TRAO HEADLINES
The Jockey Club Launches Registry Mobile Site
Thoroughbred owners and breeders who use The Jockey Club’s Interactive RegistrationTM (IR) service can now access two of the most popular features — the Online Names Book and the list of recently released names — on their smart phones following the launch of mobile.registry.jockeyclub.com.
“These two naming services represent the initial step in the development of Registry mobile, and we look forward to introducing additional features and services in support of the growing mobile web access market,” said Matt Iuliano, The Jockey Club’s executive vice president and executive director.
The Online Names Book is a searchable list of approximately 450,000 Thoroughbred names in active use. The list of recently released names comprises approximately 40,000 names released from active use on January 1 each year. Both resources are updated as names are claimed so that customers are always looking at the most current information.
To access Registry mobile, simply go to mobile.registry.jockeyclub.com or click on the link found at registry.jockeyclub.com.
The Jockey Club, founded in 1894 and dedicated to the improvement of Thoroughbred breeding and racing, is the breed registry for North American Thoroughbreds. In fulfillment of its mission, The Jockey Club provides support and leadership on a wide range of important industry initiatives and it serves the information and technology needs of owners, breeders, media, fans and farms, among others. Additional information is available at jockeyclub.com.
Remington Park Track Committee Members
The 2010 Remington Park Track Committee members are:
Jobe Caster
Roger Engel
Veronica Griggs
Randy Morse
Kenny Nolen
Randy Oberlander
Joe Offolter
TRAO Scholarship Program
THOROUGHBRED RACING ASSOCIATION OF OKLAHOMA
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
ELIGIBILITY
Applicants must be a current year licensed; Owner, Trainer, Assistant Trainer, or dependant of the above mentioned. (Dependants must be under the age of 20 at time of request) Owner, Trainer, or Assistant Trainers must be full time residents of Oklahoma and attending an Oklahoma institution of higher education. (Dependants may attend an out-of-state higher education institution, but the guardian licensee must meet the in-state domicile requirements.
DETERMINATION/CRITERIA
1. Attend an Oklahoma accredited college/university/trade-school
2. Dependant applicants must provide his/her high school transcripts with application for scholarship assistance. High School G.P.A. of 2.0 or higher accepted (‘C’ Average). (Lower G.P.A. applicants must complete two (2) full semesters and obtain a 2.0 G.P.A. to become eligible for the TRAO program
3. Dependants must complete the ACT (or equivalent) exam for assistance
4. G.P.A. of 2.0 must be kept to ensure continued assistance (First year recipients must complete one (1) semester prior to receiving financial assistance from TRAO. Upon completion of the semester and the G.P.A. requirement is met, student will be reimbursed for said semester)
5. TRAO Benevolence Board approves and/or denies all applicants
6. All Scholarship Assistance is paid directly to the educational institution
7. Scholarship Assistance may be used for any owed amount to the institution (i.e., tuition, books, etc.)
8. TRAO members (not dependants) are eligible for on-line classes from an Oklahoma institution (same criteria as above will be required)
SCHOLARSHIP TYPES
1. GENERAL SCHOLARSHIP: Five (5) $1,500 scholarships will be made available on a first come, first approved basis. Each applicant will be eligible for a period no longer than eight (8) semesters
2. OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY: One (1) $2,000 annual contribution to the Oklahoma State University, School of Veterinary Medicine, General Scholarship Program
3. INDUSTRY EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP: One (1) $500 grant for racing industry representatives for continuing education. This grant program would be individually approved on a request basis. (one time grant per individual)
Protocol for stable gate
1.Ask for OHRC License.
2. Have them fill out an in-slip (work-n-goes do not have to fill out a slip).
3 Ask where they are coming from-If they are coming from out of state, ask for a health certificate, which is dated within the last 30 days and has Remington Park as their destination.
4. Ask for coggins and piroplasmosis documents (copies are fine), for all horses being transported. Documents must be dated within the last 12 months.
5. Count horses on trailer. Head count must be the same # as horses listed on in-slip, coggins and piroplasmosis test you have in hand.
6. Horses names on in-slip must match names on all documents.
Equine Piroplasmosis Test Required in Oklahoma
ATTENTION HORSEMEN
Attached are tremendously important updates that concern all Oklahoma horsemen transporting and racing horses at Oklahoma racetracks.
• The Oklahoma Horse Racing Commission (OHRC) upon advice from the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture has instituted an OHRC Directive effective essentially for thoroughbreds July 19, 2010. All horses entering an Oklahoma racetrack must have a negative Equine Piroplasmosis (EP) test to enter the stable area. The OHRC Directive will go into effect August 1, 2010, but Remington Park will require the negative tests commencing upon the opening of their stable area. The negative tests required are as follows; Theileria Equi & Babesia Caballi These negative tests will be valid for 365 days, just as a Coggins test. (it is recommended that the test samples also include the tattoo number of the horse) Please contact your practicing veterinarian or the OHRC if you have any questions. These requirements are in effect for all horses entering a racetrack. This will include stable ponies. It was reported by the OHRC that both Louisiana and Texas will be adopting similar testing standards in the near future. Currently, Colorado and New Mexico have testing requirements in place.
• Oklahoma racetracks will begin enforcing immediately the following rules; All horses entering a racetrack from outside the State of Oklahoma will be required to have a current Health Certificate (written within 30 days) and current negative Coggins test for the horses arriving. The Health Certificate must have the correct departing and arriving location. This long standing requirement is for horses traveling Inter-State only.
• All horses being transported within (Intra-State) the State of Oklahoma are NOT required to have a Health Certificate. But, they are required to have at minimum, a copy of the horses’ current negative Coggins test. This is a long standing law, and is currently being enforced by law enforcement. All horses arriving at the stable gate will have to have a copy of their current negative Coggins test with them. Telling stable security that the Coggins is in the Racing Office will NOT work. A copy of the negative Coggins test MUST accompany the horse(s) at the stable gate.
THE ABOVE CRITERIA MUST BE MET FOR THE HORSE(S) TO ENTER AN OKLAHOMA RACETRACK
For further information, please contact the following:
Oklahoma Horse Racing Commission Dr. Rudy Garrison
www.ohrc.org
Oklahoma Department of Agriculture Dr. Becky Brewer-Walker
www.oda.state.ok.us
Please Take The Time To Contact Governor Henry In Support of This Legilation Now
Now is the time communicate to the Governor’s office in regards to HB 3202 (teeth floating bill).
The bill should reach the Governor’s desk on Thursday, and he is likely to take action quickly in order to reduce the amount of time that his office takes calls. This is the final leg so please do this for the sake of the Oklahoma horse industry.
There are three ways in which to communicate with Governor Henry on this issue, and they are listed below.
Choose AT LEAST one way in which to ask the governor to SIGN HB 3202.
1. Phone Gov. Henry’s office at 405-521-2342. A staffer will answer the phone; they are ONLY interested in you asking the Governor to SIGN HB 3202. Be polite (she is merely keeping a tally, and is not interested in your personal perspective or why you want him to sign it, just that you want him to sign it).
2. Send Gov. Henry an email, using the below website:
http://www.governor.state.ok.us/contact.php
Click on link “Message to the Governor”
Fill out the required form information. In “Topic” field, fill in with “SIGN HB 3202”
In “Message” field, feel free to briefly state who you are, what your business is, and why you want the Governor to sign the bill. BE COURTEOUS & POSITIVE !!
3. Write Governor Henry a handwritten letter with your personal information (per above – keeping a professional tone) in the body of the one page letter, and send to:
Gov. Brad Henry
2300 N LINCOLN BLVD RM 212
OKLAHOMA CITY OK 73105-4801
Please get this done before noon Thursday - we need your help!
Forward this to everyone you know that supports HB 3202 and Text your friends...have everyone call the Governor!!!! This is the final step in making HB3202 a law we as horsemen need to be enacted.
Emergency Import Requirements as of 11/5/09
Equine entering Oklahoma from the following Texas counties:
Kleburg, Brooks, Jim Wells, Kenedy, Nueces and Willacy shall be accompanied by:
Oklahoma Entry Permit (call 405-522-6141)
Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) dated within 10 days of entry
Negative Piroplasmosis cELISA test within 14 days of entry shall carry an original copy of the test or NVSL accession number
Statement on CVI by accredited veterinarian:
“I have inspected these animals, they do not originate from an Equine Piroplasmosis quarantined area, do not display clinical signs of Equine Piroplasmosis, were inspected for ticks, including ear ticks, and were treated for ticks at the time of the inspection."
