received the endorsement of the Jockeys’ Guild, and Vice Chair Bo Derek thanked Guild President John Velazquez as well as jockey Gary Stevens for their support.  Procedurally, the regulatory amendment must be... ...

From NTRA LEXINGTON, Ky. (Nov. 7, 2014)  – The National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) announced this week that 95 percent of federal candidates receiving contributions from Horse PAC, the NTRA’s bipartisan Political Action Committee, won their races in Tuesday’s general election. Horse PAC-supported candidates won 36 of 37 House races and three of four Senate races. Horse PAC disburses directly to individual candidates and/or to their leadership PACs or other PACs that support candidates. During this election cycle, Horse PAC disbursed a total of $327,000 to candidates and PACs in 19 states. Kentucky-based candidates and PACs received $52,500 in Horse PAC funds over the two-year cycle. Other leading states included New York ($46,000), Texas ($32,500), California ($26,500) and Florida ($22,500). Horse PAC supports federal political candidates who serve on Congressional committees that oversee matters pertaining to livestock and agriculture issues, Internet gaming, taxation, immigration and the Interstate Horseracing Act; are established Congressional leaders; understand horse racing’s issues; have racetracks, breeding farms, training centers and ADWs in their states; are members... ...

From Vessels Stallion Farm BONSALL, Calif. (Oct. 29, 2014) – Square Eddie, sire of multiple stakes winner Sprouts, will stand for a $10,000 fee for the 2015 breeding season at Vessels Stallion Farm.                The 8-year-old son of Smart Strike was a Grade I winner at the age of 2 and runner-up in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile. He has two crops of racing age, with progeny earnings of more than $1.2 million and average earnings per starter of $38,157 for 34 runners.                From a first season foal crop of 32, Square Eddie sired five stakes horse: Sprouts, Electric Eddie, Smoove It, Eddies Curl and Eddie’s First.                For more information, contact Kevin Dickson at 760-414-3300 or email  kdvesselsfrm@aol.com. ...

From CTFMA DEL MAR, Calif. (Nov. 2, 2014) – The California Thoroughbred Farm Managers Association is setting up a fun filled Day at the Races at the brand new “Bing Crosby Meet” at Del Mar’s new winter race meet. We are reserving tables in the Penthouse level II Palio Restaurant. Tickets are $25 per person for admission and a racing program. No host lunch and drinks can be ordered off the menu. We will have door prizes & fun throughout the day! Join us on Sunday, Nov. 16th, seating at 11 a.m. first post for race one is noon. Please e-mail CTFMA@YAHOO.COM to reserve your group today.   ...

From CHRB DEL MAR, Calif. (Oct. 29, 2014) — The regular meeting of the California Horse Racing Board originally scheduled for Thursday, November 20, has been moved to Wednesday, November 19. The meeting location remains the same at the Surfside Race Place (simulcast facility) in Del Mar. The agenda for this meeting, including its starting time, will be available on the CHRB website at least 10 days before the meeting. ...

From Barretts DEL MAR, Calif. (Oct. 29, 2014) — Barretts Sales, which has conducted Thoroughbred auctions at Fairplex in Pomona since its inception in 1990, will shift its primary sales location to the Del Mar Fairgrounds starting in 2015. Kim Lloyd, Barretts’ general manager, said a deal has been agreed to with representatives of the 22nd District Agricultural Association – the state arm that operates Del Mar Fairgrounds – to move Barretts’ operations south approximately 100 miles following the group’s final sale at Fairplex in February, 2015. He noted that while the location of the business will change, the ownership will remain with the Los Angeles County Fair Association at Fairplex. Lloyd further indicated that the sales company will employ Del Mar’s covered, 100,000-square-foot Del Mar Arena, home to several major horse shows throughout the year, as their primary location for its sales. The facility offers seating for 3,500 with the floor capacity to hold an additional 5,000. Barretts also will conduct some of its sales in the paddock of... ...

ARCADIA, Calif. (Oct. 24, 2014) – California stallion Sapphire Cat was represented by his first winner when Lindante won the sixth race at Santa Anita, an open maiden special weight, Friday. Lindante is out of the Dixie Union mare Sav Blanc, was bred by owner John Antonelli and was trained by Jerry Fanning. He has one win in five starts with earnings of $54,260 and he ran the about 6 ½ furlongs on turf in 1:13.13, winning by three-quarters of a length at odds of $12.50-1. For Lindante’s pedigree, click http://www.pedigreequery.com/lindante. ...

By Bloodhorse.com PARIS, Ky. (Oct. 24, 2014) — Bel’s Starlet, a multiple stakes winner who finished third in the 1993 Gamely Handicap (gr. IT), died Oct. 23 at the age of 27 at Our Mims Retirement Haven near Paris, Ky., where she had lived since 2007. The roan mare died of pleuroneumonia and endocarditis, the farm reported. Bred by Mr. and Mrs. John C. Mabee and racing for Golden Eagle Farm and trainer Richard Mandella, Bel’s Starlet had 46 starts over six seasons while compiling a 13-14-6 mark with $863,802 in earnings. She was by Bel Bolide out of the Vigors mare Vigor’s Star. In addition to her Gamely placing, she was second in the Oak Leaf Stakes (gr. I) as a 2-year-old. When she retired from racing, Bel’s Starlet went back to the farm to take up her broodmare career. She produced six foals; Grey Owl, a 1998 colt by Kingmambo, earned $171,488 on the track. She also had foals by Forestry, Point Given  , and Danzig. The Mabees sold... ...

From NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (Oct. 23, 2014) — NTRA Featured Legislator – U.S. Representative Jim Costa (D-CA)   District: California’s 16th in the Central Valley – home to the Big Fresno Fair, part of the California Authority of Racing Fairs.   Experience: Rep. Costa was first elected to Congress in 2004 and is serving his 5th term in the House of Representatives. He is up for re-election in 2014.   Key Committee: Rep. Costa serves on the House Agriculture Committee.   Rep. Jim Costa recently visited Santa Anita Park and spent part of the day with trainer Carla Gaines and owner/breeder John Harris. ...

From Golden Eagle Farm RAMONA, Calif. (Oct. 22, 2014) — The Mabee’s Golden Eagle Farm boarding and breeding operation will close its doors after 40-plus years on October 31, 2014. Golden Eagle Farm General Manager Janine McCullough said, “The family has put a lot of thought into this decision since the passing of Larry Mabee in December 2012.  Larry’s son, John R. Mabee, is the one of three children with interest in the business.  John R., who was named after his grandfather, John C. Mabee, the founder of Golden Eagle Farm, will continue the racing stable.  John R. grew up spending many days going to the track with his grandfather and has a passion for the sport.  He genuinely loves the horses and is excited about continuing the famous Golden Eagle silks.  We have several exciting horses in training right now and look forward to 2015.  I will be staying on as John’s racing manager and continue to manage the stallion Stormin Fever, who moves to Rancho Temescal for the... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Oct. 22, 2014) – California showed an increase in mares bred and stallions standing in 2014, according to The Jockey Club. There were 2,472 mares bred in California this year, a six percent increase from last year and the first increase since 2002. There were 143 stallions standing in the state, a 5.1 percent increase from last year and the first increase since 2004. California was the only state in the top seven to show an increase in stallions standing.     ...

From CHRB ARCADIA, Calif. (Oct. 22, 2014) — The California Horse Racing Board will conduct its regular meeting Thursday, October 23, beginning at 9:30 a.m. in the Baldwin Terrace Room at Santa Anita Park. Also, the Medication and Track Safety Committee will meet in the same location on Wednesday, October 22, beginning at 2 p.m. The public is encouraged to attend these meetings. An audio-only webcast of Thursday’s Board meeting can be heard through a link on the CHRB website. The agendas and supporting packages of materials for these meeting also are available on the website. ...

