Wandering Eyes

A panel discussion titled “From Data to Dollars: Understanding Horse Racing's Economic Impact As Racing's Future is Questioned” during Wednesday's Global Symposium on Racing hosted by the University of Arizona Race Track Industry Program (RTIP) led off with moderator Alan Foreman confronting “the elephant in the room that we dodge.” Foreman, the chairman and chief executive officer of the Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association, said racing is facing an “existential moment” at a time when industry stakeholders increasingly must make the case for the sport's so-called social license to exist in the face of intense pressure from anti-racing activists and a younger generation of Americans who hold the belief that animal-based entertainment is more cruel than cool. “It's not about foal crop. It's not about field size. It's not about whether we have a core product,” Foreman said, ticking down the list of the common concerns that industry insiders often debate. “The single biggest issue right now [is] should the federal government, and should our state legislatures, continue to support our business?” Foreman said. Foreman then rephrased his rhetorical question more bluntly so there would be no misunderstanding: “Is it time to end horse racing in this country?” Foreman certainly doesn't think so, and neither did the panelists who joined him at the podium. But the group did try to offer pearls of wisdom as to how industry stakeholders might fight back when confronted with that question. Julie Broadway | Horsephotos Their answers largely centered on the sharing of strategies for getting across the industry's far-reaching scale and the potential ramifications of ceasing racing, and several speakers even articulated how some entities in the sport have effectively lobbied their respective states to secure financial incentives, bolster racing programs, and modernize facilities, like the currently underway rebuild of Belmont Park and the planned re-imagining of Pimlico Race Course. Foreman pointed out that even though there is now federal oversight in the form of the Horseracing and Safety Act (HISA) Authority, racing in the United States remains primarily a state-sanctioned business, and how much of the industry operates under laws that were enacted for vastly different economic reasons decades ago than what we face now. Every year at about this time when applying for next season's racing dates, Foreman said, track operators increasingly have to defend why their states should support our sport's way of doing business. “The point is, what the state giveth, the state can taketh,” Foreman summed up. And demonstrating that we are upholding that “social license” must take the form of deeds and not just words, Foreman said. He and the other panelists also concurred that the sport's narrative also must be backed up by accurate economic data, which helps to drive home points to legislators and regulators. What we need to successfully convey, Foreman said, is “if you talk about the economics of this business; the value of horse racing to the economies, of our local communities, of our states, of our country…I think that we can overcome this very challenging environment that we are in.” Julie Broadway is the president of the American Horse Council (AHC), a national organization whose work and data helps not only racing stakeholders, but everything equine-centric in the country, under a scope that ranges from broad national issues to smaller initiatives at the local government level. “You cannot sit still and sit back and wait for people in [government] to figure out what goes on in our industry and what it's all about,” was Broadway's assessment of how to approach dealing with politicians who can help usher through changes via legislation. Regardless of the level of government, Broadway said the approach is largely the same. Getting your message across means 1) educating decision-makers; 2) setting context and dispelling misinformation and inaccuracies about your position; 3) stating the positive and pointing out unintended and/or negative consequences, and 4) making the overall narrative relatable and personal. Those points are all underpinned by being armed with the proper data, Broadway said. Najja Thompson | Fasig-Tipton Najja Thompson, the executive director of the New York Thoroughbred Breeders, said that a lot of times when racing people go in to make their cases to legislators, they have to be aware that they'll be dealing with a lower-level staffer at first. “And they're not listening to me unless I have the data to implore them to get their representative to speak to me directly on why racing is important in New York,” he said. But, Broadway added, racing industry stakeholders can't benefit from that data if they don't join in to help compile it. Broadway gave the example of a recently undertaken AHC economic impact study that sought to include feedback from the racing industry. The data will eventually be used to underscore the importance of horse racing within America's larger equine population, and it will be available for anyone who wants to cite it in making their case for support from legislators. Yet only four Thoroughbred tracks responded. “This survey was out for more than six months,” Broadway explained. “I'm sad to say that the Thoroughbred racing industry had a really low response rate. I mean, we really had to beg for data.” Broadway contrasted that with participation from the harness racing industry, “because they really stepped up. They are getting their own breakout report just on Standardbred racing [that will] cut across all states where Standardbred racing occurs.” Lonny Powell, the chief executive officer of the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders' & Owners' Association, said he was stunned to hear that support from Thoroughbred tracks was so low. “That's amazing. That's tough. How are we going to tell our story if nobody's even trying?” Powell said. “I'm always a track guy,” Powell continued, alluding to his years in track management prior to a career turn toward executive jobs with industry entities. “And I just got get it. I don't get why you wouldn't want to tell the story.” Tom Rooney, the president and chief executive officer of the National Thoroughbred Racing Association, pointed out that being a reliable broker of data is important, but that you need to also skillfully be able to tell the story of those numbers in a narrative form to get your point across to non-racing listeners. “Clearly, the data is about jobs. It's about farms. It's about these things that we're used to going away, and maybe having to change the way that we work,” Rooney said. “If you work in the horse racing industry, you're kind of the subculture of skills that's probably applicable [in] very few other places. So we live in our own world, and we wouldn't be here if we didn't think that world was a good and beautiful endeavor to belong to.” Added Powell: “You've got to be able to tell somebody what the consequences are if your industry goes away.” Lonny Powell | Serita Hult Powell also pointed out that reams of data are great, but that time in front of legislators is limited, so racing stakeholders need to distill it into manageable, relatable chunks. “You've got to know it. You've got to believe it. You've got to have confidence in it. And you really have to care about the industry you're talking about it. Otherwise, it's just a study,” Powell said. “Make your story relatable to those that aren't in our industry.” Several panel participants underscored that people in racing have to take the time to forge personal bonds with legislators so the sport's stakeholders can be viewed as trusted sources. In other words, don't go seeking help from politicians for the first time only when “your back's against the wall,” Powell cautioned. “Are you kidding me? You've got to develop relationships. That takes years,” Powell said. Foreman stressed that the racing industry needs to hone (and often repeat) the message that the sport is an economic engine, and that the money it generates often gets reinvested back into the community in ways that aren't apparent to legislators. “Here's something that very rarely gets talked about, but legislators love to hear this,” Foreman said. “Racing is a community. We take care of our people,” he continued, giving examples of how in his home state of Maryland, the horsemen's health system provides full health care for the people who work in racing. “That is something that doesn't fall back on the local economy, that doesn't fall back on social services. It doesn't fall back on the state,” Foreman said. “It's the racing industry that supports that. We take care of the people who work with us, [and] that resonates with legislators. And that's why they're willing to support the industry, because they understand the local impact that it has.” To get that story across to political decision-makers, Foreman said, “we combined the economic impact with the social license aspects of it, and that's the takeaway.” Powell, however, had a different message to impart, speaking directly to RTIP students. He prefaced his comments by letting the RTIP majors know that he is a graduate of that program who was attending his 41st edition of the annual symposium, and that he understood how some of the presentations over the past two days that focused primarily on industry problems might be giving students second thoughts about pursuing a career in the sport. “Don't change your major,” Powell implored them, his voice at times cracking with emotion. “That's exactly why you're needed in leadership. That's exactly why you're needed in this business. Because we need people that believe you can make progress versus 'ride it all out.'” “It's difficult. It's changing,” Powell said of horse racing. “But you can't give up.” The post Amid Daunting Industry Issues, A Message To Symposium Students: Don’t Give Up appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