CVI shall include complete information on origin and destination of horse and the veterinarian
Equine Piroplasmosis – Current Update
Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry
Equine Piroplasmosis (EP) is a blood-borne protozoan infection caused by Babesia caballi or Babesia equi (also known as Theileria equi). It affects horses, donkeys, mules, and zebras. The disease is spread by ticks or transfer of blood through shared needles, equipment and transfusions. There is evidence of vertical transmission from an infected dam to foal.
The clinical signs of horses infected with EP are vague and varying. The mild form of the disease can cause lack of appetite and/or weakness. More severe cases may show any of the following: fever, anemia, jaundice, swollen abdomen, labored breathing, rough hair coat, red urine, colic, depression or altered gait. Chronic carriers are often asymptomatic. USDA recently completed a study to determine the national seroprevalence of antibodies to B. caballi and B. equi. The survey included serum samples from 35 Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA or Coggins test) laboratories located in 34 states. The EP testing was performed as a blind survey with no link to the identity of the lab or horse. The results of the survey estimate the seroprevalence of B. caballi is 0.054 percent or 54 positive horses per 100,000. The estimate for B. equi is 0.007 percent or 7 positive horses per 100,000. For comparison, an estimate for the national seroprevalence of EIA positive horses is 0.006 or 6 positive horses per 100,000.
There have been four recent incidences of Equine Piroplasmosis in this country. In Florida during 2008, there were 20 horses positive for B. equi on 7 related premises. All of the positive horses were euthanized. In 2009, Missouri had 7 horses positive for B. equi on one premise. Five of these horses were euthanized, two horses were illegally removed from the premise and have not been located. In both incidents, the source was considered to be horses from Mexico involved in unsanctioned racing. Information suggested the disease was transmitted through blood transfusions and sharing of needles among these horses. Tick surveys found no competent tick vectors on the affected premises.
The largest and currently ongoing incident revolves around Texas. This incident to date has uncovered 370 horses positive for B. equi. There are 343 EP positive horses in Texas and 27 positives are located in 12 other states. All of the positive horses originated from the affected premise in Texas and information suggests the disease has been present on this premise for at least several years. Testing over 600 exposed horses to date in 12 states has not found disease transmission other than what occurred on the affected premise. The original source of the infection is unknown but tick vectors have been shown to be the mode of disease transmission on the affected premise.
Beginning January 1, 2010, New Mexico has required a negative EP test on all horses entering a racetrack. Testing in excess of 3,000 horses in New Mexico has resulted in 13 positive for B. equi. There is currently no treatment proven effective in clearing B. equi infection. Research indicates some strains of B. caballi may be cleared with appropriate medication.
What happens when a horse tests positive for EP? The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry (ODAFF) will initiate an epidemiological investigation and issue a quarantine for the positive horse and any potentially exposed horses. Exposed horses are those from the same herd or having recent contact with a positive horse. All exposed horses will be tested for EP before being released from quarantine.
Currently there are only three available options for an EP positive horse:
1. Permanent Quarantine (including isolation and tick control)
2. Euthanasia
3. Export and return to country of origin (if recent import into the U.S.)
What can I do to protect my horse from this disease? To protect a horse that travels infrequently from your home property: ? Test all horses on the property and control movement onto the farm
To protect a horse that travels a lot and is exposed to other horses of unknown status: ? Control tick vector and eliminate potential transfer of blood through shared needles, equipment and transfusions
- To control ticks, combine regular grooming and thorough inspections with use of a spray or bath product labeled effective against ticks and safe for horses
- Testing your horses will give you an accurate assessment of your situation and protections that are necessary
If you have any questions about Equine Piroplasmosis, please contact the State Veterinarian’s office at 405-522-6131.
BRD Contact information
Attention TRAO Members, If you have any questions regarding your Blue Ribbon Downs purse account, please contact:
Choctaw Nation
Jim Urban
918-436-7761 EXT 2112
General Membership Meeting Report
BENEVOLENCE REPORT
The TRAO benevolence program has continued its steady growth in 2009. In 2008, the TRAO benevolence program distributed $243,511 in total payments. Through December 11, 2009, the TRAO benevolence program has distributed over $274,000, and is expected to easily exceed the $300,000 level for the year. That figure will constitute a 19% increase over 2008 and a 43% increase from the 2007 benevolence distribution. The TRAO benevolence program will assist in excess of 185 individuals this year.
The TRAO has sponsored the following in 2009; 1st annual TRAO Health Fair at Remington Park, Race Track Chaplaincy at all 4 racetracks in Oklahoma, the children’s Christmas party at BRD and the 2009 Equestrian Special Olympics in Stillwater, Oklahoma. The annual Thanksgiving Dinner and Halloween party at Remington Park. The combined total attendance for both functions was over 350 people. The TRAO also supplied over 50 bridles throughout the State for TRAO sponsored ‘TRAO Race of the Week’ and over 20 stable employees’ were rewarded for their excellent work and received the ‘TRAO Stable Employee of the Week’.
TRAO MEMBERSHIP
The continued goal by the TRAO to reduce the number of individuals that choose to exercise their right to opt-out of the TRAO program has continued to go down. For example; there were 77 opt-outs at Remington Park alone in 2007. In 2009, there are a total of only 64 opt-outs Statewide. We currently have a membership rate of over 97%.
2009 TRAO ELECTIONS
In 2009, the TRAO conducted an election for 3 year terms for President and Board of Directors. The process began in March with a General Nominating meeting at WRD and concluded with the ballot counting in July. The independent account firm of Lewis Pond and Associates conducted the officiating of the election (oversight, verifying membership roster, mailing of ballots, counting of ballots and certifying the election results) There were a total of 1,744 ballots mailed. There were 30 ballots returned for insufficient address. That equates to 1,714 ballots to members, of which, 396 ballots were returned. Of the 396 returned ballots, only 6 were not counted not counted by the auditor do to various reasons (un-verifiable to membership list, late postmark, write-in candidate and un-signed ballots). 390 ballots were counted and that means your election had a 22.75% participation rate.
REMINGTON PARK
Remington Park will be owned and operated by Global Gaming Solutions RP, LLC January 1, 2010. The transfer from MEC will take place at the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve. Global Gaming has been wonderful to work with and the TRAO anticipates a fantastic working relationship with them. Remington Park will be eligible for an additional 50 electronic games in 2010 and those games will be in operation on January 1st, giving Remington Park a total of 750 electronic games.
In 2009, the total average purse through December 7th is; $23,377. The meet total for 2008 was $22,844. That is an increase of 2%. There was not a purse increase in 2009, the 2% increase in total average is accessed to the types of races made and carded for 2009. (Predominantly OK Bred participation and OK Bred races)
Average daily handle for Remington Park all sources for 2009 is; $530,000+. We are currently facing an overall slide in all pari-mutuel revenue. All sources are down an average of 9.75% from 2008.
Thoroughbred purses in 2010 will once again receive 90% of the simulcast revenues.
WILL ROGERS DOWNS
Will Rogers Downs will conduct a straight thoroughbred meet in 2010. WRD will conduct a minimum of 320 races. The projected purse structure will be identical as 2009 if the gaming trends hold steady. The purses at WRD are overwhelmingly supported by the Participating Tribal Fund (PTF). The PTF fund is down over 35% from a year ago.
WRD has once again has removed their surface and done a base inspection on their track. In addition, WRD has incorporated more sand into their racing surface to help maintain a better cold weather product.
Thoroughbred purses in 2010 will receive 90% of the simulcast revenues. That is an increase from the past when it was divided 45/45/10.
General Membership Meeting
The Oklahoma HBPA/TRAO general membership meeting will be Saturday, December 12 at 11:30 a.m. It will take place at Remington Park in the Eclipse Suite.