By DRF.com POMONA, Calif. (Oct. 17, 2014) — Barretts will not conduct a horses of racing age sale at Del Mar on Nov. 8 as previously scheduled, according to the sale company’s general manager, Kim Lloyd. Lloyd said on Thursday that Barretts has plans to conduct an autumn horses of racing age sale in October 2015 in conjunction with an open yearling sale. Barretts is planning six sales at two venues in 2015 – a mixed sale on Jan. 26, and the select sale of 2-year-olds in-training on Feb. 23 at its facility in Pomona, Calif. Those will be the final two events at that facility on the Los Angeles County Fairgrounds, which no longer conducts live race meetings each September. For the remainder of 2015, sales will be conducted at Del Mar – a sale of 2-year-olds in-training on May 27, the Paddock Sale of horses of racing age on July 19, a select yearling sale on Aug. 12, and a combined yearling and horses of racing age in... ...

From NTRA Experience: Senator Feinstein is serving her fifth term. She is up for re-election in 2018. Key Committees: Senator Feinstein is a member of the Appropriations Committee and the Judiciary Committee.  The Appropriations Committee is the largest committee in the U.S. Senate and writes legislation that allocates federal funds to government agencies and departments on an annual basis. The Judiciary Committee provides oversight of the Department of Justice (DOJ). Impact on horse racing and breeding industry: Senator Feinstein has worked extensively with the agricultural industry in California and has developed an understanding of the challenges and issues faced by farmers. Her work on the 2014 farm bill helped authorize disaster relief programs for livestock indemnity that are retroactive to October 1, 2011 for losses from ongoing drought or fire. Senator Feinstein also helped introduce the Restoration of America’s Wire Act to clarify and reverse a DOJ legal opinion from 2011 that allowed states to authorize expanded online gambling, a change from the DOJ’s 50-year-old position on permissible activity through... ...

By DRF.com COALINGA, Calif. (Oct. 10, 2014) — Lucky Pulpit, sire of dual classic winner California Chrome, will see his advertised stud fee quadruple to $10,000 for the 2015 breeding season at Harris Farms in Coalinga, Calif. The 13-year-old son of Pulpit began the 2014 season at an advertised fee of $2,500. His fee was most recently listed as private as California Chrome ripped through the San Felipe Stakes, Santa Anita Derby, Kentucky Derby, and Preakness Stakes before finishing fourth in the Belmont Stakes. Fueled by his most famous son’s exploits, Lucky Pulpit currently sits at second on the California general sire list by a margin of less than $100,000, despite having about one-third as many runners as the leader, the late Tribal Rule. Perennial leading California sire Unusual Heat leads the Harris Farms roster with a fee of $20,000 for 2015, unchanged from 2014. The roster also includes Heatseeker and Smiling Tiger at $5,000; Desert Code at $2,000; and Tizbud and Lucky J.H. at $1,500. ...

FRESNO, Calif. (Oct. 9, 2014) – California stallion Mesa Thunder was represented by his first winner Thursday when Aloha Ke Akua won the third race at Fresno. Aloha Ke Akua is out of the Flying Paster mare Brilliant Sunlight and was bred by owners Fran and Stan Hodge and trained by Victor Trujillo. She ran the 5 ½ furlongs in 1:06.65 and won by 5 ½ lengths at odds of 2-1 in the $12,500 maiden claimer. Aloha Ke Akua, a 2-year-old filly, is the first starter for Mesa Thunder, a winning son of Sky Mesa. He stands at Paradise Road Ranch. ...

By Bloodhorse.com RANCHO SANTA FE, Calif. (Oct. 8, 2014) — Bill Gates has purchased Rancho Paseana from weight-loss guru and horse owner Jenny Craig for $18 million, according to a published report. The deal on the 228-acre Thoroughbred farm about 20 minutes north of San Diego closed in mid-September, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing public records. The property, used for training and as a lay-up facility, includes a six-furlong training track, a guesthouse and office, an olive orchard, five barns, and a veterinarian’s suite. The newspaper quoted a spokesman for Gates as saying the Microsoft co-founder wanted the property because the Gates family “has enjoyed visiting the San Diego area with friends and family for many years.” The property has been on the market for several years, initially priced at about $30 million. It had recently been listed for nearly $25 million, but was later withdrawn. Rancho Paseana was closed in 2013 and there are currently no horses there, a spokesman said. Jason Berry of Barry Estates, which represented... ...

By Bloodhorse.com GEORGETOWN, KY. (Oct. 6, 2014) — Amazombie has a foothold in two states—California and Kentucky. He was bred in California and did most of his racing there. But his biggest victory came in Kentucky, when he won the 2011 Sentient Jet Breeders’ Cup Sprint (gr. I) at Churchill Downs. Thus, it is only fitting that Amazombie gets a taste of retirement in both states. When co-owner and trainer Bill Spawr retired him earlier this year, Amazombie returned to Judd Morse, who gave him his first lessons, at his ranch in San Jacinto, Calif. Now that Morse is relocating to Oklahoma to be near grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Amazombie is heading for Old Friends in Kentucky. “He’s doing well and acting like a kid,” said Morse. “He’s in about an acre to an acre and-a-half field by himself that’s loaded with grass. He’s such a nice horse. If I were 20 years younger, I’d ride him.” Amazombie was the pet of the Spawr barn for five years, beloved well before... ...

From CHRB CYPRESS, Calif. (Sept. 25, 2014) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Wednesday, September 24, 2014, at Los Alamitos Race Course. Chairman Chuck Winner presided.  2nd Vice Chair Richard Rosenberg and Commissioners Madeline Auerbach, Steve Beneto, Jesse Choper and George Krikorian 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 Del Mar Thoroughbred Club’s license application for a new meet that will run from November 5 through November 30 – the first fall meet at Del Mar since 1967. This meet, which uses dates previously run at Hollywood Park, will closely resemble the Santa Anita fall meet’s racing schedule, overnight purses, and wagering menu. Executive Director Rick Baedeker reported that changes to Rule 1844 will go into effect October 1, including a greater restriction on the use of corticosteroids in racing horses. The Board expressed its support for the proposed EquiLottery, which would allow Lottery players to... ...

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Sept. 24, 2014) — General admission tickets to the 31st Breeders’ Cup World Championships Oct. 31-Nov. 1 at Santa Anita Park are now available for purchase online at http://www.breederscup.com/tickets. General admission tickets sold online offer lower price points than those at the gate on race days. Over the course of two days, 13 grade I races will be run with purses and awards totaling more than $26 million. The event will culminate with the $5 million Breeders’ Cup Classic (gr. I), airing live in primetime on NBC on Saturday, November 1. In addition to the races, the Breeders’ Cup has curated new entertainment and experiential programming for the track’s infield and general admission ticket areas to further enhance the fan experience. “We couldn’t be more excited about the new programming we’ve implemented and the new activities for our fans,” said Breeders’ Cup president and CEO Craig Fravel. “In addition to the 13 championship races, we’re utilizing the infield to provide unique experiences and entertainment options that... ...

