BloodHorse.com | Horse Racing News

Safety Alliance to Release Updated Standards

The National Thoroughbred Racing Association Safety and Integrity Alliance will soon release its 2013 code of standards and expects to re-accredit 16 racetracks this year.

Cuomo: Use VLT Revenue for Safety Measures

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo wants to dip into purse accounts to take $1.5 million to $2 million per year for equine safety programs at the state's racetracks.

PA Coalition Focuses on Action Issues

The Pennsylvania Equine Coalition said June 11 it is closer to consensus on "action items" designed to improve the health and safety of equines and humans at racetracks in the state.

Industry Poised to Make Strides in Aftercare

The Thoroughbred industry is making substantial strides in the area of racehorse aftercare programs -- some very public and others behind the scenes.

Alliance Will Stay the Course, Waldrop Says

The National Thoroughbred Racing Association Safety and Integrity Alliance is having an impact on the racing industry despite some misconceptions and will not be derailed, NTRA president Alex Waldrop said.

Pimlico Reaccredited by NTRA Safety Alliance

Pimlico Race Course, which will host the Preakness Stakes (gr. I) May 21, has been reaccredited by the National Thoroughbred Racing Association Safety and Integrity Alliance.

NTRA, Jockey Club Respond to Congressmen

The National Thoroughbred Racing Association and Jockey Club have released their responses to two members of Congress requesting an update on steps the horse racing industry has taken to address equine health and safety.

Read Responses

PNGI Tracks Adopt Anti-Slaughter Policy

Penn National Gaming Inc. has adopted a policy that punishes horsemen that sell horses for slaughter.

AHC Sets Agenda for Horse Welfare Forum

The American Horse Council is gearing up for what it calls "the most inclusive presentation on safety and welfare ever assembled" -- a June 16 forum on equine welfare.

Belmont Park in Midst of Accreditation Review

As officials in Maryland work to achieve full accreditation for Pimlico Race Course through the National Thoroughbred Racing Association Safety and Integrity Alliance, the New York Racing Association is anticipating alliance approval for Belmont Park before the June 6 Belmont Stakes (gr. I).

Pimlico Gets 'Provisional' Accreditation

Pimlico Race Course has received "provisional" accreditation from the National Thoroughbred Racing Association Safety and Integrity Alliance because not all documents tied to an inspection were submitted. The documents deal with drug-testing and compliance standards; officials said there are no safety issues at the track.

Safety Accreditation a Long-Haul Process

The accreditation of Churchill Downs by the National Thoroughbred Racing Association Safety and Integrity Alliance is being called a major accomplishment by the officials involved, but they also acknowledge it's just the beginning. Safety and integrity standards will change, and compliance will be reviewed at least every two years.

National HBPA Sets Convention Agenda

The National Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association will discuss aftercare for racehorses, equine medication and drug-testing thresholds, and synthetic surfaces during its winter convention Jan. 30-Feb. 2 in Hollywood, Fla.

Officials: New Alliance Means Business

Officials indicated Dec. 11 the push for equine safety and racing industry integrity is serious business, and they called on stakeholders to support the plan.

Winners Federation Plans 2009 Conference

The Winners Federation, which advocates for healthy lifestyle choices by racetrack workers, plans to re-establish a professional development and informational conference in 2009.

NTRA Seeks Director for New Alliance

A week after announcing a major safety and integrity initiative for horse racing, the National Thoroughbred Racing Association board of directors said it has launched a national search for an executive director to spearhead the endeavor.

MEC Adopts Anti-Slaughter Policy

Magna Entertainment Corp. has formally adopted a company-wide policy promoting the humane treatment of racehorses, the company announced Oct. 10.

NTRA: 'Safety' Train to Leave Station

The National Thoroughbred Racing Association will unveil its Safety and Integrity Initiative Oct. 15 and fully expects broad industry cooperation given progress made thus far, officials said Oct. 1.

NTRA Hopes to Fast-Track Safety Plan

The National Thoroughbred Racing Association hopes to have a long-term implementation plan for uniform equine health and safety measures in place within 30 days.

TOBA Panel Targeting Adoption of Rules

The Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association is hoping its network of members in various states is effective at lobbying regulators to adopt recommendations for rules in the area of equine health and safety.