Both the Keeneland Association and the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA) have joined the Coalition for Horse Racing Integrity in support of HR 3084, it was announced Thursday. The act, filed by Congressmen Andy Barr (R-KY) and Paul Tonko (D-NY) in July, aims to establish a federal, non-governmental racing regulatory organization headed by the United States Anti-Doping Agency.
Keeneland issued the following statement:
In a year that our industry and all of our participants are enjoying incredible excitement in racing, medication issues continue to dominate discussions. It is evident that a collective resolution to medication issues is essential for racing to continue the momentum we are experiencing in this historic year.
With the lack of action among many state jurisdictions with regard to uniform medication policies, it is apparent that federal legislation is necessary to provide our industry with a level playing field across all borders as well as adequate testing measures to ensure the integrity of our sport. That is why Keeneland is proud to publicly support HR 3084 and become a member of the Coalition for Horse Racing Integrity.
We have listened to our racing patrons and horsemen, all of whom deserve uniform standards across all jurisdictions which provide a product to our fans that will allow the sport to grow and thrive.
As the world's leading marketplace for Thoroughbreds, we have also listened to our sales clients, domestically and internationally, and this legislation is essential to providing the uniformity and transparency that our consignors and buyers want and deserve.
We have already seen the positive effects of the constructive dialogue that has resulted from the filing of this legislation, and look forward to continuing to work with all members of our industry on this critical initiative so important for the future vitality of our sport.
The Coalition for Horse Racing Integrity issued its own statement in response to Keeneland's announcement.
“The addition of one of the nation's premier Thoroughbred race tracks to the Coalition for Horse Racing Integrity is another welcome demonstration of the industry's growing commitment to uniformity,” the statement read. “Our shared goal is to ensure that we have a strong, credible medication oversight system that further ensures the safety of our athletes and enhances the confidence of our participants and fans.”
Keeneland's announcement came on the heels of news that the IFHA had just joined the Coalition for Horse Racing Integrity.
“The whole world has endorsed our efforts,” said Arthur Hancock, a co-founder of the Water Hay Oats Alliance (WHOA). “This is huge. For years and years we have been fighting for clean racing in America. IFHA's support will help us get there.”
International representation in WHOA now numbers 85 members.
“Creating a uniform system for the regulation of medications in American horse racing is of critical importance,” said Louis Romanet, chairman of the IFHA. “The international horse racing community must work together if we are to achieve high standards in testing and enforcement of our equine athletes to protect their health and ensure a safe environment.
He continued, “Since its creation, the IFHA has sought to protect the integrity, quality and fairness of horse racing worldwide in the interest of both the horses and the general public. We believe that the goal of this legislation is very much in line with our mission.”
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