From Barretts POMONA, Calif. (Sept. 22, 2014) — The first 2-year-old in training sale of 2015 will be conducted by Barretts on Monday, February 23 at Fairplex in Pomona with the training preview scheduled for Friday, February 20. Nominations close Friday, October 24. General Manager Kim Lloyd views the earlier sale date as a positive. “We’ll kick off the 2-year-old sales season in the West again this year. Being first up the past three years we’ve had huge gains and the highest select sale average increase of 2014.” The January 26 Mixed Sale and 2-year-old Select Sale will be the final Barretts auctions conducted at the Fairplex facility, and according to Lloyd, at the February 23 finale “we’ll be celebrating our success and ongoing commitment to provide quality service to buyers and consignors.” The balance of the Barretts 2015 Sales Calendar will be conducted at Del Mar. The May Sale of 2-year-olds in Training will be later in the month on Wednesday, the 27th to insure that the new “dirt”... ...

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Sept. 19, 2014) — Santa Anita Park and the Thoroughbred Owners of California (TOC) announced Sept. 19 that two additional race dates have been added to the track’s upcoming autumn meet, which opens Sept. 26. The additional dates are Thursday, Oct. 16 and Wednesday, Oct. 29, for the 25-day meet, which runs through Nov. 2. The track and TOC cited a healthy equine inventory and increasing demand for the added dates. The meet is highlighted by the two-day Breeders’ Cup World Championships Oct. 31-Nov. 1. “There is a great deal of anticipation for our upcoming meet and we feel these two additional dates will be well received by everyone,” said Santa Anita president Tom Ludt. “Our racing calendar here in Southern California is still in a transitional stage and we’re confident this will help to better fulfill  everyone’s needs.” The first additional date, Oct. 16, will follow a special Columbus Day of racing on Monday, Oct. 13. The second date, Oct. 29, will ensure that Santa... ...

From DMTC DEL MAR, Calif. (Sept. 19, 2014) — “Ship and Win,” Del Mar’s simple, yet very effective, program to attract out-of-state horses to run at the shore oval will be in place for the track’s first November race meet which kicks off on Friday, November 7. The policy – initiated by Del Mar Thoroughbred Club in partnership with Thoroughbred Owners of California in 2011 – has drawn nearly 600 out-of-state runners to Del Mar over the past four summers, most of whom remained on the California circuit. Owners shipping in, or importing, runners from other circuits are rewarded in two ways: First, they receive an automatic check for $1,000 when their horse makes its first start at Del Mar; next, they receive a purse bonus payment should that horse win that initial start. That bonus sum has varied from 20% to 33 1/3%, but will be set at 30% for the track’s fall stand. Del Mar’s 15-day fall meet will be conducted primarily on a Thursday-through-Sunday basis from November... ...

From Northern California Fair Racing ASPARAGUS STAKES Saturday, September 27 3 Year Olds, 6 Furlongs $50,000 (plus up to $15,000 for Cal-Breds) Closes Saturday, Sept. 20 HARRIS FARMS STAKES Sunday, October 5 3 Year Olds & Up (Cal-Breds), 6 Furlongs Golden State Series  $100,000 Guaranteed Closes Saturday, Sept.27 HARVEST STAKES Saturday, October 11 Fillies & Mares, 3 Year Olds & Up, 6 Furlongs   $50,000 (plus up to $15,000 for Cal-Breds) Closes Saturday, Oct. 4 BULL DOG HANDICAP Sunday, October 12 3 Year Olds & Up, 9 Furlongs   $75,000 Guaranteed Closes Saturday, Oct. 4 Click here for nomination blanks. If you have questions, please contact Racing Secretary Tom Doutrich at (415) 271-4613. ...

From  Harris Farms COALINGA, Calif. (Sept. 10, 2014) — Smiling Tiger, a three time Grade 1 winner of $1,480,704 will stand the 2015 breeding season at John Harris’ Harris Farms near Coalinga.  Owned by Phil Lebherz and Alan Klein, Smiling Tiger previously stood at his owner’s Premier Thoroughbreds, LLC near Oakdale. Co-owner Phil Lebherz commented, “We are excited to announce that Harris Farms has agreed to stand Smiling Tiger. Harris Farms produced California Chrome last year’s Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner and has world class facilities located centrally in California. Smiling Tiger has over 80 mares in foal from his first year at stud and we expect more for 2015,” Smiling Tiger, (Hold That Tiger x Shandra Smiles, by Cahill Road) won the Bing Crosby S. G1, Triple Bend G1 and Ancient Title S. G1 among his seven graded stakes victories.  A stakes winner from ages two through five, Smiling Tiger won nine of twenty-three starts, eight of them stakes. Farm owner John Harris stated, “He is a big good... ...

From Barretts DEL MAR, Calif. (Sept. 9, 2014) — In cooperation with the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, Barretts will conduct its inaugural Fall Paddock Sale of Horses of Racing Age on November 8, the first Saturday of the Bing Crosby Season. The Fall Paddock Sale continues the “One Stop Shopping” concept of the earlier July “Race Ready” Sales at Del Mar conducted by Barretts. These auctions conceived to encourage new racehorse ownership and increase the racehorse horse inventory in California, have produced excellent results for both buyers and consignors. “The Paddock Sales at Del Mar have evolved to must attend events” opines Barretts General Manager Kim Lloyd “and new owners are good for everyone in our game!” As the quality of horses offered has improved since the first Paddock Sale in 2012, so have the prices that buyers have been willing to pay. The 2014 sale average of $113,000 rose 52.8% from 2013 and a new sales record was set when Heir Kitty, a Grade I winner of $421,272 sold... ...

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (Sept. 8, 2014) — Santa Anita Park, which will host the Breeders’ Cup World Championships for an unprecedented third consecutive year Oct. 31-Nov. 1, is seeking volunteers from the local community to help accommodate the needs of the thousands of anticipated visitors. Volunteers are needed to assist in a variety of patron services:  Greeting racing fans as they enter the track’s grounds, escorting horse owners from their seats to and from the paddock, staffing various areas to answer questions, provide directions, coordinate traffic arrangements, and staff the Breeders’ Cup press center. While an interest in horse racing and familiarity with Santa Anita Park are not required, that would be helpful. Volunteers should be prepared to attend an orientation one week before Breeders’ Cup, and on the day of their volunteer sessions, to be on their feet for a six-hour period. Breeders’ Cup volunteers will have an opportunity to be involved with a world-class sports event that will be televised nationally on NBC Sports Group.  Those interested... ...

By Bloodhorse.com ALBANY, Calif. (Sept. 8, 2014) – California sire Elusive Warning was represented by his first winner Aug. 31 at Golden Gate Fields when favored Swiss Cocoa won the sixth race in front-running fashion. The winner, a 2-year-old filly owned by Diaz Racing Stable and Andreas Psarras, is trained Antonio Diaz and was ridden by Juan Sanchez. Making her third lifetime start, Swiss Cocoa was the 9-5 choice in the $12,500 maiden claiming race. Swiss Cocoa outpaced her seven rivals while opening a three-length lead in the stretch. She won by one length under steady urging while completing the five furlongs on Golden Gate’s Tapeta racing surface in :59.04. Sheila McLeod bred Swiss Cocoa in California out of the stakes-placed winner Swiss Please, by Swiss Yodeler. The bay filly sold for $3,500 to Psarras out of the Madera Thoroughbreds consignment at the Barretts Equine Limited October 2013 yearling sale. Elusive Warning, a 10-year-old group III-winning son of Elusive Quality  —Valid Warning, by Valid Appeal, stood for $2,500 in 2014 at... ...