Oklahoma Live Race Days for 2010
ALLOTTED LIVE RACE DAYS FOR CY 2010
REMINGTON PARK, OKLAHOMA CITY…..............................117 LIVE PARI-MUTUEL RACE DAYS Magna Entertainment Corporation; Scott Wells, Vice President and General Manager, One Remington Place, Oklahoma City, OK 73111; (405) 424-1000
QUARTER HORSE, APPALOOSA AND PAINT RACE MEETING [50 Race Days]
March 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 18, 19, 20, 21, 25, 26, 27, 28
April 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 15, 16, 17, 18, 22, 23, 24, 25, 29, 30
May 1, 2, 6, 7, 8, 9, 13, 14, 15, 16, 20, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30, 31
THOROUGHBRED RACE MEETING [67 Race Days]
August 20, 21, 22, 23, 27, 28, 29, 30
September 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 24, 25, 26, 27
October 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 15, 16, 17, 18, 22, 23, 24, 25, 29, 30, 31
November 1, 5, 6, 7, 8, 12, 13, 14, 15, 19, 20, 21, 22, 26, 27, 28, 29
December 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 11, 12
FAIR MEADOWS AT TULSA
Tulsa County Public Facilities Authority; Ron Shotts, Director of Racing, P. O. Box 4735, Tulsa, OK 74159; (918) 743-7223
TULSA STATE FAIR.......................…………….………….....34 LIVE PARI-MUTUEL RACE DAYS
THOROUGHBRED, QUARTER HORSE, PAINT AND APPALOOSA RACE MEETING [34 Race Days]
June 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 24, 25, 26, 27
July 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 15, 16, 17, 18, 22, 23, 24, 25
WILL ROGERS DOWNS, L.L.C., CLAREMORE........................60 LIVE PARI-MUTUEL RACE DAYS
Cherokee Nation; Mark Enterline, Consulting General Manager, 20900 S. 4200 Road, Claremore, OK 74019; 918/283-8800
THOROUGHBRED RACE MEETING
[32 Race Days]
March 6, 8, 9, 13, 15, 16, 20, 22, 23, 27, 29, 30
April 3, 5, 6, 10, 12, 13, 17, 19, 20, 24, 26, 27
May 1, 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 15
QUARTER HORSE, PAINT AND APPALOOSA RACE MEETING [28 Race Days]
September 41, 16, 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26
October 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, 24, 29, 30, 31
November 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14
1This is a non-pari-mutuel race day for trials.
TOTAL NUMBER OF REQUESTED CY 2009 LIVE RACE DAYS AS OF 11/18/09
Live Race Days Except Fair Meets
177
Live Days – Fair Meets
34
Total Live Race Days
211
Updated 11/20/09 to reflect dates allotted at 11/19/09 Commission Meeting
Free Health Fair
SCREENINGS WILL INCLUDE:
• BLOOD PRESSURE
• GLUCOSE
• CHOLESTEROL
• BMI
WHERE: CHAPEL
WHEN: WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21.
TIME: 8 A.M. TO 11 A.M.
PLEASE COME BY THE OKLAHOMA HBPA OFFICE TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT,
TIME SLOTS WILL FILL UP FAST!
Sponsored by the Oklahoma HBPA
Remington Park Track Committee Members
The 2009 TRAO Track Committee will be;
Danny Caldwell (Owner)
John Locke
Joe Offolter
Bernell Rhone
Kenny Nolen
Jobe Caster
Larry Frazee
MEC Parent Asks to Sell Remington for $80M
MI Developments, parent company of Magna Entertainment Corp., said Aug. 12 debtors filed a motion seeking court approval to sell MEC-owned Remington Park Racing & Casino in Oklahoma to a third party for $80.25 million pending “higher and better offers.”
The action was revealed in MI Developments’ second-quarter earnings report, which shows net income for the company’s real estate business at $31.3 million, up from $26.3 million for the second quarter of 2008. Revenue dipped slightly to $55.3 million to $55.2 million.
MEC filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy March 5. Thus far, no properties have been sold.
MID earlier announced itself as a “stalking horse” for MEC properties. Though that bid scenario was terminated, MID said Aug. 12 it’s “continuing to evaluate whether to bid on MEC assets” during the course of the bankruptcy process.
MID said it would prevent “fires sales” of any MEC properties, including Santa Anita Park in California.
On Aug. 4, the debtors filed a motion in court to sell real estate in Ocala, Fla., for $5.75 million to an entity related with Fair Enterprise Ltd., which MID calls “part of real estate planning vehicle for the Stronach family.” Frank Stronach is chairman of MEC.
A hearing on the Remington and Ocala land sales has been requested for Aug. 26.
The status of other MEC properties is unknown. The MID earnings report said MEC “has advised the court it is continuing to explore all alternatives with respect to its remaining assets.”
In Ohio, MEC owns Thistledown, which must make a $13-million payment by Sept. 15 as part of its license fee to operate video lottery terminals. If the track’s owner—MEC or another company—fails to do so, it will be fined.
Changes to Race Days to Accomodate Monday Racing at Remington Park
CONDITION BOOK #1
PAGE 34 --- 7TH RACE DAY MONDAY AUGUST 31ST (ENTRIES CLOSE ON SATURDAY AUGUST 29TH)
PAGE 42 --- 12TH RACE DAY FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 11TH (ENTRIES CLOSE ON MONDAY SEPTEMBER 7TH )
PAGE 44 --- 8TH RACE DAY FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 4TH (ENTRIES CLOSE ON MONDAY AUGUST 31ST)
PAGE 52 --- 13TH DAY SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 12TH (ENTRIES CLOSE ON THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 10TH)
Attention Horsemen
Steroids have been banned for horses racing in Oklahoma effective August 18, 2009. During a regular meeting June 18, 2009 in Oklahoma City, the Oklahoma Horse Racing Commission (OHRC) took action to “prohibit the presence of anabolic steroids in a race horse except for the presence of the following at plasma/serum levels below Commission Sanctioned Thresholds:
(a) Stanozolol: 85 pg/ml
(b) Boldenone (Equipoise): 215 pg/ml
(c) Nandrolone: 65 pg/ml
(d) Testosterone: 100 pg/ml
Threshold levels are based on a 60-day withdrawal.” OHRC Executive Director Tino Rieger stated that any violations after the effective date will be penalized and, threshold levels are subject to change when the Racing Medication and Testing Consortium (RMTC) issues its recommendations for levels of prohibited substances.
In other action, the OHRC approved opening the rulemaking process to specify how proceeds from “breakage and unclaimed (pari-mutuel) tickets” are distributed among the various breeds for state-bred awards. The rule amendment will propose that distribution will be proportional to the number of races granted to each breed at each racetrack. Also, staff was directed to present a recommendation at the next OHRC meeting (August 13, 2009) for amending the rules to distribute simulcast-in revenue among the various breeds directly proportional to the simulcast handle on each breed.
Will Rogers Downs has been approved by the OHRC
Will Rogers Downs has been approved by the OHRC to add three (3) additional racing days to the current meet. The added racing days are; May 24th, May 25th & May 26th. Will Rogers Downs has also written a three (3) day condition book to cover the added racing days.
Stimulus Bill Just Signed Inot Law Keeps Bonus Depreciation and Higher Expensing in Place for 2009
The Stimulus Bill just signed into law keeps bonus depreciation and higher expensing in place through 2009. Both tax benefits expired at the end of 2008 but have been reinstated for purchases made in 2009.
Higher Expense Allowance – This tax benefit allows the purchaser of a horse to expense up to $250,000 of the cost of a horse or of most other business property, even if the horse or other business property had been used previously. It need not be new. However, if the total purchases of all eligible property in 2009 reach $800,000, the expense allowance goes down one dollar for each dollar spent on eligible property over $800,000.
Bonus First Year Depreciation – This permits an owner to write off 50% of the cost of a horse purchased and placed into service in 2009 if the original use of the horse starts with the purchaser. The 50% write-off also applies to the cost of almost all other depreciable property that has a depreciation life of 20 years or less if the first use of the property starts with the purchaser. Regular depreciation is also taken on the property after the bonus depreciation has been subtracted.
To illustrate bonus depreciation and expensing, assume that in 2009, a business pays $300,000 for two colts to be used for racing and $50,000 for farm equipment, bringing total purchases to $350,000. The young colts had never been raced or used for any other purpose before the purchase and the farm equipment was brand new. The business would be able to expense $250,000 (as explained above), deduct another $50,000 of bonus depreciation (50% x the $100,000 remaining balance), and take regular depreciation on the $50,000 balance. This could amount to a total deduction in year one of as much as $312,500 of the cost of the two colts and the equipment.
Thomas A. (Tad) Davis, Davis & Harman LLP 1455 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Suite 1200, Washington, DC 20004 (202) 347-2230 - tadavis@davisharman.com
This is for informational purposes only and not intended to take the place of professional tax counsel.
WRD Race Entry Day Changes
ATTENTION HORSEMEN
RACE ENTRY DAY CHANGE EFFECTIVE AFTER MAR. 4TH
ENTRIES FOR MONDAYS WILL BE TAKEN ON FRIDAYS
ENTRIES FOR TUESDAYS WILL BE TAKEN ON SATURDAYS THESE CHANGES CONTINUE THROUGHOUT THE CONDITION BOOK
THIS CHANGE WAS MADE TO COINCIDE WITH THE DAILY RACING FORM SCHEDULE FOR PUBLISHING WRD. WE ARE SORRY FOR ANY INCONVENIENCE THIS MAY HAVE CAUSED YOU.
