ARCADIA, CA (Dec. 16, 2024) -- California’s Thoroughbred racing stakeholders have
finalized a landmark agreement to ensure the long-term viability of the sport statewide. Starting December 26 with the 90th opening of Santa Anita Park’s winter meet, the state will transition to a single circuit for most of the year, with Thoroughbred racing running exclusively at Santa Anita through June 15. The unified plan increases purses for both Northern and Southern owners, provides targeted support for Northern-based horses, and secures year-round stabling and training at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton.
"On behalf of 1/ST Racing, I am proud that industry stakeholders have united to forge a
sustainable future for California racing," said Aidan Butler, President of 1/ST, which owns and
operates Santa Anita Park. "This agreement ensures stability for racing and training across the
state while strengthening the overall product we present to fans and participants."
Key components of the plan include uninterrupted stabling and training at Pleasanton, along
with vanning services for Northern California-based horses traveling to and from Santa Anita.
Weekly races with preferences and restrictions for Northern-based horses will be carded with
travel stipends to help support horsemen and horsewomen traveling to Santa Anita.
“This blueprint represents the most efficient use of resources, building a stronger foundation
at Santa Anita while addressing the unique needs of our constituents in Northern California,”
said Bill Nader, President and CEO of the Thoroughbred Owners of California. “Utilizing
Pleasanton as an off-site stabling and training hub ensures continuity for horses and staff. This
agreement is a significant step forward for the future of California racing.”
The plan also underscores a firm commitment to Northern California’s summer fairs, which
remain a vital part of the state’s racing calendar.
“For decades, the California Authority of Racing Fairs (CARF) has delivered a vibrant
summer horse racing circuit at the state’s iconic fairgrounds,” said CARF Chairman Jerome
Hoban. “This new structure has the potential to provide the best opportunity for fair racing in the North to thrive. By maintaining local stabling, we support our horsemen and horsewomen while optimizing purses at racetracks statewide during the off-season.”
California stakeholders will seek ratification of the unified plan at Thursday’s meeting of the
California Horse Racing Board.
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