From Santa Anita Publicity      ARCADIA, Calif. (Sept. 8, 2014)—The Arcadia Historical Society, City of Arcadia and Santa Anita Park have announced an official Grand Opening of California racing’s first-ever “Thoroughbred Racing Walk of Champions” on Saturday, Sept. 27, beginning at 5 p.m. on First Ave. between Wheeler St. and Huntington Drive. In a manner similar to that of the world famous “Hollywood Walk of Fame,” bronze plaques of a number of legendary jockeys, trainers, owners and horses will adorn city sidewalks for fans and citizens to enjoy for generations to come.  Along with live appearances from legendary retired Hall of Fame jockeys Eddie Delahoussaye and Laffit Pincay, Jr., the public will be treated to live music, free popcorn, bottled water and a vintage car display. “We are thrilled to be able to officially unveil these beautiful bronze tributes to some of the greatest people and horses in racing history,” said Sandy Snider, on behalf of the Arcadia Historical Society.  “In recognition of the fact that racing has played such... ...

From CHRB CYPRESS, Calif. (Sept. 4, 2014) — The monthly meeting of the California Horse Racing Board originally scheduled September 18 has been rescheduled for Wednesday, September 24, in the Finish Line Room at Los Alamitos Race Course. The public is encouraged to attend. An audio-only webcast of the meeting can be heard through a link on the CHRB website (webcast). The agenda for this meeting will be posted on the CHRB website at least 10 days beforehand and the supporting package of materials will be available on the website no later than September 19. ...

By DRF.com AUBURN, Wash. (Aug. 27, 2014) — The Washington Thoroughbred Breeders and Owners Association summer yearling and mixed sale concluded on Tuesday with increased sales figures and a lower buyback rate in its flagship yearling portion. According to figures released by WTBOA, the one-day sale moved 81 horses during the yearling portion for revenues of $1,297,000, marking a 7 percent improvement compared with the 2013 edition, when 78 horses brought $1,212,600. The average sale price rose 3 percent, from $15,546 to $16,012, while the median spiked 11 percent, rising from $9,500 to $10,500. The yearling buyback rate of 18 percent bettered year’s rate, when 23 percent of the yearlings offered did not meet their reserves. Yearlings by the late California sire Tribal Rule brought the three highest prices on Tuesday. The sale-topper was a Tribal Rule filly out of the stakes-placed Slewdledo mare Bella Campana, purchased by trainer Mark Glatt for $57,000. The filly, bred in Washington by Mary Lou and Terry Griffin and consigned by their Griffin Place... ...

By Courier-Journal.com CYPRESS, Calif. (Aug. 27, 2014) — The $500,000 Los Alamitos Futurity — the Grade I race formerly known as the Hollywood Futurity and CashCall Futurity until Hollywood Park closed last year — has been added to the points races for the 2015 Kentucky Derby. The series’ 35 races that offer qualifying points toward running in the May 2 Derby were released Wednesday by Churchill Downs, along with the companion series for the May 1 Kentucky Oaks, which this year will include the Grade I Starlet at Los Alamitos. This is the third consecutive year that Churchill will use a sliding scale of points awarded to the top four finishers in select races to determine preference for its 20-horse Derby field. At least 20 horses have entered the 1 ¼-mile classic for 3-year-olds every year since 2004, and 14 of the last 16 years. Points for first place range from 10 to 100, those coming in the major 1 1/8-mile preps three to five weeks before the Derby. Churchill... ...

From CHRB DEL MAR, Calif. (Aug. 22, 2014) — The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, August 21, in the Del Mar Surfside Race Place. Chairman Chuck Winner presided. 1st Vice Chair Bo Derek, 2nd Vice Chair Richard Rosenberg and Commissioners Madeline Auerbach, Steve Beneto, Jesse Choper and George Krikorian 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 and Dr. Rick Arthur, equine medical director for the Board, reported progress in discussions for implementing third-party Lasix administration in California horse racing. The report was the first of many planned discussions on the overall issue of race-day medications. ·        Baedeker also reported on the steps being taken by safety stewards and other CHRB officials to analyze the racing surfaces at Del Mar and review other procedures in a continuing effort to provide for the safest possible racing conditions. ·        Chairman Winner asked the Board’s Pari-Mutuel Operations, ADW... ...

By DRF.com SAN MATEO, Calif. (Aug. 24, 2014) — Funeral services will take place Tuesday at 11 a.m. at St. Timothy’s Catholic Church in San Mateo, Calif., for Theresa Patterson, 78. Patterson was preceded in death by her husband, trainer Dennis Patterson. She was involved in racing herself as a breeder and owner. She is survived by sons Dennis and Bill, both of whom are involved in racing. ...

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Aug. 16, 2014) — Alan Landsburg, a television writer, producer and director who in later years focused on improving horse racing as a racing commissioner and industry leader, died Thursday at the age of 81. Mr. Landsburg graduated from New York University with a degree in communications and then honed his skills in the U.S. Army as a writer, director, and producer of special events for the American Forces Network in Europe. Following his discharge in 1956, this broadcasting experience helped him become one of the youngest directors ever when he joined the NBC radio affiliate in New York at the age of 21. From there he moved to Los Angeles in 1961 to join the new Wolper Productions, which was his opening into television. An Emmy Award winner and Oscar nominee, he was responsible for more than 2,000 hours of network programming, including the “Biography” series, “National Geographic” specials, “The Undersea World of Jacques Cousteau,” and “That’s Incredible.” He frequently addressed important social issues in... ...

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Aug. 12, 2014) – George Nicholaw, a former California racing commissioner who introduced millions of Southern Californians to horse racing by airing stretch calls on the popular news radio station that he managed for 35 years, died early Sunday due to complications from a urinary infection. He was 86. Mr. Nicholaw was familiar to many who might not have recognized him by sight but knew the entreating, gentle cadence of his voice from hearing his editorial comments on the KNX-AM (1070) news radio station where he served as vice president and general manager from 1967 until 2003. Long known for his civic involvement, Mr. Nicholaw was appointed to the California Horse Racing Board by Governor Pete Wilson on March 26, 1992. He was reappointed by Governor Wilson in 1996 to a term that expired January 1, 2000. He served as Board vice-chairman from 1998 until he became chairman in 1999. During his eight years as a racing commissioner, Mr. Nicholaw repeatedly demonstrated his support for the... ...

By Bloodhorse.com LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 15, 2014) — The National Thoroughbred Racing Association Aug. 8 announced four new appointees to the organization’s board of directors unanimously elected at the morning’s quarterly board meeting in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. The four new appointees to the board are: Judy Wagner, the 2001 National Handicapping Championship winner and 13-time NHC qualifier; Michael Rogers, president of the racing division of The Stronach Group; Scott Wells, president of the Thoroughbred Racing Associations and president and general manager of Remington Park and Lone Star Park for Global Gaming Solutions; and Joe Morris, representing the Thoroughbred Owners of California. “The addition of these new board members will undoubtedly strengthen the NTRA,” said organization president Alex Waldrop. “These appointments will provide direct representation to major constituencies that not only support NTRA programs but which also have a vested interest in a strong and vibrant Thoroughbred industry. In particular, Judy Wagner’s appointment recognizes the important role horseplayers have in our industry, not just as fans or spectators like many other... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 9, 2014) — The Jockey Club is projecting a 2015 North American registered Thoroughbred foal crop of 22,000, it was announced today by Matt Iuliano, the organization’s executive vice president and executive director. The projections for the 2013 and 2014 foal crops were 23,000 and 22,000, respectively. “The projection for the 2015 foal crop is based on reports of mares bred received to date, and we estimate that approximately 80% of those reports have been received,” Iuliano said. 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. The foal crop projection, traditionally announced in mid-August, is computed by using Reports of Mares Bred (RMBs) received to date for the 2014 breeding season. RMBs are to be filed by August 1 of each breeding season. Stallion owners who have not returned their RMBs for the 2014 breeding season are encouraged to do so as soon as possible. Interactive RegistrationTM, which enables registered... ...