If you have any questions regarding the change please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Kelly Cathey, Racing Secretary
WILL ROGERS DOWNS
918-283-8815 or Kelly.cathey@cnent.com
Benefits for Horse Industry in Economic Stimulus Bill
President Obama has signed into law the Stimulus Bill, which is intended to provide a jump-start to the U.S. economy. The Stimulus Act continues the bigger write-off for horses and other property purchased and placed in service during 2009. These benefits were part of the 2008 Tax Stimulus bill, but expired at the end of 2008. The Stimulus Bill also includes a few other provisions that may impact horse owners.
Expensing Allowance
The first incentive allows an owner who purchases a horse or other business property and places it in service in 2009 to expense up to $250,000 of the cost. This so-called “Section 179” expensing allowance applies to horses, farm equipment and most other depreciable property. Once total purchases of horses and other eligible property reach $800,000, the expense allowance goes down one dollar for each dollar spent over $800,000.
To illustrate the expensing allowance, assume a horse business purchases $750,000 of depreciable property in 2009, including $650,000 for horses. That business can write off $250,000 on its 2009 tax return and depreciate the balance. If instead, purchases were $900,000, the expense allowance would go down by $100,000. In either case, the amount of the purchases not expensed may also be eligible for bonus depreciation, as explained below.
Bonus Depreciation
The second incentive continues the 50% first-year bonus depreciation for horses and most other depreciable property purchased and placed in service during 2009. It applies to any property that has a depreciable life of 20 years or less. Also, the property must be new, meaning that the original use of the horse or other property must commence with the taxpayer. For a horse to be eligible, it cannot have been used for any purpose before it is purchased.
To illustrate expensing and bonus depreciation, assume that in 2009 an owner pays $500,000 for a colt to be used for racing and $50,000 for other depreciable property, bringing total purchases to $550,000. The young colt had never been raced or used for any other purpose before the purchase. The horse business would be able to expense $250,000 (as explained above), deduct another $150,000 of bonus depreciation (50% of the $300,000 remaining balance), and take regular depreciation on the $150,000 balance.
Other Provisions
State and Local Sales Taxes. The Stimulus Bill provides all taxpayers with a deduction for state and local sales and excises taxes paid on the purchase of new cars, light trucks, and recreational vehicles through 2009. The deduction phases-out for taxpayers with adjusted gross incomes of $125,000 and $250,000 for taxpayers filing a joint return.
NOL Carryback. Current law permits net operating losses (NOLs) to be carried back to the two years before the operating loss occurs and carried forward to the twenty years after the loss. For 2008, the bill would extend the maximum NOL carryback period to five years for small businesses with gross revenue of $15 million or less.
Estimated Tax Payment Relief. The Stimulus Bill reduces the 2009 required estimated tax payments for some small businesses.
Please call the AHC if you have any questions.
TRAO Sponsors "Free" Ice at Will Rogers Downs
TRAO is sponsoring a "free" ice program at Will Rogers Downs. TRAO members that have an in today horse will be eligible for the "free" ice. The program will be limited to 50 bags per race day on a first come, first serve basis. Contact the racing office to recieve your ice.
TRAO Election Nominating Meeting
The TRAO election nominating meeting will be held Saturday, March 7 at 10 a.m. The meeting will be held at Will Rogers Downs in the Horseshoe Room. For more information contact the TRAO office at 405-427-8753.
The 2009 Track Comittee for Will Rogers Downs
The 2009 Track Committee for Will Rogers Downs will be;
Zach Armstrong
Jobe Caster
Kari Craddock
Kenny Nolen
John Wartchow
2009 OKHBPA/TRAO General Election Notification
The Oklahoma Horsemen’s Benevolence & Protective Association (OKHBPA) d.b.a The Thoroughbred Racing Association of Oklahoma (TRAO) will be conducting a general election in the spring of 2009. All OKHBPA/TRAO members in good standing have the right to vote as well as nominate an eligible candidate. The general election will consist of an election for; President, five (5) Owner Board members, and five (5) Owner/Trainer Board members.
Article V. Section 2. Paragraph (D) of the TRAO by-laws state;
The Nominating Committee shall hold one or more meetings prior to the close of nominations for the purpose of making its recommendations to the Association’s Board of Directors. In addition, nominations from the floor will be accepted if a nominee receives the endorsement of not less than three (3) members present at the meeting, including the nominator and two (2) seconds, or is accompanied by a petition signed by no fewer than forty (40) members of the Association who are eligible to vote in elections and remain in good standing.
A nominating meeting will be held at Will Rogers Downs in Claremore, Oklahoma when the live meet commences February 28, 2009. The meeting date will be announced over the public address system at Will Rogers Downs and posted on the OKHBPA/TRAO website; www.okhbpa,com , once the date of the nominating meeting is determined.
The nominating committee for the 2009 OKHBPA/TRAO elections consists of the following TRAO members;
Mr. Van French (Owner)
Mr. Boyd Caster (Trainer)
Mr. Randy Oberlander (Trainer)
After the nominating committee makes its recommendations to the TRAO Board of Directors, within fifteen (15) calendar days, the Association will notify each candidate of their nomination. Once the notification and eligibility process is completed, the independent firm designated as the Election Director shall supervise the mailing, opening and counting of the ballots; and certification of the results.
TRAO Meeting held Dec. 6
TRAO GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2008
ECLIPSE ROOM, REMINGTON PARK
REMINGTON PARK 2008/2009
Remington Park has been awarded 67 thoroughbred racing days for 2009. (August 21st through December 13th) Remington Park’s racing application indicated a Thursday through Sunday schedule. The simulcast split in 2009 will once again be 90/10. The 2009 projected average purse is; $24,000. Remington Park will conduct a minimum of 600 thoroughbred races in 2009 for an estimated gross distribution of $14,400,000.
In 2008, the Oklahoma horsemen have seen double digit growth in all purse distribution categories at Remington Park.
Attendance and handle figures for 2008 at Remington Park are mixed. Attendance for the meet through November 30th is up 20.66%. On-Track handle and OTB Parlor handle is up a combined 18.30% while export handle is down 11.00%. Average daily handle on the live Remington Park product is; $579,996. (All Sources, 59 Live Days) The total handle through November 30th; $34,219,774. (All Sources, 59 Live Days)
Remington Park will keep their barn area open for stabling until December 27th, with the last day of training being; December 21st.
WILL ROGERS DOWNS 2009
Will Rogers Downs has been awarded 43 thoroughbred racing days for 2009. (February 28th through May 23rd) The racing schedule in March will be 4 days per week. (Saturday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday) The schedule in April and May will be 3 days a week. (Saturday, Monday, Tuesday) The simulcast split in 2009 will be the same as 2008; 45/45/10. The purse structure at Will Rogers Downs will once again have an increase over the previous year. There will be a 6% increase in 2009.
The racing surface at Will Rogers Downs was again removed to inspect the base at the close of the 2008 race meeting. There were 5 spots that were identified as being soft. The most notable was the persistent soft spot located approximately 75 yards from the finish wire in the middle of the track. All spots were fixed.
The Will Rogers Downs barn area will open on December 15th with charge to horsemen that have stalls allotted to them for the 2009 racing season. Will Rogers Downs has worked diligently with TRAO to assist the Oklahoma thoroughbred horsemen in only having to move twice a year if they so desire.
BLUE RIBBON DOWNS
Blue Ribbon Downs has been awarded 43 racing days in 2009. (July 31st through November 28th) The racing schedule will be 3 days per week. (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) This racing calendar is a drastic reduction from 2008. But, there will be ‘NO’ change in the number of thoroughbred racing opportunities. Blue Ribbon Downs will conduct 134 thoroughbred races.
The estimated daily purse distribution for 2009 at Blue Ribbon Downs will be $16,500. Overnight purse distribution in 2008 at Blue Ribbon Downs was up over 25% when compared to 2007. The simulcast split will be 45/45/10.
Blue Ribbon Downs will close their stable area on December 31st. They will open one day per week for time works and gate schooling for a charge. The amount has not been determined as of yet, but is estimated to be in the $12 to $15 range per horse.
