California Horse Racing Board Faces Decisive Vote on State's Racing Future
The vote could shift racing exclusively to Southern California, impacting the industry's structure and breeding programs.
- The California Horse Racing Board is set to make a pivotal decision that could end racing in Northern California, favoring Southern California tracks.
- Santa Anita's operator, the Stronach Group, threatens to sell or close the iconic track if the board approves a new Northern California racing schedule.
- Closure of Golden Gate Fields has left a void in Northern California racing, with a proposal to replace it with racing at the Alameda County Fairgrounds facing scrutiny for lack of detail.
- The financial viability of racing in California is at risk, with Southern California interests arguing that consolidating racing in the south is necessary to sustain the industry.
- The decision could have significant consequences for California breeding, as Northern California's racing circuit is crucial for running California-bred horses.