The three Thoroughbred racetracks in Texas received a directive to cease operations from the Texas Racing Commission overnight Monday after the Legislative Board of the state Senate did not authorize funds to the industry prior to a midnight deadline. The decision came on the heels of the Commission's vote to permit historical race wagering machines, a debated form of pari-mutuel wagering.
“After an entire summer with the cloud of a shutdown hanging over the industry's head, I am bewildered that certain members of the Texas Senate appear to have blocked the release of essential funds to the Texas Racing Commission,” said Andrea B. Young, President of Sam Houston Race Park in a statement. “We thank our friends in the Legislature and other branches of government who have fought to protect the Texas racing industry and the hard-working individuals it employs.”
Young highlighted the potential job loss associated with a prolonged closure of racing in the state, calling upon state legislators to take action.
“The legislature did not intend this result, which will now shutter Texas racing facilities, putting thousands of jobs at risk,” she continued. “We believe that this result is irresponsible. We urge the Lieutenant Governor to stand up for 36,000 jobs now before this goes any further. In the meantime, we will continue to examine our legal options. We plan to continue our fight for all the hardworking Texans that make up the Texas Horse industry.”
Retama Park, which is the only track in Texas currently conducting a race meet, remained open for training Tuesday morning with all impending live racing and simulcast events cancelled. Lone Star Park, scheduled to begin a Quarter Horse meet Sept. 18, likewise has put racing operations on hold.
Not a subscriber? Click here to sign up for the daily PDF or alerts.