FAIR MEADOWS TULSA
Fair Meadows Tulsa has been awarded 34 live race days for 2009. (June 4th through July 26th) The race week will generally compose of 4 days per week with a couple of 5 race day weeks. The thoroughbreds will average 4 races per day for the meet, with an estimated average purse of; $12,000. The simulcast split in 2009 at Fair Meadows Tulsa will be 80/20.
TRAO NEWS
TRAO BENEVOLENCE:
The TRAO benevolence program has taken off in 2008. Through November, TRAO benevolence has increased by 24% over 2007’s total benevolence distribution. TRAO is committed and striving for further disbursements in 2009 and the coming years. In 2008, TRAO has instituted the ‘FREE’ horsemen’s ice program at Remington Park and has successfully added to our partnership with the Racetrack Chaplaincy of America to offer chaplain services at all 4 racetracks in Oklahoma.
TRAO also was the proud sponsor in 2008 of the following; Flu vaccinations at Remington Park and Blue Ribbon Downs. The annual Thanksgiving Day dinner in the stable kitchen at Remington Park that served over 225 backside employees. And the children’s Christmas party at Blue Ribbon Downs.
Building our program towards the future, the TRAO Board of Directors has commenced working on the establishment of a TRAO sponsored program that would assist Owner/Trainer members and their dependants with offsetting tuition costs for higher education studies. We fully expect that this program will be up and running by the first quarter of 2009.
TRAO MEMBERSHIP:
The success of our benevolence program and the higher purses that we are seeing in Oklahoma has drastically reduced the number of opt-outs in 2008. For example, in 2007 there were a total of 77 opt-outs at Remington Park. This year, that number is reduced to 22. Statewide opt-outs for 2008 is; 72. With a 2008 membership in excess of 1600, that equates to an approximate 96% TRAO membership rate in 2008.
HORSEMEN’S BOOKKEEPER:
TRAO and the OQHRA are working jointly to establish a statewide centralized Horsemen’s Bookkeeper for 2009. The implementation of a centralized bookkeeper would benefit horsemen statewide. This joint endeavor would be owned and operated respectfully by the horsemen.
2009 TRAO ELECTION (NOMINATING COMMITTEE & TIMELINE):
The announcement 2009 TRAO election process will be broadcast over the loud speaker at Remington Park prior to the close of the 2008 meet. In addition, an election notice will be posted at the stable gates of Remington Park and Will Rogers Downs. Per the by-laws of TRAO, notice will also be posted in the TRAO newsletter.
The Nominating Committee will consist of the following three (3) TRAO members; Mr. Van French (Owner), Mr. Boyd Caster (Trainer), and Mr. Randy Oberlander (Trainer).
The election timeline will be as follows;
• Election announcement prior to the close of racing at Remington Park (December 14, 2008)
• A minimum of one (1) nominating meeting to be held at Will Rogers Downs approximately sometime the 3rd week of February, 2009
• At the close of the nominating process, TRAO has fifteen (15) days to notify the candidates and verify their eligibility
• The mailing of the ballots to TRAO members expected to be in the proximity of March 21, 2008
• The ballots will have an estimated counting date by the independent CPA firm during the fourth week in April
The above process closely mirrors the time and timeline of the previous election cycle of 2006.
General Membership Meeting
The Oklahoma HBPA will hold a general membership meeting Saturday, December 6 at 11:30 a.m. The meeting will take place at Remington Park in the Eclipse Room.
2008 Remington Park Earned Purse Revenue Figures
2008 REMINGTON PARK DISTRIBUTION FIGURES
TOTAL MEET DISTRIBUTION $5,834,543
AVERAGE DAILY TOTAL DISTRIBUTION $208,377
TOTAL OVERNIGHT DISTRIBUTION $4,578,665
AVERAGE DAILY OVERNIGHT DISTRIBUTION $163,524
AVERAGE TOTAL PURSE $23,153
AVERAGE OVERNIGHT PURSE $18,169
TOTAL OK BRED DISTRIBUTION (RACING & BREEDING) $1,040,800
AVERAGE STARTERS PER RACE 9.25
TOTAL NUMBER OF LIVE RACES 252
TOTAL NUMBER OF OKLAHOMA BRED RACES 76
PERCENTAGE OF OKLAHOMA BRED RACES 30.16%
TOTAL NUMBER OF TURF RACES 51
AVERAGE NUMBER OF TURF RACES PER DAY 1.82
FIGURES THROUGH 28 LIVE DAYS (OCTOBER 5, 2008)
2008 REMINGTON PARK EARNED PURSE REVENUE FIGURES
2008 PARI-MUTUEL EARNED $3,210,190
2008 GAMING EARNED $6,239,508
2008 TOTAL AVERAGE MONTHLY INCOME EARNED $1,049,966
YEAR-TO-DATE AVERAGE WIN-PER-MACHINE $262.12
REVENUE FIGURES VALID FROM JANUARY 1ST THROUGH OCTOBER 5TH, 2008
Remington Park Increases Purses
THE OKLAHOMA DERBY ALSO WORTH MORE,
OKLAHOMA CITY – Remington Park’s 2008 Thoroughbred Season moves into its middle stages this week with more records established. The 20th Anniversary Season has now been bolstered by an increase for both overnight races and three of the major stakes races still to come, including the Oklahoma Derby.
Beginning with racing this Friday, Sept. 19, all overnight purses will be increased approximately 5-percent. The upward financial offering will bring the daily average purse totals to the $218,000 mark. Remington Park was already well on pace to establish new daily average purse records through the first 16 days of the season, going over the $200,000 plateau for the first time ever.
Additionally the Oklahoma Derby, the track’s marquee thoroughbred event, will now carry a purse of $350,000, a new all-time high for the race to be contested on Sunday, Oct. 19. The derby was originally worth $300,000.
Other stakes events on the Oklahoma Derby undercard have also been increased. The track’s top race for 2-year-olds, the Remington-MEC Mile, will now be worth $125,000. The last major turf stakes for older runners on the calendar, the Remington Green, also carries a purse that has been increased to $125,000.
Both the Remington-MEC Mile and the Remington Green were originally set at $100,000. “Remington Park is very pleased to offer a rare purse increase during the course of our season and we are equally pleased to enhance the stature of our top stakes events, including the now $350,000 Oklahoma Derby,” said track vice president and general manager Scott Wells. “Our racing product and our casino business are flourishing at this time, affording Remington Park the opportunity to increase purses and continue growth.”
On-track pari-mutuel handle through the first four weekends of the season is up six percent on average compared to the 2007 season. Attendance on live racing dates is currently up 17-percent on average compared to last year.
The 2008 Remington Park Thoroughbred Season will mark the third consecutive year that new records for daily purses have been established.
The $350,000 Oklahoma Derby on Oct. 19 is at 1-1/8 miles over the main track. It was won last year by Kindred Thoroughbreds’ Going Ballistic. He became the first horse to win the Remington-MEC Mile at age two and then return the next year to win the Oklahoma Derby.
The $125,000 Remington-MEC Mile was won last year by Golden Yank. The race is growing as a major late season 2-year-old event for those with aspirations toward the classic 3-year-old races the next year.
Remington Park races at 6:30 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Afternoon racing will be offered on Sundays at 1:30 p.m. All times are central. The 2008 Thoroughbred Season continues thru Dec. 14.
A division of MEC, Magna Entertainment Corp., Remington Park is Oklahoma City’s only Racetrack & Casino, located at the junction of Interstates 35 & 44, in the heart of the Oklahoma City Adventure District. For more information, reservations and group bookings please call 405-424-1000, 866-456-9880 or visit remingtonpark.com.
Remington Park Track Committee
The Thoroughbred Racing Association of Oklahoma (TRAO) will have the following track committee members for the 2008 race meeting at Remington Park. The members are as follows;
Boyd Caster
Donnie Von Hemel
Joe Offolter
Kenny Nolen
Larry Frazee
Martin Lazano
Randy Oberlander
The track committee will meet every other Friday at noon.
Shawnee Proposol Update
June 10, 2008
Dear TRAO Member:
The public comment period regarding the proposed development by the Shawnee Tribe near Remington Park has come to end. Your efforts in voicing your opinion in order to protect the thoroughbred industry in Oklahoma are to be applauded. Our efforts have paid off! Oklahoma elected officials came out overwhelmingly against the proposed Shawnee development. The final outcome may not be known for months or even years but the chances of this proposal becoming a reality have been lessened considerably.