1st-AQU, $85K, Msw, 3yo/up, f, 6 1/2f, 12:20pm Godolphin's SPLIT SCREEN (Uncle Mo) gets her start for trainer Brad Cox, who strikes with 26% of his firsters. Having been working along the Kentucky circuit of late, she posted her latest trial at Turfway Dec. 2, covering five furlongs in 1:01 3/5 (34/62) over that oval's synthetic surface. The homebred is out of SW Divided Attention (A.P. Indy), a half-sister to Grade I winner Folklore. TJCIS PPS The post Thursday’s Insights: Daughter of Uncle Mo Debuts at Big A appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

In a release issued Dec. 6, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul expressed excitement that the 2024 Belmont Stakes (G1) will be held at Saratoga Race Course to allow for the uninterrupted construction at Belmont Park.View the full article

The HISA and Oaklawn Park have launched a new pilot program under which a designated area will be available for veterinarians to administer any intra-articular corticosteroid injections at the racetrack during Oaklawn's 2023-24 race season.View the full article

Enjoying one of the best seasons of his highly decorated career, jockey Irad Ortiz Jr. has made his way back to South Florida with the mission of ending the year as strongly as it began.View the full article

2024 racing dates at Colonial Downs were approved at the Virginia Racing Commission meeting Dec. 6. The 27-day season will be held over nine weeks from July 11 through Sept. 7. The Arlington Million (G1T) will be Aug. 10.View the full article