From TOBA LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 8, 2014) — Earlier this week at the TOBA board of trustees meeting, held in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., Dr. Dionne Benson gave a status report on the implementation of the RMTC uniform medication program.  Based on Dr. Benson’s report, TOBA has released the following statement: To see that the momentum of this reform program continues, TOBA and its board of trustees pledge to commit resources in order to ensure all Thoroughbred racing jurisdictions implement the entire RMTC uniform medication program. TOBA is the only organization made up solely of members who are the foundation of our sport.  Without owners and breeders there would not be any athletes to perform at our racetracks.  TOBA has been encouraged by the overall support seen by many industry organizations for the RMTC uniform medication program and will work diligently with the RCI, the American Graded Stakes Committee, the Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association, the National HBPA, The Jockey Club, racetracks, and local horsemen’s groups to achieve full implementation in the near... ...

By DRF.com WASHINGTON, D.C. (Aug. 6, 2014) — The U.S. Treasury Department has told Congress that it will review a proposed reinterpretation of a tax rule that would be favorable to horseplayers, the National Thoroughbred Racing Association, which conducts federal lobbying efforts on behalf of the racing industry, said Wednesday. The NTRA said the Treasury Department acknowledged in a response to congressional representatives that it “will take the recommendations under consideration.” The representatives, including the highest-ranking members of the House Ways and Means Committee, signed on to a letter that asked Treasury to consider allowing horseplayers to use the total cost of a bet, rather than the denomination of the wager, in the calculation to determine tax liability for large winning payoffs, a reinterpretation that could save horseplayers millions of dollars annually in taxes. According to racing officials, the Treasury Department had the option of refusing to consider the recommendation. Although the department is not guaranteed to issue an opinion favorable to the racing industry, one official characterized the Treasury... ...

From The Jockey Club LEXINGTON, Ky. (July 23, 2014) — The Jockey Club Information Systems Inc. (TJCIS) today unveiled the Pedigree Binder, which enables users to easily manage, store, and view Equineline pedigrees online. The new tool is available for no additional charge whenever someone purchases an Equineline pedigree, race record, or mare produce record in PDF format. The digital Pedigree Binder offers a host of features, including the ability to organize Equineline pedigrees and race and produce records into a personal online binder, the capacity to view binders as an electronic flipbook or PDF, and the potential to share binders with others through email and social media outlets such as Facebook and Twitter. Pedigree binders may also be personalized by uploading PDF cover pages for each binder as well as for each horse within a binder and can include logos, photos, and video links. “Many breeding farms and Thoroughbred owners currently maintain hardcopy binders or books with pedigrees for reference,” said Carl Hamilton, chairman and president of TJCIS. “This... ...

From CHRB DEL MAR, Calif. (July 21, 2014) – The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Friday, July 18, in the Del Mar Surfside Race Place. Chairman Chuck Winner presided. 1st Vice Chair Bo Derek, 2nd Vice Chair Richard Rosenberg and Commissioners Madeline Auerbach, Steve Beneto, Jesse Choper and George Krikorian 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 County Fair race meet at Los Alamitos Race Course commencing September 5 through September 23. This is the first year that the meet will be conducted outside of Pomona and away from the Los Angeles County Fair itself. Paid admissions to either of the events – the fair in Pomona or the races at Los Alamitos – will provide free access to the other. Fair patrons will be able to wager on the races at Los Alamitos at various wagering locations inside the fairgrounds.... ...

By DRF.com DEL MAR, Calif. (July 18, 2014)  – Santa Anita may add two days of racing to its autumn meeting, and Los Alamitos may move the date of the richest race of its county fair meeting in September, after discussions at Friday’s California Horse Racing Board meeting. The racing board approved licenses for three meetings – at Los Alamitos from Sept. 5-21, the San Joaquin County Fair at Stockton form Sept. 19-28, and at Santa Anita from Sept. 26 to Nov. 2. Commissioner Madeline Auerbach asked Santa Anita officials to consider adding Thursday, Sept. 25 and Wednesday, Oct. 29. Auerbach argued that turf racing on Sept. 25 would be beneficial for a circuit that will race only on dirt during the Los Angeles County fair meeting at Los Alamitos from Sept. 5-21 following the closure of Del Mar on Sept. 3. Auerbach said that by racing on Oct. 29 Santa Anita could take advantage of additional interest from fans and horsemen on a week when the track hosts the... ...

From NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 11, 2014) — Today the House of Representatives passed H.R. 4718, a bill that amends the Internal Revenue Code to make permanent 50% bonus depreciation for qualified property purchased and placed in service after December 31, 2013.  The House also recently voted to permanently increase the expense allowance to $500,000 (with a $2 million investment threshold), up from the current level of $25,000 ($200,000 threshold). Bonus depreciation expired and the expense allowance dropped at the end of 2013. Bonus depreciation applies only to new business property such as a yearling.  The expense allowance applies to both new and used property.  Examples of used property include broodmares and horses of racing age. The House also is considering the expired three-year depreciation schedule for racehorses but this provision is pending. The Senate will address tax extender legislation for numerous business tax provisions, including those above, that expired or reverted to lower levels at the end of 2013. The NTRA Legislative Team anticipates that these expiring tax provisions... ...

By Bloodhorse.com CYPRESS, Calif. (July 11, 2014) — Southern California’s Los Alamitos Race Course, now running its first Thoroughbred meet in 23 years, has earned accreditation from the National Thoroughbred Racing Association Safety and Integrity Alliance, it was announced July 11. The current eight-day meet that ends July 13 is one of three stands for Thoroughbred racing at the Orange County track this year, along with the Los Angeles County Fair Sept. 4-23 and a winter meet Dec. 4-21. By assuming some of the racing dates abandoned by Hollywood Park and Fairplex, the Los Alamitos Racing Association has helped to maintain a year-round circuit for Thoroughbreds in Southern California. In anticipation of its re-entry to the Thoroughbred game, Los Alamitos invested about $5 million in improvements, including an expansion of the main track to one mile. High-definition monitors line the facility and 200 additional stalls are forthcoming. “Los Alamitos has made safety a priority for all horses competing here—Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse,” said Brad McKinzie, vice president and general manager... ...

From DMTC DEL MAR, Calif. (July 9, 2014) — Del Mar Thoroughbred Club will conduct its 75th summer racing season starting Thursday, July 17 led by a veteran team of racing officials, and including a well-regarded newcomer. At the helm, once again, will be DMTC’s executive vice president, racing and industry relations, Tom Robbins, on board for his 34th summer. But whereas Robbins filled the role of the track’s racing secretary in the past (he’d done so for 25 years), this time around he’ll cede that job to David Jerkens.  He joined the Del Mar team this spring after an extended stint in the racing department and as racing secretary at Golden Gate Fields in the Bay Area. Jerkens, who grew up in a racing family, also had worked in the racing department of the New York Racing Association and brings a solid background to his new role. Chief aides in the racing department will be Zachary Soto, returning for his 24th summer at the shore, and Tora Yamaguchi, serving... ...

From DMTC          DEL MAR, Calif. (July 7, 2014) — For the 15th summer in a row, one of Del Mar’s most popular attractions – “Daybreak at Del Mar” – is back on the agenda for a unique mix of fine breakfast fare and those majestic Thoroughbreds stretching their legs on sun-splashed mornings alongside the Pacific Ocean.          The Saturday and Sunday gatherings, presented at the Clubhouse Terrace Restaurant just past the finish line, run from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. throughout the meet, which opens this year on Thursday, July 17.          Regulars to the “Daybreak” mornings know what a delight it is to start their day in the presence of gallopers and workers preparing for upcoming races at the seaside oval. First-timers at the sessions are often in awe of the sights and sounds of the mornings, watching a sun-up ritual that is hundreds of years old unfold as they dine trackside.          Breakfast goers will be able to choose... ...

