North Will Not Request Thoroughbred Meet License, For Now

Press Release from the CHRB (December 16, 2024)

After extensive consultation and discussion with, and among, Golden State Racing, California Authority of Racing Fairs, Alameda County Fair, Thoroughbred Owners of California, California Thoroughbred Trainers, the California Horse Racing Board and others, the consensus is that the industry should not pursue the Golden State Racing license on Thursday at the CHRB meeting.

The mounting economic challenges felt throughout horseracing and inconsistent handle in Northern California compel the conclusion that, for now, Pleasanton operating as a training facility and Southern California running races for horses stabled there would be in the best interests of both Northern California and Southern California.

While this conclusion is undoubtedly disappointing to nearly everyone involved and presents its own challenges, the CHRB views this arrangement as temporary, as well as an opportunity for all stakeholders to work together to pursue purse enhancements that are essential for California racing to remain competitive with the rest of the country. We are hopeful that should such supplements be realized, California will once again support two thriving thoroughbred circuits and offer purses equal to or above those in other states.

Currently California offers beautiful venues, unparalleled safety protocols, and what we believe to be the best equine testing and research lab in the country at UC Davis. Enhanced purses would make horse racing in the state second to none.  In the meantime, we will focus on purses, field size, and safety at all tracks in California, as well as ensuring a successful traditional fair circuit next summer. 

Link to Press Release