Who is Lucky Vega? From Monday to Friday, he bases himself at the Irish National Stud, having retired there off the back of a successful career on the track where he won a Group 1 for trainer Jessica Harrington. A quick scan through the results at any of the big sales either side of the Irish Sea recently and you will see that Lucky Vega has been keeping himself busy upon his retirement, with his name featuring alongside some of the more select lots. Lucky Vega, of course, is in fact one of the entities in which Yulong Investments have been supporting the stock by the stallion and, in cases like Wednesday, mares to visit him in the future. One of the market leaders to make a booming start with his first two-year-olds next year, Lucky Vega appears to have the continued support of his owner Zhang Yuesheng, with the Chinese businessman signing for the 160,000gns top lot at Park Paddocks on Wednesday. While the Wednesday trade couldn't match the unblinking excitement the Sceptre Sessions offered 24 hours previously, business remained satisfactory, with the Lucky Vega team once again bidding online to land the unraced daughter of No Nay Never from Godolphin. Mufdeea (Ire) never managed to reach the track but the good-looking No Nay Never filly boasts a strong pedigree, being a daughter of listed winner Zoowraa (GB) (Azamour {Ire}), and a sister to two black-type performers. Japanese Buyers To The Fore Once More The Japanese buyers need less of an introduction at Tattersalls and, off the back of Northern Farms snapping up Group 1 winners Prosperous Voyage (Ire) and Cachet (Ire) at the Sceptre Sessions, the Shadai Corporation landed Candle of Hope (GB) (Cable Bay {Ire}) from the Royal Studs for 100,000gns. Trained by Richard Hughes, Candle Of Hope carried the Queen's colours to victory on her opening two starts at two last year before placing third in the listed Denford S. at Newbury. She also managed to place at listed level on a second occasion. Naohiro Hosoda of the Shadai Corporation commented, “She has black-type and a good race record. She had lots of speed and is good-looking. I am a big fan of Green Desert, who is in the pedigree. We have not decided on her immediate plans.” JS Company Edges Close To 1 Million Spend Fellow Japanese buyers JS company have been busy this week, notably when going to 560,000gns for Nazanin (Declaration Of War) in the Sceptre Sessions, and the overall haul stood at eight mares at close of play on Wednesday. JS Company paid 70,000gns for Lady's Slipper (Fr), a daughter of Frankel (GB), from Godolphin on Wednesday to bring the overall spend to almost 1 million gns. Keisuke Onishi commented, “She [Lady's Slipper] will be shipped back to Japan and visit a stallion there. The Sunday Silence line could be very suitable for this filly.” He added on Espionne (GB), a Dubawi filly purchased from Godolphin for 37,000gns earlier in the day, “There is a lot of selection for her because Dubawi mares are very popular and suitable to Japanese stallions.” JS Company spent 959,000gns on the eight mares all told with Onishi describing trade this week at Tattersalls as competitive. He said, “The Sceptre Sessions were quite fantastic but also difficult to purchase. We succeeded to buy one and my client was so happy. The other part is, it was very reasonable for us. I had been afraid of the currency situation–Japanese Yen is not so strong against the British pound but there were reasonably-priced horses here which meant we could participate.” Rampal Ramps Up Support For Chindit Gaurav Rampal is a familiar face on the Tattersalls sale ground and was as busy as ever this week signing for seven lots under his own name and others more for outside clients. Included in the outside spend were three mares on behalf of Poonawalla Stud, who is now the home of Chindit (Ire), a dual Group 2 winner for Richard Hannon. Rampal said, “I have bought for five different clients and have a new client who is new to Tattersalls as well. They are a mix of racing and breeding prospects. It's been a happy buying but tough buying.” He added, “We're very excited about Chindit. He's a strong, solid horse for Dr Poonawalla who had a bit of fun racing him as well. Some of these mares will go to Chindit. He's already in India and has travelled well.” Malka Makes 95k To Stroud Malka (Ire), a winning daughter of Nathaniel (Ire), was sold on behalf of Normandie Stud by Newsells Park Stud to Anthony Stroud for 95,000gns. Stroud commented, “She has been bought for Craig Mather and will be trained in France. I am very pleased to have bought from the breeder. Malka comes from a good farm and is by a good stallion.” Buy of the day Credit to press bench's Nancy Sexton who, with a mischievous tone, nominated Two In The Pink (Clodovil {Ire}) as being the best buy of the day at Park Paddocks. While Two In The Pink may not be winning the best-named racehorse stakes any time soon, few can argue that she wasn't well-bought at just 4,500gns. A sister to Alben Star (Ire), a rock-solid eight-time winner and all-weather specialist for Richard Fahey, Two In The Pink has already proved herself as a producer. She's the dam of black-type performer You Are Beautiful (GB) (Adaay {Ire}) while Lambert (GB) (Due Diligence) is a triple winner. In fact, a brother to Lambert sold particularly well here last week at 52,000gns, as did a Sergei Prokofiev (Can) yearling at Book 3 in October for 46,000gns. That all bodes well for Jerry Horan, who bought Two In The Pink to visit young stallion El Caballo (GB), the G2-winning son of Havana Gold (Ire), set to stand at Culworth Grounds Farm for £6,000 in 2024. The post Never Offline: Lucky Vega Team Take Home Another Top Lot At Tatts appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The 27-day live racing season at Colonial Downs for 2024 will be held over nine weeks from Thursday, July 11 through Saturday, Sept. 7 as approved by the Virginia Racing Commission, the track said in a release Wednesday. Like last season, the New Kent site will race three days per week, Thursday through Saturday. “The success of the 2023 meet, which brought weekend racing back to Colonial Downs, was a credit to the tremendous support here in Virginia from the owners, trainers, horseplayers, hard-working staff and partners,” said Senior Director of Racing Operations Frank Hopf. “We're excited to build upon the momentum and look forward to a tremendous 2024 season.” The Festival of Racing including the GI Arlington Million S. is slated for Saturday, Aug. 10. The GIII Virginia Derby will anchor the closing day card on Saturday, Sept. 7. The entire stakes schedule for the 2024 season will be made available in the coming weeks. The 2023 season offered more than $650,000 per day in purses and boasted an average of 8.19 starters per race. Average daily handle was $2,658,028. Purse money for the 2024 season is expected to be nearly $700,000 per day. The post Colonial Downs Dates Approved For 2024 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