DEL MAR, Calif. (July 3, 2014) — The Laffit Pincay, Jr. Award, established at Hollywood Park in 2004 and carried forward by the Hall of Fame rider over the next 10 years, will continue at Del Mar this summer when it is presented by Pincay on Sunday, July 27. The prestigious award honors someone or some organization that has served racing with integrity, dedication, determination and distinction. Previously, the recipient was selected by Pincay in conjunction with officials at the now-closed Hollywood Park. Starting this year, the former rider and officials of the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club will choose a worthy winner. “When Hollywood closed, I wasn’t sure what was going to happen with my award,” said the 67-year-old Panamanian who finished his illustrious riding career with 9,530 winners. “But then the people at Del Mar contacted me and said they’d love to have me keep it alive and bring it to their track. The award is meant as an honor for special people in our sport, so, naturally, I... ...

From TOC Dr. Edward Allred has been selected by the Thoroughbred Owners of California (TOC) to receive the 2013 Ed Friendly Industry Service Award. The award is presented annually to recognize outstanding contributions and service in the California Thoroughbred racing industry. Allred owns Los Alamitos Race Course, which will host its inaugural Thoroughbred race meet July 3-13.  Los Alamitos, the home of dual classic winner California Chrome, also will race the L.A. County Fair dates in September and a three-week Thoroughbred meet in December. Allred’s innovative insurance plan for trainers, FinishLine Self-Insurance Group, has been instrumental in reducing the burden of rising workers’ compensation rates, keeping the cost of training horses in California affordable for both Quarter Horse and Thoroughbred trainers and owners. When California Thoroughbred racing found itself in a tight spot for stabling after the close of Hollywood Park, Allred stepped up to provide 700 Thoroughbred stalls to be used for year-round training as well as an expanded one-mile racetrack at Los Alamitos. “We are very pleased to... ...

From CHRB SACRAMENTO, Calif. (June 25, 2014) – The California Horse Racing Board (CHRB/Board) adopted regulations June 19 to limit the use of corticosteroids in racing horses and to impose further restrictions on shockwave therapy. The move is part of an aggressive effort by the Board to protect horses and riders. The changes are expected to go into effect in October following final regulatory review. “The people who play by the rules should have the best shot, not the people who don’t play by the rules,” said Board Chairman Chuck Winner. “This is the way it is going to be from now on, and we’re going to work very hard to make sure the integrity of the sport is protected.” The Board voted to set limits on certain medications consistent with the national uniform medication program. The most significant of these limits is for corticosteroids, potent anti-inflammatory medications. When used improperly, corticosteroids could mask serious injury from the examining veterinarians and allow injured horses to compete. The restrictions will fundamentally... ...

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (June 22, 2014) — The Thoroughbred Owners of California membership has elected Jim Cahill to its board of directors and re-elected five incumbents: Mark Dedomenico, Mike Harrington, Terry Lovingier, Jack Owens, and Bill Strauss. Dedomenico, Harrington, Lovingier, Owens, and Strauss were elected to three-year terms, Cahill to a one-year term. The new board officially takes office July 1 and will be seated at TOC’s first board meeting of the new fiscal year July 11 at Los Alamitos Race Course. Cahill, a graduate of San Diego State University with a finance degree, was executive vice president of Costco before leaving that position to handle the financial affairs of the company’s founder, Sol Price. He became an owner eight years ago with the claim of 8-year-old gelding Senator Matty, campaigned Washington Cup winner He’s Not Bluffing, and currently has nine horses in training. Dedomenico, a renowned cardiovascular surgeon and researcher, owns and oversees Pegasus Thoroughbred Training and Rehabilitation center in Redmond, Wash., where he is involved in researching... ...

From CHRB LOS ALAMITOS, Calif. (June 20, 2014) – The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, June 19, 2014, at Los Alamitos Race Course. Chairman Chuck Winner presided.  2nd Vice Chair Richard Rosenberg and Commissioners Madeline Auerbach, Steve Beneto, and Jesse Choper 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 voted unanimously to allow the Los Angeles County Fair Association to move its race meet from Fairplex Park in Pomona to Los Alamitos Race Course this summer after being advised that legislation definitively giving the CHRB authority to do so is awaiting the Governor’s signature and after receiving assurances that the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has expressed no opposition to the move. The industry also reported that one stabling issue has been resolved by keeping the Fairplex stable area open through November 5, 2014. The LACFA meet will run from September 5 through September 21 at Los Alamitos.... ...

From E.A. Ranches RAMONA, Calif. (June 17, 2014) — Graded stakes winner Maybry’s Boy, a son of Santa Anita Handicap (gr. I) winner Broad Brush, is relocating from New York to E.A. Ranches in Ramona, Calif. Maybry’s Boy’s foals include multiple stakes winner Sportswriter, an earner of $361,033. Maybry’s Boy won the 2002 Spectacular Bid Stakes (gr. II). He is out of the graded stakes-placed Alydar mare Aly’s Conquest, and the second dam, Am Capable, is a multiple graded stakes winner. ...

From Los Alamitos CYPRESS, Calif. (June 11, 2014) — Los Alamitos Race Course kicks off its inaugural summer Thoroughbred racing season on Thursday, July 3. In order that you may be a part of this historical meet, Los Alamitos is offering horsemen and loyal fans the following reserved seating options. The Vessels Club brings the excitement of horse racing to a new level of luxury and comfort. This upscale facility is located on the top level of the Los Alamitos Grandstand perfectly situated over the finish line for ultimate viewing. The Vessels Club offers world-class menus delicately prepared and beautifully presented by Executive Chef Sam Gonzalez. In addition, Los Alamitos boasts a wonderful and expansive listing of wines. The Paddock Terrace, located in the Grandstand, offers a pristine view of the Winner’s Circle and races. Tables of four are all equipped with a television. No dress code is required for the Paddock Terrace. To reserve a table for the entire eight-day season, please fill out and return the Reserved Seating Application to Los Alamitos. Options... ...

From NTRA NEW YORK, N.Y. (June 5, 2014) – Seventeen members of Congress signed a letter delivered to the Department of Treasury on Tuesday requesting clarification to regulations regarding the way pari-mutuel winnings are calculated for tax purposes. The letter, which has garnered bipartisan support, was co-authored by Rep. Charles Boustany (R-LA) and Rep. John Yarmuth (D-KY). The additional signatories are Rep. Andy Barr (R-KY), Rep. Chris Gibson (R-NY), Rep. Tim Griffin (R-AR), Rep. Brett Guthrie (R-KY), Rep. David Jolly (R-FL), Rep. Rich Nugent (R-FL), Rep. Devin Nunes (R-CA), Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ), Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr. (D-NJ), Rep. Tom Reed (R-NY), Rep. Hal Rogers (R-KY), Rep. Tom Rooney (R-FL), Rep. Mike Thompson (D-CA), Rep. Paul Tonko (D-NY) and Rep. Todd Young (R-IN). Nearly 3,000 citizens signed a Change.org petition in support of the clarification within its first 48 hours. The petition is available here: http://chn.ge/RXZ6DW. “It is encouraging that this important clarification has received bipartisan support from members of Congress representing so many states. This demonstrates the significant economic... ...

