The California Thoroughbred Trainers reported Feb. 16 that San Luis Rey Downs will close as a Thoroughbred training center effective March 15.
The CTT said it received word from owner Magna Entertainment Corp., which cited economic circumstances for the decision.
The trainers’ organization said reallocation of stabling and vanning funds from Southern California Off-Track Wagering Inc. “contributed to the economic conditions” that led to the decision to shutter San Luis Rey Downs.
The funds had been distributed to Santa Anita Park, Hollywood Park, Fairplex Park, and San Luis Rey Downs. The CTT said a SCOTWINC committee in 2009 voted to cease funding off-site stabling at Fairplex and San Luis Rey Downs, so Fairplex closed its stable area to off-site stabling.
Up to 1.25% of pari-mutuel handle from satellite wagering in Southern and Northern California goes to the stabling and vanning fund. The CTT said it recently formed a “strong working relationship” with the Thoroughbred Owners of California and plans to discuss “a potential resolution” to the San Luis Rey Downs shutdown.