In this series, the TDN takes a look at notable successes of European-based sires in North America. This week's column is highlighted by the victory of Unconquerable Keen at Del Mar. Keen Rides Out The Storm At Del Mar It was another stakes victory for the Phil D'Amato barn with the former European runner Unconquerable Keen (Ire) (Clodovil {Ire}) in the Stormy Liberal S. at Del Mar on Saturday (video). Bred by Nicholas Hartery, the 4-year-old gelding managed a pair of victories in his native land in the colours of his breeder and trainer Michael Halford before changing hands. Now, raced by CYBT, Omar Aldabbagh, and Michael Nentwig, the son of Queenie Keen (Ire) (Refuse To Bend {Ire}), herself out of a half-sister to the stakes winner Duty Paid (Ire) (Barathea {Ire}), is the 26th stakes winner for his sire worldwide. The son of Danehill has sired seven winners from 13 runners in the U.S. (54%). His other stakes winner in that jurisdiction is GII Santa Ana S. heroine Tuttipaesi (Ire), while both Enchanteresse (Ire) and Laugh Out Loud (GB) have been stakes placed. Repeat Winners No Nay Hudson (No Nay Never), a winner of the William Walker S. in May, returned to take a Gulfstream contest for trainer Wesley Ward on Dec. 1 (video). He currently races for Andrew Farm and For the People Racing Stable, LLC. Featured in the same May edition of Making Waves is current dual Grade I winner Program Trading (GB) (Lope De Vega {Ire}) who races in the Klaravich Stables' colours. He secured a victory in the GI Hollywood Derby for trainer Chad Brown on Dec. 2 (video). Already the winner of a Del Mar maiden in September, Zona Verde (Ire) (Calyx {GB}) earned her first stakes victory in the GIII Jimmy Durante S. at Del Mar on Saturday (video). Almendares (GB) (Havana Grey {GB}), third in the GII Del Mar Derby in September, won for the fourth time in his career at Del Mar on Sunday (video). Already a Stateside winner in July, the gelding races for trainer Phil D'Amato and an ownership group of CYBT, McLean Racing Stables, Saul Gevertz, Michael Nentwig and Ray Pagano. The post Making Waves: Clodovil Gelding Earns Stakes Badge In California appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

by Len Green, CPA and John Wollenberg, CPA In Thoroughbred racing, it's not over until the horse crosses the wire. The same is true with maximizing your tax deductions and minimizing your taxes. For those who think it is too late to save on your 2023 taxes, The Green Group is here to tell you, it's not! With over 40 years of experience and our knowledge of the new tax laws, we are confident the following information will assist as you approach the 2023 home stretch. Impact of Recent Tax Acts on the Horse Industry Recent Tax Acts contain favorable developments for depreciating and expensing yearlings, breeding stock, farm equipment and other property. Bonus Depreciation: Bonus depreciation allows a write-off of up to 80% for 2023 in the first year for yearlings, breeding stock and farm equipment. Used property can now also qualify. In 2024, the bonus depreciation drops to 60%. A few weeks still remain for 2023 asset additions with the potential benefit of the 80% write-off. IRC §179 Deduction: The maximum amount that may be expensed has been increased to $1,160,000. The phase-out threshold has been increased to $2,890,000 million. Farm Equipment: The useful life of new farm machinery and equipment is five years, while the useful life is seven years when you purchase used equipment. Racehorses: The pending Racehorse Cost Recovery Act of 2023 would make permanent three-year depreciation. If business equipment (or horses) are purchased before year-end, they may still qualify for tax benefits. 2023 Year-End Tax Planning Strategies With uncertainty over whether tax law changes will be forthcoming after next year's election, year-end tax planning for 2023 is more important than ever. Steps Available for Individual Taxpayers Capital Gains: If you have realized capital gains in 2023, along with unrealized losses, you might want to trigger those losses before year-end to offset your gains, thereby reducing your tax liability. On the flip side, if you have realized losses, consider taking some gains, as the deduction for capital losses is limited to $3,000 in any given year. Retirement Plan Alerts: Beginning in 2023, the Secure 2.0 Act raised the age that you must begin taking Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) to age 73. Retirement plan account owners can delay taking their RMDs until the year in which they retire, unless they are a 5% owner of the business sponsoring the plan. There is no longer an age limit on making regular contributions to traditional or Roth IRAs. Contributions to a Keogh Plan or a one-person 401(k) Plan can be significant and save you substantial 2023 tax dollars if set up before December 31, 2023. A SEP-IRA is another flexible alternative. A SEP can be set up before the filing date of your 2023 tax return, yet still provide you with a 2023 deduction. Avoid the Underpayment of Estimated Tax Penalty: If you have not prepared a 2023 income tax projection, you should have your advisor do so. If your projection shows a balance due, request that a disproportionate amount of withholding be taken from your December paychecks, year-end bonus or retirement plan distribution, rather than paying a comparable significant amount with a fourth quarter estimate tax voucher. This withholding approach is more favorable than writing a check because taxes that are withheld in December are deemed “thrown back” and treated as evenly spread through the calendar year. This enables you to catch up on any shortfall and still avoid a penalty for the first three quarters. Business Losses: Of great importance, 2023 business losses are capped at $289,000 for single taxpayers and $578,000 for joint returns. Please take these loss limitations into consideration when preparing your 2023 income tax projections. Any losses in excess of these thresholds, become net operating loss carryovers to the following year. Maximize the Pass-Through Business Income Deduction: This tax saving deduction allows certain taxpayers to deduct 20% of their qualified business income. To maximize the deduction, you should take action steps to qualify for taxable income so it is below this new provision's phase-out thresholds. Steps Available for Business Taxpayers Maximize Available Depreciation: Businesses should consider making expenditures that qualify for 80% first year bonus depreciation. Generally, both new and used depreciable assets are eligible. The full first year write-off is allowed even if the asset is purchased late in the year and put into use and even if the deduction gives rise to a taxable loss. Also, make sure you are taking bonus depreciation on all assets that are eligible. Many times assets are missed as to leasehold improvements, or horses purchased in overseas sales or horses put into training but not yet raced. An alternative is IRC §179 depreciation, where for 2023 the expense limit has been raised to $1,160,000 if the investment purchases do not exceed $2,890,000. Keep in mind that IRC §179 expensing cannot give rise to a loss. Qualified Business Income Deduction (QBID): Certain business owners may be entitled to a deduction of up to 20% of their qualified business income. You should take whatever steps are possible to keep your taxable income below that phase-out threshold. The rules are complex, so contact your tax advisor so they can help you maximize the use of the QBID. Active Business Requirements: Operate your horse activities in a business-like manner. We go so far as to recommend that you form a Limited Liability Company (LLC) before year-end and definitely have a separate checkbook. Keep a record of your horse business activities. Consult with someone knowledgeable in the horse business to ascertain if you meet some of the nine tests to “qualify” as “active” and, therefore, put yourself in the position to take “full advantage” of any tax losses you may incur. State Pass-Thru Entity Tax (PTET): The $10,000 limit on deduction of state income and local real estate taxes, commonly referred to as the SALT Cap, has prompted most states to allow pass-thru entities, such as partnerships and S corporations, to pay tax at the entity level. Although the rules are different in each state, the pass-thru entity generally receives a deduction and, as a result, passes less income to the partner or S corporation shareholder, thereby providing a “workaround” to the harsh SALT Cap. Steps Available for Estate Planning Estates of decedents who die during 2024 will have a basic exclusion amount of $13,610,000, increased from $12,920,000 for estate of decedents who died in 2023. Unless Congress takes action, this exclusion is set to go back to approximately $6,000,000 in 2026, at which point your ability to lessen estate taxes will be significantly reduced. We can help you plan for this change. One Final Note The IRS is examining a greater percentage of taxpayers whose businesses are reflecting losses. Proper tax planning, strategy and utilization of professionals who know the horse industry are great tools to withstand any IRS scrutiny. The Green Group welcomes the opportunity to discuss your 2023 year-end tax savings strategies with you by phone at (732) 634-5100 and ask for Len Green, CPA or John Wollenberg, CPA. The post Sound Tax Advice From The Green Group As The Wire Approaches appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The HISA and Oaklawn Park have launched a new pilot program under which a designated area will be available for veterinarians to administer any intra-articular corticosteroid injections at the racetrack during Oaklawn's 2023-2024 race season.View the full article