From TAA LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 3, 2014) – Racing fans at Belmont Park looking for a timely keepsake of California Chrome’s bid for a Triple Crown can visit a special Green Screen  photo booth on the first floor grandstand (near the winner’s circle) on Belmont Stakes Day, Saturday, June 7th to promote the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA). Fans can support the retirement, retraining and adoption of former racehorses across North America with a $10 contribution and have their picture superimposed onto a racing photograph of California Chrome.  Tagged images can be immediately uploaded to social media accounts (Facebook, Twitter, or email) and fans will receive a souvenir “4 x 6” photograph. The booth is sponsored by Daily Racing Form (DRF), and 100% of the proceeds will go to Thoroughbred aftercare.   “Sherman Racing is proud to do all we can for The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. It is important what they do, so bringing attention to that is important to us,” said Alan Sherman, assistant trainer of California Chrome, whose connections... ...

From NTRA NEW YORK CITY (June 3, 2014) – The National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) today released a copy of a bipartisan letter from key members of Congress asking the Department of Treasury to clarify regulations regarding the way pari-mutuel winnings are calculated for tax purposes. The NTRA is also calling on horse racing industry participants and customers to express their support of the effort by signing a Change.org petition available here: http://chn.ge/RXZ6DW. The letter to the Secretary of the Department of Treasury was co-authored by Rep. Charles Boustany (R-LA) and Rep. John Yarmuth (D-KY) and co-signed by more than a dozen other congressmen. The request for clarification urges the inclusion of a bettor’s entire investment in a single pari-mutuel pool to determine the amount reported or withheld for tax purposes, as opposed to only the amount wagered on the correct result. This issue typically arises in the context of increasingly popular exotic wagers. For example, under the proposed clarification, the amount wagered by a Pick 6 player who hits... ...

From AHC House Committee Approves USDA Appropriations Bill    On May 29, 2014, the House Appropriations Committee approved its version of the FY 2015 Agriculture Appropriations bill.  This bill provides funding for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for the 2015 fiscal year (October 1, 2014 through September 30, 2015). The bill contains several provisions that impact the horse industry, including funding for USDA equine health activities, enforcement of the Horse Protection Act and a provision that would prohibit funding for USDA inspections at U.S. horse slaughter facilities. The Senate Appropriations Committee approved its version of 2015 Agriculture Appropriations bill on May 22.  Information about that bill can be found at: http://www.horsecouncil.org/senate-committee-approves-usda-appropriations-bill FY 2015 House USDA Appropriations Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service and Equine Health The bill would provide $867.5 million for the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). APHIS is the USDA agency responsible for protecting and promoting U.S. agricultural health, including responding to contagious equine disease outbreaks.   Funding for Equine, Cervid, and Small Rumiant health... ...

From CHRB ARCADIA, Calif. (May 24, 2014) – The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Thursday, May 22, 2014, at Santa Anita Park. Chairman Chuck Winner presided.  1st Vice Chair Bo Derek, 2nd Vice Chair Richard Rosenberg and Commissioners Madeline Auerbach, Steve Beneto, Jesse Choper, and George Krikorian 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 first non-fair thoroughbred race meet at Los Alamitos race course, home of a year-round quarter horse meet, commencing July 3 through July 13. Los Alamitos will offer thoroughbred cards on Thursday-through-Sunday afternoons as well as night quarter horse programs weekend nights except July 4. Both HRTV and TVG will show the thoroughbred races. ·        The Board approved the summer thoroughbred meet at Del Mar from July 17 through September 3. Del Mar Chief Operating Officer Josh Rubinstein reported that for the first time, both HRTV and TVG will broadcast the races for... ...

From NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 22, 2014) — Progress on the EXPIRE Act (S. 2260), legislation that would extend expired or expiring tax provisions through 2015, has been delayed until at least next month, according to Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden (D-OR). Senator Wyden said earlier this week that he hopes to work with Committee ranking member Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-UT) over the Memorial Day recess to resolve an amendments standoff that has halted progress of the $85 billion bill. Several of the provisions in the EXPIRE Act will directly impact horse owners and breeders. Most notable of these is a provision to extend the three-year recovery period for younger racehorses that expired at the end of 2013. This faster depreciation schedule replaced a seven-year recovery period that does not accurately reflect current-day investment behavior in racehorses. Unless the Act becomes law, the seven-year schedule will be in place for 2014. Additional provisions in the EXPIRE Act that will positively impact investment in qualified property for horse racing and... ...

From Barretts DEL MAR, Calif. (May 20, 2014) — Barretts Paddock Sale at Del Mar set for July 20 Barretts, in cooperation with the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, will conduct its third annual Paddock Sale of “Race Ready” horses in training on July 20th. As in past years, the auction will be held the first Sunday of the Del Mar meet in front of a large vibrant crowd after the final race on the card. The purpose of the “one-stop shopping” concept of the Paddock Sale is to encourage new racehorse ownership and increase the “Race Ready” horse inventory in California by promoting Del Mar’s Ship and Win Program. Five horses from the first two years became stakes winners subsequent to The Paddock Sale which equals more than 8% of all horses through the sales rings. A new record was set last year in the second Paddock Sale when the 3-year-old filly, Oscar Party, sold for $510,000.  Overall, the average price rose 98% and the median price rose 150% last... ...

From NTRA WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 15, 2014) — Progress on tax extender legislation continued this week when the U.S. Senate voted 96-3 to advance the EXPIRE Act (S. 2260). Last month the Senate Finance Committee considered and passed this legislation to extend expired or expiring tax provisions through 2015, including several that will directly impact the horse racing industry. Of particular interest to horse owners and breeders is a provision in the EXPIRE Act to extend the three-year recovery period for younger racehorses that expired at the end of 2013. This accelerated depreciation schedule replaced an onerous seven-year recovery period which will return in 2014 unless the EXPIRE Act becomes law. The shorter recovery period more accurately reflects current-day investments in racehorses and helps encourage continued investment. Other provisions in the EXPIRE Act that will positively impact horse racing and other businesses include an increase in the expense allowance and bonus depreciation. In the Act, the expense allowance is set at $500,000 with a $2 million threshold for qualified property... ...

By Bloodhorse.com ARCADIA, Calif. (May 14, 2014) — The Oak Tree Racing Association will move from its longtime offices at Santa Anita Park into a wing of the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association office sometime in June. “We are very pleased with the quarters and look forward to moving over there,” said Sherwood C. Chillingworth, executive vice president of the not-for-profit organization well known within the racing industry for its support of research and charity. Workers have been busy preparing the area for the arrival of Oak Tree personnel. The CTBA offices are located at 201 Colorado Place in Arcadia, across the street from the Santa Anita parking lot that serves the track’s infield. Oak Tree has kept offices at Santa Anita since its inception in 1969, when it first hosted a fall race meeting at Santa Anita. Oak Tree also has a long history with the CTBA. The two organizations co-hosted the California Cup program for California-bred runners during the Oak Tree meeting beginning in 1990. Santa Anita now hosts... ...

From EA Ranches ARCADIA, Calif. (May 12, 2014) — Top Fortitude, a 3 year old colt owned and bred by Triple AAA Ranch delivered a decisive upset victory in the Lazaro Barrera Stakes at Santa Anita. Going off as the second longest shot in the field at 30-1, the 3 year old colt pulled away from the field in the stretch and completed the 7 furlong race on the dirt course in a final time of 122.98 with a 1-1/2 length winning margin.  Top Fortitude’s stakes victory comes in only his third career start. Top Fortitude is a full brother to Uh Oh Bango, a multiple graded stakes winner standing at EA Ranches in Ramona, CA.  For more information on Uh Oh Bango please contact Marguerite Eliasson at 760-789-1498 or visit the farm website at earanches.com. ...