Three weeks ago, TRAO asked our members to voice their opposition of the Shawnee proposal to the respective elected officials and government agencies. As previously stated, those officials responded in a manner that will hopefully ensure the thoroughbred industry in Oklahoma remains viable. TRAO now asks that you write those same elected officials and thank them for their support of our industry.
The following officials came out in opposition to the Shawnee development and supported us.
Thank you,
Joe Lucas, President Thoroughbred Racing Association of Oklahoma
Governor Brad Henry
(405)521-3353(Fax)
www.governor.state.ok.us
Oklahoma City Mayor, Mick Cornett
(405) 297-2424
(405) 297-3759 Fax
mayor@okc.gov
Senator Tom Coburn
> (202) 224-5754
(202) 224-6008 Fax
www.coburn.senate.gov
Senator James Inhofe
(202) 224-4721
(202) 228-0380 Fax
www.inhofe.senate.gov
Representative Tom Cole
(202) 225-6165
(202) 225-3512 Fax
www.house.gov/cole
Representative Mary Fallin
(202) 225-2132
(202) 226-1463 Fax
www.fallin.house.gov
Representative Frank Lucas
(202) 225-5565
(202) 225-8698 Fax
www.house.gov/lucas
2008 WILL ROGERS DOWNS THOROUGHBRED RECAP
THOROUGHBRED OVERNIGHT PURSE DISTRIBUTION $4,389,000
OKLAHOMA BRED RESTRICTED RACE DISTRIBUTION $263,000
OKLAHOMA BRED PLUS MONEY DISTRIBUTION $263,540
TOTAL THOROUGHBRED PURSE DISTRIBUTION $4,915,540
DAILY AVERAGE OVERNIGHT DISTRIBUTION $104,500
DAILY AVG. OKLAHOMA BRED RESTRICTED DISTRIBUTION $6,262
DAILY AVG. OKLAHOMA BRED PLUS DISTRIBUTION $6,275
DAILY AVERAGE TOTAL DISTRIBUTION $117,037
TOTAL NUMBER OF THOROUGHBRED RACES 352
AVERAGE OVERNIGHT PURSE $12,469
AVERAGE PURSE INCLUDING OK BRED FUNDING $13,965
TOTAL NUMBER OF OKLAHOMA BRED RACES 93
AVERAGE NUMBER OF OKLAHOMA BRED RACES DAILY 2.21
AVERAGE THOROUGHBRED STARTING FIELD SIZE 9.55
TOTAL NUMBER OF THOROUGHBRED CLAIMS 59
TOTAL AMOUNT OF CLAIMED THOROUGHBRED HORSES $288,500
AVERAGE THOROUGHBRED CLAIM AMOUNT $4,890
2008 WILL ROGERS DOWNS ON-TRACK HANDLE $1,330,678
2008 EXPORT ON WILL ROGERS DOWNS $8,908,300
2008 TOTAL HANDLE ON WILL ROGERS DOWNS $10,238,978
2008 DAILY AVERAGE TOTAL HANDLE $243,785
INCREASE OVER 2007 EXPORT 126.80%
INCREASE OVER 2007 TOTAL HANDLE 100.40%
CATOSTROPHIC EUTHANIZED INJURIES ON-TRACK 0
Track Committee at FMT
The first Track Committee meeting date will be published as soon as the date is set.
Members include:
Boyd Castor
Roger Engel
Mike Teel
John Wartchow
OHRC MEDICATION DIRECTIVE CHANGE
REMINDER HORSEMEN:
STARTING JUNE 2, 2008 THE MAXIMUM LEVEL OF BANAMINE IN PLASMA WILL BE 100 NG/MIL. THIS LEVEL INDICATES A REUDUCTION FROM THE PREVIOUS ACCEPTABLE LEVEL OF 250 NG/MIL.
Appreciation Lunch at Will Rogers Downs
Attention Horsemen: Will Rogers Downs will be sponsoring a "Horsemen's Appreciation" lunch Wednesday, May 14 at 12 p.m.
OKLAHOMA BREEDER AWARD FUNDING
Recently, erroneous statements have been circulating regarding the amount of revenue that will be contributed to the Oklahoma Bred program in 2008. In turn, this has caused some horsemen to question what to expect in the year ahead.
First of all, the amount of revenue going to the Oklahoma Bred program from gaming machines in 2008 is expected to be the same or better than in 2007 (which was a 60% increase from the previous year). The following information will attempt to explain the process used to fund the state breeder’s awards.
In 2006, the OHBPA/TRAO purse committee set the initial percent of gaming revenue going towards the state breeder fund at 10.5%. This percentage was to be used for all (3) racetracks and the Participating Tribal Funds (PTF) in an effort to fund the total amount of revenue we had hoped our state breeder awards would offer during the 2007 race meets.
However, in July of 2007 the Oklahoma Horse Racing Commission notified horsemen that the Attorney General’s office had determined the revenue being earned from the gaming machines located at participating tribal casinos in the Tulsa area (PTF) could not be used to fund breeder awards. Because of the AG’s ruling, the OHBPA/TRAO could no longer dedicate revenue to the breeder fund from the PTF account and additional revenue would be needed if we were to reach the level of breeder awards we had hoped to see in 2007. The OHBPA/TRAO, OTA and OQHRA have joined forces to pass legislation that will remove this restriction and expect that measure to be approved during the 2008 legislative session.
This meant the OHBPA/TRAO purse committee had to find a means to offset this reduction in breeder award revenue or risk a “forced” reduction in breeder awards during Remington Park’s 2007 race meet. To accomplish this, the OHBPA/TRAO instructed the OHRC to increase the 10.5% initially established to 33% until the end of 2007. When purse monies and breeder awards had actually been distributed to all participating horsemen at RP in 2007, the OHRC indicated a balance of approximately $340,000 remained available in the state breeder fund at RP. This amount will be carried over to the 2008 RP race meet.
In an attempt to sufficiently fund RP’s 2008 breeder awards to the same level as 2007, the OHBPA/TRAO conferred with the OTA, RP management and the OHRC staff. After evaluating the information they had obtained, the purse committee felt that 12% would accomplish this goal. This decision was based, in part, on the above mentioned carryover being available and because of the increase in simulcast revenue that Thoroughbred horsemen gained at RP in 2008 (from 80% to 90%). However, if 12% proves to be insufficient, the OHBPA/TRAO intends to adjust this percentage to maintain the same levels awarded during the 2007 race meet.
To maintain the breeder awards at Will Rogers Downs in 2008, similar adjustments were also necessary. Once again, the loss of PTF revenue to fund the breeder awards at WRD played a large role in the decision to adjust the percentage the purse committee had previously chosen. To insure sufficient funding was available, the OHBPA/TRAO notified the OHRC (in the fall of 2007) of its wish to increase the percentage going to the breeder fund at WRD from 10.5% to 20% until further notice. We anticipate this percentage will continue though the end of the 2008 race meet. Once the exact amounts of breeder awards at WRD have been distributed in 2008, the situation there will be re-evaluated and a percentage change may take place for the remainder of the year.
Fair Meadows has no gaming machines on site and must therefore rely on pari-mutuel wagering and/or PTF revenue to support its purse structure. As previously mentioned, state law no longer allows PTF revenue to be used to fund breeder awards. So for now, 100% of PTF revenue must go to the “purse account” at FMT and any breeder awards must be funded solely from pari-mutuel wagering. As at all Oklahoma racetracks, “uncashed tickets” and “breakage on wagers” still goes towards funding the state breeder program. This was the only means breeder awards were funded prior to the passage of gaming legislation. Fortunately, Thoroughbreds now receive 80% of FMT’s simulcast revenue to assist in partially offsetting this deficit for our participating horsemen at FMT.
Just as Remington Park, the percent of revenue now being dedicated to the limited number of races offered to Thoroughbred horsemen at Blue Ribbon Downs remains at 12% for 2008. We will continue to monitor BRD’s breeder account and make any necessary adjustments to ensure the breeder awards seen there in 2007 are realized again in 2008.
There are several unknown quantities used to establish the amount of revenue needed to fund the states breeder program and this process is obviously not an exact science. In addition to changing laws and fluctuating gaming revenues, the OHRC is assigned the task of estimating the number of Oklahoma breds who might run 1st, 2nd and 3rd in “open races” and at what “level of competition” they will do so. This process takes place a year in advance and has proven to be most difficult to establish for many years now.
As such, until the available revenue streams become more predictable, we anticipate the actual “percentage figure” going to the breeder funds may be adjusted from time to time at each track. But again, our goal is for the amount of revenue dedicated to the respective breeder award accounts to remain at the same levels in 2008 as they were in 2007.