Every week, the TDN posts a roundup of the relevant Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act (HISA) related rulings from around the country. Among the key rulings from the last seven days, the prohibition of intra-articular injections within seven days of a timed or reported workout once again stands out as a thorn in the side of trainers. Three such cases have been resolved in the past week, resulting in $3,000 fines meted out in each case. The Horseracing Integrity and Welfare Unit (HIWU) also handed down a seven-day suspension and $1,000 fine to trainer Norman Follett, for a post-race Lidocaine positive following a September runner at Belmont at the Big A. Lidocaine is a pain reliever used ubiquitously in human medicine. The details of the ruling are not yet publicly available. But Equibase shows Follett to run a small New York-based stable. This year, he has made only 39 starts and had one winner. NEW HISA/HIWU STEWARDS RULINGS The following rulings were reported on HISA's “rulings” portal and through the HIWU's “pending” and “resolved” cases portals. Resolved ADMC Violations Date: 11/4/2023 Licensee: Gustavo Amaya, trainer Penalty: A fine of $3,000; imposition of 3 Penalty Points. Admission. Explainer: A possible violation of Rule 3314—Use or Attempted Use of a Controlled Medication Substance or a Controlled Medication Method—on the horse, Sandpiper Memories. This was also a possible violation of Rule 4222—Intra-Articular Injections Within Seven (7) Days of Timed and Reported Workout. Date: 10/26/2023 Licensee: Wendell McDaniel, trainer Penalty: A fine of $500; imposition of 1.5 Penalty Points. Final decision by HIWU. Explainer: For the presence of Phenylbutazone—Controlled Medication (Class C)—in a sample taken from Big Difference. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312—Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 10/25/2023 Licensee: Peter Miller, trainer Penalty: A fine of $3,000; imposition of 3 Penalty Points. Final decision by HIWU. Explainer: A possible violation of Rule 3314—Use or Attempted Use of a Controlled Medication Substance or a Controlled Medication Method—on the horse, Thirsty John. This was also a possible violation of Rule 4222—Intra-Articular Injections Within Seven (7) Days of Timed and Reported Workout. Date: 10/24/2023 Licensee: Jamie Ness, trainer Penalty: A fine of $3,000; imposition of 3 Penalty Points. Final decision by HIWU. Explainer: A possible violation of Rule 3314—Use or Attempted Use of a Controlled Medication Substance or a Controlled Medication Method—on the horse, Dust Devil. This is also a possible violation of Rule 4222—Intra-Articular Injections Within Seven (7) Days of Timed and Reported Workout. Date: 10/14/2023 Licensee: Ronnie Cravens, trainer Penalty: Disqualification of Covered Horse's Race results, including forfeiture of all purses and other compensation, prizes, trophies, points, and rankings and repayment or surrender (as applicable); a fine of $500; imposition of 1.5 Penalty Points. Final decision by HIWU. Explainer: For the presence of Phenylbutazone—Controlled Medication (Class C)—in a sample taken from Saturday's Gold, who won at Remington Park Oct. 14, 2023. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312—Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 10/11/2023 Licensee: Darlene Green, trainer Penalty: Disqualification of Covered Horse's Race results, including forfeiture of all purses and other compensation, prizes, trophies, points, and rankings and repayment or surrender (as applicable); a written reprimand (per 9/26/23 HISA Guidance). Final decision by HIWU. Explainer: For the presence of Omeprazole—Controlled Medication (Class C)—in a sample taken from Highcotton Justice, who finished second at Horseshoe Indianapolis Oct. 11, 2023. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312—Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 9/22/2023 Licensee: Norman Follett, trainer Penalty: 7-day period of Ineligibility, beginning on Dec. 5, 2023; Disqualification of Covered Horse's Race results, including forfeiture of all purses and other compensation, prizes, trophies, points, and rankings and repayment or surrender (as applicable); a fine of $1,000; imposition of 2 Penalty Points. Admission. Explainer: For the presence of Lidocaine—Controlled Medication (Class B)—in a sample taken from Racing Colors, who finished second at Belmont at the Big A Sept. 22, 2023. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312—Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Pending ADMC Violations Date: 11/01/2023 Licensee: Steve Krebs, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Guaifenesin—Controlled Medication (Class C)—in a sample taken from Burn The Evidence, who won at Parx Racing Nov. 1, 2023. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312—Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 10/31/2023 Licensee: Ortis Henry, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Glycopyrrolate—Controlled Medication (Class C)—in a sample taken from Empress Palpatine, who finished second at Finger Lakes Oct. 31, 2023. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312—Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 10/28/2023 Licensee: Tony Lello, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Methocarbamol—Controlled Medication (Class C)—in a sample taken from Reel Em In. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312—Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Violations of Crop Rule One important note: HISA's whip use limit is restricted to six strikes during a race. Del Mar Armando Aguilar – violation date Dec. 1; $250 fine, one-day suspension Tyler Gaffalione – violation date Dec. 2; $277 fine, one-day suspension Remington Park Jermaine Valentino Bridgmohan – violation date Nov. 29; $250 fine, one-day suspension OTHER KEY RULINGS The TDN also publishes a roundup of key official rulings from the primary tracks within the four major racing jurisdictions of California, New York, Florida and Kentucky. Here's a primer on how each of these jurisdictions adjudicates different offenses, what they make public (or not) and where. California Track: Del Mar Date: 12/03/2023 Licensee: Keron Thomas, owner Penalty: Suspension Violation: Failure to comply with financial responsibility agreement Explainer: Owner Keron Thomas is suspended after failing to comply to the terms agreed to in the hearing for violation of California Horse Racing Board rule #1876 (Financial Responsibility – Sunshine Farms [Boarding cost] $5,170.97). Suspension to commence Dec. 16, 2023. Track: Del Mar Date: 12/03/2023 Licensee: Antonio Fresu, jockey Penalty: One-day suspension Violation: Competing in one more designated race than permitted Explainer: Jockey Antonio Fresu is suspended for 1 additional racing day (Dec. 10, 2023) pursuant to California Horse Racing Board rule #1766 (f) (Designated Races – participated in more than one designated race on Dec. 3, 2023). New York Track: Aqueduct Date: 11/30/2023 Licensee: Jose Antonio Gomez, jockey Penalty: Five-day suspension Violation: Careless riding Explainer: Having waived his right to an appeal Jockey Mr. Jose Antonio Gomez is hereby suspended five NYRA racing days. Effective Dec. 7-10, 2023, and Dec. 14, 2023, inclusive. This for careless riding during the running of the 7th race at Aqueduct Racetrack Nov. 25, 2023. The post Weekly Stewards And Commissions Rulings, Nov. 28-Dec. 4 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Jockey Vincent Ho made history Wednesday night at iconic Happy Valley Racecourse on Hong Kong Island, becoming the first 'homegrown' rider to take out the prestigious Longines International Jockeys' Championship. With a narrow victory over Zac Purton in the fourth and final leg of the series, Ho amassed a total of 20 points to Purton's 18, with Australia's Rachel King and the locally based South African Lyle Hewitson on 16 points. King was declared outright third, with her victory in the first leg of the competition and an additional third-place finish in the finale trumping Hewitson's three minor placings. To say it has been an eventful last four months in the life of Vincent Ho would be an understatement of monumental proportions. The 33-year-old graduate of the HKJC's Apprentice Jockeys' School, who is best known for his affiliation with three-time Horse of the Year Golden Sixty (Aus) (Medaglia d'Oro), announced his intentions to participate in the Shergar Cup at Ascot in August and was planning on riding at Goodwood as a warm-up as well. But he was seriously injured in a spill in late July when riding on a short-term stint at Niigata in Japan, resulting in a fractured vertebra, whiplash and a pneumothorax on his lung, Asian Racing Report wrote in August. Despite the severity of the injuries, Ho was back in time for the third meeting of the new season in Hong Kong, only to be suspended in early October for 10 meetings for failing to sufficiently ride out his mount in a dead-heat victory, a penalty later cut to eight while being forced to pay a fine of HK$120,000 in lieu of the two extra dates. He returned to the saddle on Nov. 12 and still managed to book his spot in the IJC, in which he had finished alone in third in 2019 and a joint-third with fellow local rider Derek Leung last year. But it was King, making her IJC debut, who struck first for Melbourne Cup-winning conditioner David Hall aboard 9-1 outsider Oversubscribed (Aus) (Reward For Effort {Aus}) (video), who–as reported by HKJC commentator Tom Wood–was making his fourth straight appearance in the Class 4 over the 1000 metres. “He was probably the perfect start to riding here at Happy Valley,” said King, who narrowly missed winning this year's World Series Jockeys at Sapporo. “He's looked after me and did everything for me.” Speaking after her third placing was confirmed, King added: “I think it was a good first effort. The atmosphere at Happy Valley is unbelievable and I really enjoyed it.” Ryan Moore, a two-time IJC winner and three times its runner-up, has his best scoring chance in the second leg of the IJC and duly obliged aboard 8-5 favourite M Unicorn (NZ) (Savabeel {Aus}) for the training King of Happy Valley Caspar Fownes, spearing through from between rivals before proving a slashing winner (video). Moore was himself injured in a fall at Kyoto Nov. 19. Leading Hong Kong jockey Zac Purton was downplaying his chances for a third IJC in the last four years prior to the event, but put himself into the reckoning with an inspired stalk-and-pounce ride aboard Silver Sonic (Aus) (Exosphere {Aus}) for Golden Sixty's trainer Francis Lui at odds just north of 8-1 (video). Half of the 12 riders remained in with chances to varying degrees entering the IJC finale over 1200 metres. From an outside alley, Ho kicked the in-form David Hayes-trained Tomodachi Kokoroe (Aus) (Written Tycoon {Aus}) straight into the lead, set a steady pace and just held off Purton's mount Kaholo Angel (GB) (Havana Grey {GB}) to secure the victory (video). The always humble Ho learned he'd won only during the post-race debrief with the HKJC's Nick Child. “I was not aware [I had won] and I didn't even know about the points, I just kept riding every race to have a winning chance,” said Ho. “I felt the track today favoured the front-runners a little bit so that definitely helped and of course Mr Hayes' team did a great job and helped me win this. “As the first homegrown of course I received plenty of support here and hopefully it will inspire more kids.” Ho, whose two HKIR successes came aboard Golden Sixty in the Hong Kong Mile in 2020 and 2021, also rides Senor Toba (Aus) (Toronado {Ire}) in the Hong Kong Vase and the progressive Straight Arron (Aus) (Fastnet Rock {Aus}) in the Hong Kong Cup, both for former boss Fownes. Moore's 12 points was good for fifth place, Tom Marquand's best finish was a fourth in leg three and Hollie Doyle posted a pair of fifth-place finishes. Yuga Kawada, James McDonald, Bauyrzhan Murzabayev and Karis Teetan also failed to point. That's one way to kick off the #IJC! @LONGINES | #IJC | #HKracing pic.twitter.com/Hs5LquPZBg — HKJC Racing (@HKJC_Racing) December 6, 2023 The post ‘Ho’-megrown Success In the Longines IJC appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