From Santa Anita Publicity ARCADIA, Calif. (May 7, 2014)—Santa Anita Park has announced that the first 10,000 fans attending The Great Race Place on Preakness Day, Saturday, May 17, will receive a free California Chrome baseball cap with paid General Admission. The cap is a replica of California Chrome’s distinctive purple and teal colors and will surely be a fan favorite as the California-bred sensation seeks his sixth win in-a-row in the middle jewel of racing’s Triple Crown. A chestnut colt by Lucky Pulpit, California Chrome followed his win in the $1 million Santa Anita Derby on April 5 with a stirring 1 ¾ length triumph in 140th Run for the Roses May 3—thus becoming only the fourth California-bred to win the Derby and the first since Decidedly in 1962. Owned and bred by Steve Coburn and Perry Martin, California Chrome is trained by Art Sherman and has been ridden to his last five victories by Victor Espinoza. First live race post time at Santa Anita on Preakness Day is... ...

By DRF.com CYPRESS, Calif. (May 6, 2014) — The Los Alamitos summer Thoroughbred meeting will feature seven stakes, including two Grade 2 races previously run at Hollywood Park under different names. The track’s summer meeting will run eight days, July 3-13, replacing racing dates previously held by Hollywood Park, which closed for development last December. The highlight of the Los Alamitos meeting will be the $500,000 Los Alamitos Derby on July 5, a Grade 2 race over 1 1/8 miles. The race was previously run at Hollywood Park as the Swaps Stakes and was worth $150,000 in 2013. The distance is unchanged. The meeting’s second weekend will be highlighted by the $200,000 Great Lady M Stakes for fillies and mares over 6 1/2 furlongs July 12. The Grade 2 race was previously run as the A Gleam Handicap over seven furlongs at Hollywood Park. The 2013 running of the A Gleam included a fees-paid berth to the Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Sprint through the Win and You’re In program.... ...

From CTBA ARCADIA, Calif. (May 4, 2014) — CTBA has made the decision to outsource the production of the California Thoroughbred magazine to The Blood Horse publications. It will continue to be published monthly and will have a larger distribution.   ...

From Barretts POMONA, Calif. (Apr. 30, 2014) — Fourteen two-year-olds have been supplemented to the 2014 Barretts May Two-Year-Old in Training Sale.   The supplemental horses will be sold directly after the end of the main catalog on Monday, May 12.  A complete list of the catalog supplement is shown at the bottom of this e-mail.  The entire sale catalog can be viewed at http://www.barretts.com/sales/Catalogs/catmay2014/catalogTABLE.asp The official training preview is scheduled to be held on Friday, May 9 on the Fairplex Park racetrack adjacent to Barretts, beginning at 10:00 a.m.   The preview will be streamed live at http://www.barretts.com/sales/ViewSale/index.asp   Video clips for each preview can be viewed on-line by the afternoon following the preview at www.barretts.com. Among the successful graduates of the May Sale in the past year are stakes winners Jeranimo, Stormy Lucy, Dice Flavor, Full Ransom, Can The Man, City by the Bay, L.A. Weekend, Lotsa Mischief, Scirocco Strike and Tasty Treat. ...

From CHRB BERKELEY, Calif. (Apr. 26, 2014) – The California Horse Racing Board conducted its regular meeting Friday, April 25, 2014, at Golden Gate Fields. Chairman Chuck Winner presided.  2nd Vice Chair Richard Rosenberg and Commissioners Madeline Auerbach, Steve Beneto, Jesse Choper, and George Krikorian 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: Representatives of Fairplex Park and Los Alamitos Race Course reported on their ongoing discussions concerning the possible application to the CHRB for Fairplex to move its race meet to the Orange County facility. They are expected to give a more detailed presentation if any application is presented for discussion and action at the May or June monthly Board meeting. Acting on a request from and full support of the Jockeys’ Guild, the Board approved for 45-day public notice a proposed regulatory amendment to prohibit jockeys from using the riding crop, or whip, more than three times in succession without allowing the horse... ...

From Oak Tree Racing Association ALBANY, Calif, (Apr. 25, 2014) — The California Horse Racing Board today approved a license application submitted by Oak Tree Racing Association and Alameda County Fair to conduct three weeks of racing at the Fairgrounds in Pleasanton, beginning on June 19, 2014 and running through July 6, 2014.  CHRB approval represents the latest step forward in a year-long effort by Oak Tree, Alameda County Fair and the California Authority of Racing Fairs to offer a new concept for racing in Northern California. Earlier in the year, the three organizations worked with California legislators to carry a bill which would clear the way for this effort.  In March, the legislature passed AB 1303 (Hall), which enabled Oak Tree to run at a Fair in Northern California.  Governor Brown signed the legislation on March 28, 2014.  An application for a racing license was submitted to the CHRB on April 11, 2014. “On behalf of the Oak Tree Board of Directors, we want to thank the California legislature,... ...

By Bloodhorse.com CYPRESS, Calif. (Apr. 25, 2014) — Over the next several months, the Los Angeles County Fair plans to phase out its racing-related activities at Fairplex Park, chief executive officer James Henwood told the California Horse Racing Board April 25. Meeting at Golden Gate Fields, CHRB commissioners had the opportunity to question Henwood and Brad McKinzie, Los Alamitos Racing Association vice president, on the proposed relocation of the 11-day LACF meeting to the Orange County facility Sept. 5-21. The discussion was for informational purposes, coming four days after the announcement of the proposed move was made. Action on the date transfer is likely to occur May 22, once a formal application has been submitted for the board’s regular monthly meeting at Santa Anita Park. None of the six commissioners present spoke against the proposal—in fact, some indicated they favored it. But they did ask several probing questions during the two-hour session. In response, Henwood said Fairplex “is not up the level of major league racing” patrons in Southern California... ...

From Ballena Vista Farm RAMONA, Calif. (Apr. 21, 2014) — Ballena Vista Farm announced today that Benchmark has been retired from the breeding shed. Initially the farm thought he was physically and reproductively capable of another season and bred a handful of mares to him the first two months of the 2014 season. Benchmark failed to impregnate them and will now be pensioned alongside fellow retiree Beau Genius. Throughout his stud career Benchmark has been a stalwart of the California breeding industry. He had nine consecutive years of over $2.3 million in progeny earnings and has total progeny earnings of $30.1 million. His 41 stakes winners and 10 graded winners from 742 foals of racing age, include Grade I winners Brother Derek, Idiot Proof, Silent Signs and Eclipse Award champion Points Offthebench who was honored as the 2013 Male Sprinter of the year. Benchmark, as a racehorse was a multiple Grade 2 winner of $636,707, and as a sire, he is the leading son of Alydar by progeny earnings. ...

RAMONA, Calif. (Apr. 21, 2014) — On Friday, April 18, Assemblymember Brian Jones, along with his wife Heather, their children, his mother and father, family friends, and staff members Gail Ramer and Leann Files joined CTBA President Doug Burge, CTBA Board Member Leigh Ann Howard and Event Coordinator Christy Chapman in eastern San Diego County to tour Ballena Vista Farm and E.A. Ranches at his request to visit Thoroughbred breeding and training farms. At Ballena Vista Farm, farm foreman Frank Ochoa guided the group along a tour that included viewing a newborn filly by Calimonco who was born just hours before their arrival, witnessing first-hand the vet checking a mare to confirm pregnancy, learning about the use of an Euroxciser, viewing the breeding shed and lab, and visiting leading sire Tribal Rule. At E.A. Ranches, farm manager Marguerite Eliasson showed the group stallions Uh Oh Bango, Rocky Bar and their 5/8 mile training track. Assemblyman Jones, and group, emerged quite educated after asking many questions while thoroughly enjoying their day... ...