The OHBPA/TRAO will continue to do everything in its power to ensure funding for the Oklahoma bred program continues to be competitive with other states in our region and will work closely with the OTA towards achieving this common goal.
Please feel free to contact our office if you have any questions regarding this matter.
Respectfully,
Joe Lucas,
President
OHBPA/TRAO
Tribal OTB Update
In a recent correspondence sent to the National HBPA, a spokesperson for Choctaw Racing Services (CRS) made statements indicating the Thoroughbred horsemen of Oklahoma have made unreasonable demands to tribal OTB disseminators in Oklahoma. These so called “demands” are apparently in reference to the percent of handle the OHBPA feels tribal OTB’s should contribute to horsemen’s purses in Oklahoma from interstate simulcast activities. In response, the OHBPA once again offers its position regarding this issue.
Simply put, the OHBPA believes tribal OTB’s should contribute the same percent of revenue to Oklahoma Thoroughbred purses as any licensed racetrack OTB is required, by law, to pay our horsemen from interstate simulcast wagering. Even though this Oklahoma law may not apply to tribal OTB’s the OHBPA feels it is not irrational to expect tribal OTB operations to contribute the same percentage of revenue from such wagering activities as do the racetrack OTB’s located in Oklahoma.
It is our understanding that CRS and Las Vegas Disseminating Co. (LVDC) are the only two disseminators supplying interstate simulcast signals to tribal OTB’s in Oklahoma at this time. Unfortunately, there are no written agreements currently in place between the OHBPA and these companies regarding interstate simulcast activities at Oklahoma tribal OTB’s.
We remain hopeful agreements that further protect live racing in Oklahoma will someday be reached between the Thoroughbred horsemen of our state and the various tribal OTB’s who operate here.
Executive Director Update
As many of you already know, the Oklahoma Horsemen’s Benevolent & Protective Association - DBA as the Thoroughbred Racing Association of Oklahoma (TRAO) retained Justin Cassity as its interim Executive Director in July of 2007. We are happy to announce Justin will continue his employment with the organization and has been retained as the TRAO's official Executive Director. Justin’s contacts throughout North America’s racing industry, his knowledge of racing and his contract negotiating experience with track management and simulcast disseminators make him a valuable asset to the association and its membership. Justin will be at Will Rogers Downs when the race meet begins in February.
2008 Track Reports
REMINGTON PARK
Remington Park (RP) has been awarded 67 Thoroughbred race days for 2008 (August 21st through December 14th). Live racing will be conducted Thursday through Sunday, except for an additional Labor Day card and no live racing on Thanksgiving Day.
After hearing evidence presented by the TRAO and OQHRA at the November Oklahoma Horse Racing Commission (OHRC) meeting, Thoroughbred horsemen were awarded a 90% share of Remington Park’s simulcast-in revenue for 2008. This reflects a 10% increase for Thoroughbred’s from years past and will add an estimated $500,000 to Thoroughbred purses and breeder awards each year. The TRAO is expecting total Thoroughbred purse distributions at Remington Park to average $220,000 per day during this fall’s 2008 race meet.
As a result of prior negotiations between the TRAO and Magna Entertainment (MEC), Remington Park has begun the process of building (2) new barns. Construction is expected to be completed prior to the Thoroughbred horsemen’s return in mid-July.
It’s been widely publicized that Remington Park is for sale. However, this is not a situation where Oklahoma’s premier racing facility is not proving to be cost effective for its owner — in fact, it is quite the opposite. MEC is attempting to liquidate one of its more lucrative properties (RP) to assist them in relieving a portion of debt the parent company has accrued through unrelated investment ventures. At this time, it is not known who will operate the facility in 2008 but the TRAO anticipates having a favorable working relationship with whomever it might be to ensure successful and competitive Thoroughbred race meets continue to be offered at Remington Park.
The TRAO is confident the OHRC Board members and staff will do everything within their power to protect the interest of Oklahoma horsemen during any acquisition and/or licensing procedures that may take place in the event Remington Park is sold.
FAIR MEADOWS TULSA
Fair Meadows Tulsa (FMT) has been awarded 32 race days for 2008 (June 5th through July 26th). Live racing will be offered Thursday through Sunday nights, except for certain “mixed breed” trial days.
The TRAO once again lobbied for Thoroughbred horsemen to receive an 80% share of FMT’s simulcast-in revenue. The OQHRA had requested the 50/50 split used in 2006 to be reinstated. After both organizations presented their arguments, the Commission voted for the 80/20 split, implemented in 2007, to remain in place for 2008. As such, the TRAO anticipates Thoroughbred purses to average $75,000 per day, based on the (5) daily Thoroughbred races FMT will average conducting during its 2008 race meet.
WILL ROGERS DOWNS
Will Rogers Downs (WRD) has been awarded 44 race days for 2008 (February 23rd through May 27th) with live racing on Saturday, Monday, and Tuesday, with (8) Thoroughbred races scheduled each day. There will also be two Sunday cards held on March 23rd and May 11th.
Even though the division of simulcast-in revenue at WRD remains at 45% to Thoroughbreds and 55% to “mixed breeds” in 2008, the purse structure for the WRD spring meet reflects a substantial increase from 2007 as total daily purse distribution for Thoroughbreds is expected to reach $120,000 by meets end. The meet will feature (2) $50,000 Thoroughbred stakes races and (2) $35,000 “Classic Preps” for both males and females. Purse increases at WRD was made possible, in part, because of the TRAO’s success in gaining a more favorable percentage of simulcast revenue for Thoroughbred horsemen at Remington Park and Fair Meadows. Besides the obvious benefits horsemen competing at those two tracks will realize, the additional simulcast revenue gained at RP and FMT allowed for a larger portion of the Participating Tribal Funds (PTF) to remain available for the Thoroughbred industry to utilize. This will hopefully provide a means for the TRAO to increase purses to more competitive levels at all racetracks in the state.
Since the 2007 race meet ended, Will Rogers Downs removed, mixed, and screened its track cushion. In addition, the limestone base was tested for density and repairs were made where needed. Afterwards, it was re-tested and given a stamp of approval by an engineering firm before the refurbished sub-base and cushion were re-applied. Additional “containment boards” and silt screens have been placed under the inside rail which should reduce wash-outs during heavy rains. Horsemen began training on the new surface in December with favorable reviews about the new surface. Extensive landscaping projects have also taken place on the backside and infield in hopes of improving various drainage issues of the past.
An area of concern for horsemen at WRD has been the lack of sleeping quarters for our labor force. That concern was somewhat lessened in 2008 as WRD constructed a (26) room dormitory during the off season. Additional dorm rooms, showers, and other backside conveniences are still needed but the addition of (26) rooms were greatly appreciated by participating horsemen.
BLUE RIBBON DOWNS
In addition to a three day meet restricted to “mixed breeds” in March, Blue Ribbon Downs (BRD) has also been awarded 67 race days from August 1st through November 30th that will offer 134 Thoroughbred races. Live racing will be held on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday’s in August, with Monday’s being added to the schedule from September through the end of the meet.
The division of simulcast-in revenue at BRD will remain at 45% to Thoroughbreds and 55% to “mixed breeds” in 2008. The TRAO is estimating an average purse distribution of $9,000 per race for the limited number of Thoroughbred races BRD will offer during its fall meet (average 2 per day). The proposed purse increase at BRD was made possible because of the additional PTF revenue the TRAO anticipates to be available to transfer there. Once again, the ripple effect of the Thoroughbred industry receiving a larger share of simulcast revenue at RP and FMT will be felt by Thoroughbred horsemen who compete at all racetracks in our state.
Obviously, competition from various tribal casinos in the area, who are able to offer their patrons more machines and a variety of card games, has had a negative effect on BRD’s ability to reach its projected gaming revenue levels. This, combined with competition from the Choctaw’s Pocola OTB for area horse players, has lessened the chances of BRD becoming the facility horsemen had hoped for when gaming legislation was approved. On the surface, it appears BRD may also be less than profitable for its owner, Backstretch LLC, who purchased the facility just prior to the gaming measure’s passage in 2004.
Not surprisingly, BRD has been listed for sale by Backstretch LLC, which is owned by the Choctaw Nation. However, at a recent OHRC meeting, BRD General Manager Blaine Story, assured horsemen and the Commission that the race days allotted in 2008 will be conducted as scheduled if the facility is not sold. At this time, it is not certain if potential buyers exist or what the future might hold for the historical facility.