by Brigette Solomon David Butcher is always one to follow on his home track and lines up a number of good chances at Cambridge Raceway tonight. But the Waikato-based trainer-driver is leaning more towards place chances with his runners, rather than outright winners. The first of Butcher’s starters is Changealot in Race 3, the Dunstan Salute Mobile Pace over 2200m. “He’s got a good draw so with a good trip and a bit of luck he’s a place chance” says Butcher. Romeo Foxtrot, a strong winner a fortnight ago at Alexandra Park, steps out in Race 5, the Dunstan Recovery Mash Handicap Trot, with Junior Driver Jordyn Bublitz driving in the hopes of a penalty free win. “He starts off 10 metres but could get a good run through on the fence if he steps well, and with the right trip he should be right amongst it,” says Butcher. “He prefers the 2200m trip too.” Caulfield starts in Race 5, the Dunstan Move Free Mobile Pace over 1700m. “He’s got the ace draw and being over 1700m I’ll be aiming to hold them out early, he’s a good place chance” says Butcher. Caulfield was a winner on the same track on October 12. Also starting in Race 5 are last start winners Proviseur, Benjamin Button, and Medina Magic while Mr Kaplan, trained by Tony Herlihy and driven by in-form junior Monika Ranger, will also be heavily backed. The final of the Butcher-trained horses is Brookside Girl in Race 6 Dunstan Speedfeed Mobile Pace over 1700m. . “She’s drawn wide and being fresh up and racing some seasoned horses I won’t be sending her forward early,” says Butcher. “She will take benefit from the run and be one to follow.” The three-year-old Downbytheseaside filly has a win and six placings to her name from just seven starts. Butcher also drives the Arna Donnelly-trained Turnpike Joe in Race 7. View the full article

As 2023 draws to a close, the TDN is asking industry members to name their favorite moment of the year. Send yours to suefinley@thetdn.com “What was my favorite moment of 2023? I'm sure most people would be hard pressed to decide if it was getting engaged or winning the Kentucky Derby. Thankfully I got to experience every moment of the Kentucky Derby with the woman of my dreams AND 382 of my friends. It's a day we'll never forget and for that I'm forever grateful.” –Chase Chamberlin, Co-Founder & Head of Racing at CMNWLTH, part of ownership group including OGMA Investments, Sterling Racing and Ramiro Restrepo of Mage (Good Magic). The post What Was Your Favorite Moment of 2023: Chase Chamberlin appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Racing Together Industry Day will be held at Chester Racecourse on Feb. 8, the organisation announced on Wednesday. The 2024 edition will take place at Chester Racecourse and will consist of a variety of speakers from both within and outside the racing industry. Conor McGinn, co-chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group for Racing and Bloodstock will open the day and will be joined by speakers from the sports of rugby and cricket. This year the event will be kindly supported by Gallagher's Insurance, who will be exploring the ideas of corporate sponsorship in the Community Engagement Space. For tickets–currently £75 until Jan. 12 when the price increases to £85–and to find out more, please visit the Racing Together website. The post Racing Together Industry Day To Return In February appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Finalists Junior Alvarado, Alex Birzer, Julien Leparoux, Edwin Maldonado, and Rodney Prescott await the vote of jockeys nationwide.View the full article