The TRAO remains optimistic “something” can and will be done with BRD that benefits the horsemen of this state, as well as its owner. Regardless who operates the facility in the future, the TRAO is hopeful their management team will be able to increase the revenue its gaming machines are currently generating.
Race and Revenue Source Report
From February through December of 2007, there were 207 days of racing conducted at Oklahoma racetracks for Thoroughbred horsemen to compete in. There were a total 1,230 thoroughbred races offered and nearly $20 million in purses and breeder awards distributed during this time. Remington Park carded one-half of all Thoroughbred races in the state and distributed two-thirds of total purse money. Will Rogers Downs offered 27% of all Thoroughbred races and distributed 20% of the total purse money. Fair Meadows at Tulsa was responsible for 13% of the races as well as 13% of total purses distributed.
Purse money generated by our state racetracks comes from four basic sources:
1. On-track wagering on a track’s live races;
2. Off-track wagering of a track’s live races (simulcast export);
3. Wagering on imported simulcast races from other states (interstate); and
, 4. Electronic gaming.
The percent of purse revenue being generated at each racetrack comes from the following sources:
-------------------------------------------RP----------WRD---------FMT---------BRD
1. Live On-Track-----------------3.9%----------5.3%---------4.9%---------1.7%
2. Live Signal Exported--------5.4%----------1.4%---------1.4%--------0.8%
3. Interstate-in Simulcast-----27.1%-------6.7%---------93.7%-------22.4%
4. Electronic Gaming-----------63.6%------86.6%--------N/A----------75.1%
Note: The percentages of revenue sources shown above do not reflect the effect approximately $4,000,000 of Participating Tribal Funds had on purses at each of the racetracks.
Remington Park Final Purse Report
LIVE MEET STATISTICS
TOTAL MEET DISTRIBUTION $12,788,900
AVERAGE TOTAL DAILY DISTRIBUTION $185,346
AVERAGE DAILY OVERNIGHT DISTRIBUTION $156,957
AVERAGE OVERNIGHT PURSE $16,386
TOTAL OKLAHOMA BRED DISTRIBUTION $1,012,140
AVERAGE DAILY OKLAHOMA BRED DISTRIBUTION $14,669
AVERAGE STARTERS PER RACE 9.34
TOTAL NUMBER LIVE RACES 632
TOTAL NUMBER OF OKLAHOMA BRED RACES 166
PERCENTAGE OF OKLAHOMA BRED RACES 26.3
AVERAGE NUMBER OF DAILY OKLAHOMA BRED RACES 2.41
TOTAL TURF RACES RUN 150
AVERAGE NUMBER OF TURF RACES DAILY 2.17
REVENUE INFORMATION
2007 PARI-MUTUEL EARNED $3,881,031
2007 GAMING EARNED $5,864,994
2007 OKLAHOMA BRED REVENUE FROM GAMING $1,333,996
2007 DAILY AVERAGE WIN PER MACHINE $234.44
Kip Deville Wins NetJets BC Mile (G1,T)
Oklahoma-Bred Kip Deville “loved the soft turf” said jockey Cornelio Velasquez after winning the Breeders’ Cup Mile for IEAH Stables. Bred by Center Hills Farm in Northeastern Oklahoma, the 4-year old gray/roan son of Kipling out of Klondike Kaytie by Encino began his career in November, 2005 at Remington Park. After winning the Grand Prairie Turf Challenge at Lone Star Park in the spring of 2006, he was purchased by IEAH Stables, a partnership that includes: Andrew Cohen, John Cohen, Steve Cobb and Doug Robertson.
Trainer Richard Dutrow, Jr., wasted no time in establishing Kip Deville as a miler to be contended with on the turf. In his first start for Dutrow, he nearly pulled off an upset at 28-1 in the 2006 Colonial Turf Cup. This past winter, Kip Deville won the Kilroe Mile (G1,T) at Santa Anita and the Maker’s Mark (G2,T) at Keeneland. His form tailed off in later starts and he was given a layoff from June to August.
Dutrow declared that Kip Deville was back with a second-place finish his last start in the Woodbine Mile. Although there was concern about the soft going for the Breeders’ Cup Mile, Kip Deville seemed to have no problems with the surface. Velasquez had him tucked in on the rail in the first turn, well placed along the inside on the backside, saved ground on the turn, split horses at the three-sixteenths, charged to the lead a furlong out and drew clear under a vigorous hand ride.
With the $1,420,000 from the BC Mile, Kip Deville has earned a total of $2,434,422 for a record of 9 wins from 21 starts. 7 of his wins are from 15 starts on the turf for $2,393,660 of his overall earnings.
Oklahoma Derby at Remington Park
Coming off an exciting win in the Super Derby (GII) at Louisiana Downs one month ago, Going Ballistic authoritatively won the $300,000 Centennial Oklahoma Derby at Remington Park. Owned by Kindred Thoroughbreds, LLC (Michael Kindred and Mary Alice Kubes-Kindred of Dallas, Texas) and trained by Donnie K. Von Hemel (Piedmont, Oklahoma), Going Ballistic became the first horse to win both the Remington-MEC Mile and the Oklahoma Derby, the racetrack’s premier events for 2- and 3-year-olds, respectively. In the 1 1/8-mile Oklahoma Derby, the Florida-bred colt by Lite the Fuse out of the Holy Bull mare Holy Lightning, settled well off the pace on the backstretch. Going Ballistic was sixth as the 11-horse field entered the second turn. Jockey Timothy Doocy angled wide, gained the lead in mid-stretch and pulled away to win with ease by more than 3 lengths. Going Ballistic has won six (five stakes) of 17 career starts and earned more than $850,000.
Magazine Ranks Remington Among Best in Country
It’s official. Remington Park is back running with the big dogs, er, horses. That accolade was bestowed on the local oval by HorsePlayer magazine. According to the respected publication, Remington is the fifth-best thoroughbred track in the United States to get “the most bang for your buck.” With statistical input from Equibase Company and Bloodstock Research Information Services, two agencies the horse racing industry relies on for most of its numbers, HorsePlayer analyzed data from 48 tracks across the nation, ranking each in categories ranging from entries in each race, average payout per winning wager and percentage of winning favorites. In all, 17 different categories were utilized in the study. “It was a fascinating task of polling fellow horseplayers to see what they felt was most important to their betting dollars, then collecting the data and watching the numbers unfold,” said Jeremy Plonk, editor of HorsePlayer. “A few surprises popped up in the final tally, which produced a unique blend of major, middle and minor-level racing. We look forward to crunching the numbers again and making this a much-needed, annual shopping list for North America’s horse-playing public.” Scott Wells, the general manager and vice president of the Oklahoma City facility, said: “This is a tremendous honor for Remington Park. Everyone involved with Remington deserves credit due to their outstanding efforts. Thanks to the casino and higher purses, we’re seeing better horses, and that is helping us put Remington back on the map as one of the premier horse racing facilities in the country.” None of the Triple Crown tracks — the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Lexington, Ky.; the Preakness in Baltimore; and the Belmont Stakes in New York — are on the list for the best places to lay down money. In fact, Churchill Downs’ sister track in Lexington, Keeneland, is ranked No. 1. Evangeline Downs in Lafayette, La., is No. 2. No other track in Louisiana, including Louisiana Downs in Shreveport, is mentioned. The other two locales rated above Remington are two mega-metro magnets, No. 3 Del Mar in California and No. 4 Gulfstream Park in Florida. Two notables Remington is rated higher than are No. 6 Saratoga in New York and No. 8 Santa Anita in Los Angeles. “Remington’s advantages are because of its average field size and that it has races at night both on the (main) track and on the turf,” Plonk said. “A lot of tracks do not have lights, so that makes Remington prime-time (for nationwide simulcast betters) in the evenings. Also (with casino gambling and higher purses), it’s been a rebirth of Remington. They’re not only moving up the ladder, they’re moving in the right direction.” Around the track •Remington Park is open daily at 10 a.m. for simulcast wagering. Post times for live racing today through Saturday are 6:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. Sunday. •Belen Quinonez took his mount, Ecton’s Monster, to the front right out of the gate in Sunday’s $27,000 optional claiming feature and never relinquished the lead. The 3-year-old is trained by Lynn Chleborad and paid $10.80 on a win ticket. •Belly Button Dawn obviously loves a 5-furlong race on turf. The Florida-bred filly blew away the competition in Saturday’s $28,000 feature. Trained by Bret Calhoun and ridden by Ramsey Zimmerman, she won by more than 6 lengths. The victory was her fourth straight over the same distance and surface.
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