Sam Houston Race will kick off its 2024 live racing season Jan. 5 and is in final preparations for the 43-day Thoroughbred meet, which will continue through April 7.View the full article

The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority and Oaklawn Park have launched a new pilot program under which a designated area will be available for veterinarians to administer any intra-articular corticosteroid injections at the racetrack during the track's 2023-2024 race season beginning Friday, Dec. 8, HISA said in a press release Wednesday. As HISA laid out in its Strategic Response to recent equine fatalities, many stakeholders, including a significant number of individuals calling into HIWU's confidential tip line, have questioned whether Covered Persons are properly and accurately reporting intra-articular corticosteroid injections. In order to address this issue and ensure injections are administered in compliance with HISA's Anti-Doping and Medication Control regulations, HISA proposed two possible solutions: (1) a designated area at the racetrack for all intra-articular injections to be administered; or (2) the requirement of a short video of the veterinarian performing the intra-articular injection to be uploaded with the injection report. Oaklawn has volunteered to test the first of these potential solutions. Under this pilot program, Oaklawn will offer a designated private location at its Summer Bird Barn for intra-articular injections and will compensate Covered Persons who volunteer to have them administered there up to $250 for the first 100 intra-articular corticosteroid injections this season. All intra-articular corticosteroid injections prescribed and administered by a veterinarian at Oaklawn must be observed in-person by the track's Integrity Officer, Beverly Fowler, or another designated racetrack employee, regardless of whether it is administered in the designated location. The pilot program will be used to determine the feasibility and value of this approach, as well as to identify challenges that would need to be resolved for it to be successful nationally. “HISA is thankful for Oaklawn Park's willingness to test this process, which has been used successfully in sport horses for many years,” said HISA CEO Lisa Lazarus. “By testing this concept, the Oaklawn team is contributing meaningfully to HISA's efforts to make the sport safer and more transparent. Based on horsemen and veterinarian feedback and results, designated intra-articular injection treatment areas may eventually be presented to the Racetrack Safety Committee to consider promulgating a uniform rule.” “Oaklawn Park is pleased to be a leader in equine health and safety,” said Louis Cella, President, Oaklawn Park. “It is clear to us that the sport must evolve and continue to do everything in its power to keep horses safe. We support HISA's efforts to explore new methods of ensuring safety and integrity and we appreciate our horsemen's support and engagement.” Prior to each intra-articular injection at Oaklawn this season, the trainer or veterinarian must inform the Integrity Officer of the day and time it will be administered to ensure she or a designee are present. Injection appointments may be scheduled by calling the Integrity Officer at (501) 762-3864. The veterinarian and Integrity Officer, or their designee, must fill out and sign an accompanying form and submit photos of the medication that is being injected. A copy of the form will be provided to the veterinarian administering the injection, the trainer, the Integrity Officer's office and the State Veterinarian. The post HISA And Oaklawn Park Designate Area For Intra-Articular Injection Treatments appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Bay Bridge (GB) has been retired to stand at the Devin family's Haras du Mesnil in France, where he will join Doctor Dino (Fr) and Telecaster (GB) on the roster for 2024. The Group 1-winning son of New Bay (GB) will stand for a fee of €6,000 while James Wigan and Ballylinch Stud are set to stay in as partners in the 5-year-old. Bay Bridge won seven of his 16 starts for Sir Michael Stoute and reached a career-high rating of 122 in amassing almost £1.3 million in prize-money. His career highlight came when winning the G1 British Champion S at Ascot, where he downed the previously unbeaten Baaeed (GB), with Derby hero Adayar (Ire) also a noteworthy scalp. The post Group 1 Winner Bay Bridge Retired To Stand At Haras Du Mesnil appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Oversubscribed and Helene Feeling record milestone victories for British jockey representing Australia and local trainer at Happy Valley on Wednesday nightView the full article

After pipping Zac Purton in Wednesday’s prestigious competition, the superstar rider remembers asking his idols for autographs on Happy Valley’s night of nightsView the full article

Both multiple Group 1 winner Vadeni (Fr) (Churchill {Ire}) and Group 2 winner Erevann (Fr) (Dubawi {Ire}) will be on show at The Aga Khan Studs' Haras de Bonneval during the upcoming Arqana Breeding Stock Sale from Thursday, Dec. 7 to Monday, Dec. 11 between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. A shuttle service will be available from Arqana to the stud running at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. each day. To book your visit, please see the Aga Khan Studs team in Yard P at Arqana or, alternatively, contact Fanny Cypres on +33 6 88 99 30 93. The post New Aga Khan Stallions On Show During Arqana’s Vente d’Elevage appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

This event has become the highlight of Louisiana-bred racing as the best runners in the state compete for nearly $1 million in purse money.View the full article

In a release issued Dec. 6, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul expressed excitement that the 2024 Belmont Stakes (G1) will be held at Saratoga Race Course to allow for the uninterrupted construction at Belmont Park.View the full article